Hollie spoke to Josie Shapiro about her stunning debut novel. An unforgettable debut about change, family and grit, and what it takes to achieve your dreams.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m married and a mum of two daughters, and we live on the North Shore with our little dog, Tess.
What author is a recent discovery for you?
I am late to the party, but that doesn’t spoil how much I’ve enjoyed discovering Annie Ernaux and Taylor Jenkins-Reid. Two writers with different styles that have given me food for thought about how books are created and enjoyed.
What are you currently reading?
I have three books on the go – I’m A Fan by Sheena Patel, The Riders by Tim Winton, and I was lucky to get an early reading copy of The Bone Tree by Airana Ngarewa (out in Aug).
What drew you to write about running opposed to another sport?
There seemed like a space to write about a female runner – I’d only read books about males. Then I read a quote by Alexi Pappas, ‘the marathon, like a good story, lures you in, takes you along if you are willing; all is nearly lost and then! The hero emerges victorious!’, and the narrative potential of running was clear.
Describe the feeling of when you found out that you were the winner of the A&U fiction prize.
I honestly couldn’t believe it. I have a habit of laughing when I should really be crying – I laughed and laughed and laughed. It was such an incredible feeling to win and to know that I would be published.
What is your relationship with running?
I stopped running about ten years ago, and even then I was a very average amateur. I wished I had run a marathon. This novel was a way of experiencing that without having to actually put on my sneakers and run. I am fully cured of any desire to run now, the book was true catharsis.
What is your writing routine?
When I am into something, I try to write as often as possible – at least every day. That way I’m immersed into the story and it ticks over in my head when I’m busy doing other things and good ideas float to mind.
What is your favorite snack to enjoy while writing?
Coffee and chocolate covered almonds