Siobhán McCormack is a New York Times bestselling author of four novels for young adults, two books for children and a collection of bedtime stories.
Her books have been published in over twenty countries, translated into dozens of languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. In 2014, she won the CBI Book of the Year Award for her children's novel The Midnight Carnival.
Her debut young adult novel Compared To A Seed won Irish Book of the Year 2017 at the An Post Irish Book Awards. Her latest release The Dandelion Clock has been shortlisted for the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature in 2020.
Siobhán currently lives in Co. Limerick with her partner Sam and their calico cat Delilah.
Q: Do you have any tips on how to become a writer?
A: In general, the advice I always give is this: if you want to write, write. Whether it’s a novel, a poem, a journal entry or a to-do list, the best way to get started is to put pen to paper. I’m a traditionalist, so when I set out to write a new novel, I get a brand new A4 notebook and start scribbling away. I like being able to cross things out, add notes in the margins, underline, circle and highlight. Others may find it easier (and cleaner) to use a laptop. Whatever suits you, give yourself five or ten minutes every day to write. For more tips check out my Resources page.
Q: How can I get past writer’s block?
A: Similar to my advice on how to get started, I would also say the key to getting past writer’s block is to just keep writing. I know it sounds absurd, but if you allow yourself to stop writing when you hit an obstacle, you reinforce the idea in your mind that you cannot write. The truth is, you can. Even if it’s utter nonsense, you should continue as if your writing will win the Pulitzer. And one day you’ll wake up and realise that you have worked through your creative drought and you will fall in love with writing once more. Again, take a look at the Resources page where I have curated all my favourite articles, videos and podcasts on writing.
Q: How can I contact you?
A: You can send any post care of my publisher - Haphazard Publishing House, 1234 Boyne Avenue, Rathfield, Dublin 4. Alternatively, you can use the Contact page to submit a query through this website.
Q: I would like to interview you for my magazine/radio show/tv programme – who can I contact?
A: Please address media and publicity inquiries to my campaign managers at Haphazard Publishing. See Contact page for full details.
Q: Can you visit my city on your tour?
A: I try to change up my stops on each tour but unfortunately, I can’t get to everyone. We do our best to cover as much ground as possible. Please visit the Events page for the most up-to-date information.