JaneShuff

There was, of course, no such thing as corporate manslaughter back then. But I did hear that after one Victorian accident (not this one) where the driver was charged with manslaughter, Punch published a cartoon showing a policeman collaring the driver and a director walking away, with the caption ‘Yes, you’ve got one. But you ought to have got…[Read more]

I’m not sure. An I remember exercise about a particular relationship would be something of a curiosity I think. I enjoyed writing these short pieces because they helped me remember the taste of the time rather than focusing on every intense flavour.

With such a litany of abysmal systems, irresponsible staff and wayward practices, it’s a wonder that a lot more than fifteen people weren’t killed. Not that that’s any consolation. The people who ran the show ought to have gone to prison for a very long time

Hah hah! Reading back, I think I maybe make it sound worse than it was. Despite all the tears and tantrums, it still felt like a privilege to sit down and create something with my words. I still knew this was what I wanted to do. Plus, I have a lovely agent who I knew would support me. At the time, it was all so new though, such a steep learning…[Read more]

It’s really hard to believe that somebody could send deliberately ridiculous/obstructive messages like Herbert John when lives were at stake (and I know he was only 18). That said, it’s a level of managerial incompetence and hubris that almost defies belief. Sadly, as the years go by it’s clear that more than cream floats to the top.

Another…[Read more]

Thanks for sharing this, Philippa. What a journey!
And I would just like to add, for the record, that while Philippa was going through all this, and working (and crying) so hard, she has continued to be ever-generous in giving support and encouragement to others. Much appreciated.

Someone on Jericho has suggested that the best way to pick up typos is to read the book backwards. Much though I hate typos, I’m not sure I hate them quite that much.

Kudos for sticking with it all, Philippa – it sounds like it has really taken a toll over this year.

Looking forward very much to reading it – I am sure that it will be worth every bead of sweat, nibbled fingernail and tear shed.

And if it makes you feel better – Tilda’s just been published and even though we went through all the pages,…[Read more]

Hah hah, yeah! Well, I suppose I could have not bothered reading the page proofs and just left it to the proof reader. But when I asked other authors, they all advised checking myself, saying I would KICK myself down the line if I spotted typos I could have caught! TBH though, I’ll take page proofs over structural edits any day!

O.M.F.G.

On top of all of that you have to deal with page proofs? I had fondly imagined that at least would be the publisher’s job. They certainly make you earn your crust, don’t they?

Thank you (I think) for this insight into the process. Before I smash my computer and run screaming for the hills, I must congratulate you on seeing it all…[Read more]