Chris Vick, author of 'Kook,' shared insights about his writing journey and passion for young adult literature during a recent discussion. He attributes his inspiration for the novel to a combination of personal experience and the teachings from his Master’s program in Writing for Young People at Bath Spa University. Vick emphasized the importance of finding one's voice and writing authentically about personal experiences.
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"It was the work that was closest to my own experiences that worked best," he explained, noting that his writing was influenced by memories of his youth spent in the water and the thrill of first love. Although his characters are based on his experiences, he indicated that they are also fictionalized, combining real life with imaginative storytelling.
Vick’s passion for surfing plays a significant role in his writings. He is already incorporating this theme in his upcoming novel, 'Storms,' though he describes the surfing aspect as secondary to the character development and plot. In this sequel, he explores themes of love and responsibility through the lens of surfing, presenting a story about balancing freedom and real-life obligations.
When asked about his literary influences, Vick mentioned authors such as David Almond and Meg Rosoff as key inspirations, along with his mentors from the Bath Spa MA program, who encouraged him to engage deeply with setting and character.
Vick is also dedicated to animal conservation, specifically marine life. His interest was sparked by the book 'Whale Nation' by Heathcote Williams, which highlights the importance of whales and dolphins. He works part-time for the Whale and Dolphin Conservation, focusing on initiatives to end whaling and protect marine environments.
On the creative process, Vick acknowledged that various art forms influence his writing, including poetry and music. He pointed out that music serves as a backdrop during his writing sessions, helping him to focus and shape the tone of his work.
Although he always had an inclination to write, Vick noted that it was not until a pivotal moment when he committed to writing daily that he truly pursued this path. He remarked on the competitive nature of the publishing industry but emphasized that writing itself is a rewarding experience, regardless of initial setbacks.
In addition to continuing his work on 'Storms,' Vick expressed interest in exploring poetry and short stories in the future, aiming to weave together a collection of sea-related narratives.
'Kook' is currently featured in a teen book club, highlighting its relevance and appeal in contemporary youth literature.