When we think about fantasy writing, we’re often transported to worlds where mythical beasts reign and spells abound. But how many fantasy books have you read set in North London, with a teenage protagonist who is half Greek goddess?! Today, we’ll hear from Alexandra Sheppard, author of the new fantasy novel Oh My Gods (and this month’s guest judge!) on how to approach the fantasy genre with fresh ideas and an open mind. Alexandra also offers her take on the importance of being part of a writing community that will be there to offer feedback and celebrate your successes.
Your novel Oh My Gods was released this year. Can you tell us a bit about the story and your inspiration for writing it?
OMGs is about Helen Thomas who is, in many ways, your average fourteen-year-old… apart from the tiny fact that she is half Greek goddess. Her dad is Zeus, her big sister is Aphrodite and she’s just moved into their new home in North London. In order to stay on earth, the gods need to keep their true identity secret. But when the lure of fame beckons, it’s up to Helen to rein in her chaotic family before they blow their cover (and any chance of a normal social life for her).
I’ve always loved Greek mythology and teen diary novels; OMGs is a marriage of the two. I first got the idea of gods on earth when I watched an old Rita Hayworth film called Down to Earth. She plays the Goddess of Dance who, after finding out that a Broadway producer will make a mockery of Greek mythology in his next play, disguises herself as a mortal actress so she can intervene. The film isn’t all that great. But it did introduce me to the idea of Greek gods on earth: powerful, beautiful, immortal beings that are just as petty and dysfunctional as the rest of us. I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
What advice do you have for writers who have never written a fantasy story before?
I think the same advice applies no matter the genre. Make sure you know your world inside out, even if that information doesn’t end up in the story. Writing fantasy doesn’t necessarily mean inventing a new world from scratch—although you can create a new language or design a world map unique to your story if you really want to. But fantasy does involve surreal elements, and they need to make sense to the reader.
We’ve seen so many fantasy stories set in medieval castles, elvish forests and far-off planets. But why can’t the secret portal to enter this world be a school locker, the stairwell of an apartment block or even the microwave? The fantasy genre is stuffed with well-worn tropes. How can you do something fresh that feels unique?
You’re part of a writing critique group. In what ways has being part of this group helped your writing?
My writing group was instrumental in my success as a writer. Meeting up with a supportive group of writers every month kept me accountable and made sure I actually sat down to write. We’re a diverse bunch in terms of our writing styles—together we cover YA fiction, literary fiction, non-fiction essays, poetry and journalism—which is so useful. It means that the people giving me feedback are approaching my writing with fresh perspectives. While it’s useful to get feedback from friends and family, nothing compares to a solid critique from a fellow writer.
Most importantly, my writing group feels like a real community. Writing can be a solitary game, so we lift up one another when times are tough and celebrate our successes.
What are you looking for in a winning fantasy entry?
I won’t know until I see it! But I’d love to see fantasy that injects magic into the mundane. And I’m a sucker for a nuanced, flawed protagonist with a solid character arc.
What advice do you have for young writers who are hoping to turn writing into a career someday?
Sit down and write. Nothing happens unless you do this. It sounds boring and obvious but it’s the most important bit of advice any writer can give.