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 When did you first think about becoming a writer?
When I was about 13 I started writing lots of poems. I continued to do this until I was in my 30's when we had our son Oli, then I started telling lots of bedtime stories which I loved. However, I decided to actually write a story when I became very concerned about climate change. So I wrote and illustrated my first book, 'Who Will Save Us?'. It has been written for all the children of the world. I thought they might like to share it with their adults, and together they can help keep this planet the wonderful place that it is.
Your book 'Who Will Save Us' is set in the snowy Antarctic. Do you like winter and the colder, snowy parts of the year?
I love all the wonderful seasons and I really enjoy the arrival of each one, and experiencing all the colours, changing shapes and moods.I think snow and ice are incredibly magical and exciting, and as long as I am wrapped up warm, messing about in the cold, crystal air is great.
Do you have a favourite place where you work?
We have a very busy life, so writing is often quite tricky to fit in regularly. Therefore, I find myself grabbing moments and scrawling on scraps of paper my ideas and thoughts. However, if I especially need to get something down on paper, I have to find a quiet space. This may be in the still ends of the day, when I sit in bed or at our kitchen table writing, sometimes in the middle of the night.
Where do you get your ideas from?
My ideas come from everywhere. I am a great observer of people and the natural environment. I also really like to feel what I am writing, and of course painting since this is my lifestyle too. So, often I will think myself into the situation I want to write or paint about, including using body postures. If I struggle to get in the mood, I write or paint with my other hand. This really helps me connect with thoughts and emotions.
Do you have any favourite children's authors or books?
I love magical stories, and those with a heart felt message. I like stories with characters you can really connect with and know how they are feeling. So there are many books I love, including a few lines spoken or written in a particular moment by people young and old.
Are you working on a new book now?
I have started a new story and have many ideas, however, 'Who Will Save Us?' is taking up all my time. This is because my husband, John, and I have published it ourselves. We wanted to make sure it was made in a way which was as kind on the environment as possible, and that it reached many children and young people, so they can help with climate change. We have also set up 'The Who Will Save Us? Children's and Young People's Project'. In this project, children/young people are able to work together and practice their citizenship skills. As a group, they have a budget to spend in order to help with climate change issues. This budget is raised by their schools and groups buying and selling the books to make a profit. To get involved in the project, contact us at www.rebeccamorch.co.uk.
Have you any advice for young writers in Devon?
My advice to young writers is to write using all of you. By this I mean, really think and feel what you want to say, and try using your other hand to write. You may be interested to know that I have dyslexia. When I was young I used to think of something really powerful to write and then realise I could not spell it, so I would change it and ruin the story. Therefore, don't let spelling stop you, or any tricky thing stop you. Ask for help and keep asking until you get it! You could also try finding another way, like drawing your message if you can't spell the word or if you can't think of the right word. Have Fun!
With best wishes, Rebecca
We wish Rebecca every success with her book and all future ones too. I love penguins and I really care about them ….sure you do too!
Further information on Climate Change can be found by following the link.
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