Arkay Jones
The Querulous Effect is a new book and a new experience for me – my first children’s novel, in fact my first novel of any kind. The primary aim is to engage and entertain young readers with an absorbing adventure. But I’m also trying to demonstrate what a wonderful world we inhabit and how important it is to care for the natural world around us. Although aimed at youngsters from 9 upwards its short, bite-size chapters make it suitable to be read to 7-year-olds (with occasional explanation of vocabulary and science) – and I hope a few adults might also enjoy a relaxing read!
How much have your experiences with your grandchildren inspired you to write this book?
I’ve noted how much interest and enthusiasm they have shown for ecological and environmental topics at school. Today’s children with access to so much information are well able to engage with quite complicated concepts and a bit of mysterious science and intrepid travelling is always exciting.
Tell us about the character of Jay.
Since Jay effectively acts as observer/narrator, his character is left a little in the background compared with some of the other characters around him such as Tim, Ella, the Prof, Cosmo and the McDoons. However, as he develops through the book, he emerges as a well-grounded, resourceful young man, particularly since he has to cope away from family support through the adventure. Importantly he stands out as a loyal, grounded friend – friendship and reconciliation being other underlying themes in the book.
Who were your biggest influences when capturing the spirit of classic children’s literature?
I’d have to leave it to readers to decide if I have managed to capture any of that spirit. Thinking way back, I recall liking adventures centering on the children themselves such as ‘The Box of Delights’ by John Masefield and the Arthur Ransome books – and Herge’s Tin Tin has always been a hero.
What made you want to combine science and adventure in this story?
There had to be an adventure or quest to hold attention and modern science has such fascinating and mind-expanding possibilities that it provided the perfect hook for me.
What do you think your younger self would have made of this book?
Probably glad that, despite my years, I’ve still not quite grown up and amazed that I actually put pen to paper.
What is next for you?
More ideas and more writing if ‘The Querulous Effect’ finds some happy readers!