A Q&A Interview with Kimberly Whittam

The story of a young girl growing in confidence as she develops into an athlete, Kimberly Whittam’s debut novel Quiet Storm is attracting appreciative reviews from readers and reviewers. Kimberly answered our questions about the book and her intentions for it.

Quiet Storm is your debut novel. What inspired you to write the book and how did the idea come about?

The idea for Quiet Storm came from working in a secondary school. I wanted to give quieter children the opportunity to see themselves in books. It was important for me to show shy children that they are worthy of being the main character too.

How has your work in secondary education helped with your writing?

Being around young people every day has definitely helped with my writing. Hearing their conversations and how they interact with each other has been key to making the school setting in Quiet Storm realistic. Working in a secondary school also fuels my passion to write books set in Manchester. I want my students to see themselves in stories.

Why did you choose the name Storm?

When you’re shy, you are given a persona that you don’t have much to offer. There are so many bad connotations to being quiet. I wanted a name that reflected how complex and powerful my main character is. The name came very early on in thinking of my story and once it was in my head, I had to keep writing.

It’s rare in young people’s books to find such lively parents, and they’re very supportive and understanding. Are they based on anyone you know?

Storm’s family are my favourite characters in Quiet Storm. I think family really do make the difference in lifting you up and making you feel confident. Young people can become embarrassed by their parents, but Storm appreciates them and all they do for her.

Storm helps Ryan to find an outlet for his frustration. Do many of the students you work with find a special interest?

Having a special interest is often crucial in keeping children like Ryan on track. When a young person is struggling in lessons, one way to motivate them is to find a special interest that they can focus on. It provides an opportunity for purpose and praise. Ryan’s musical interest makes him feel included in the school community and every child should have the opportunity to feel like they belong.

Storm hates sharing a bedroom with Isaiah – how important is it for young people to have their own space?

Storm needs her own space so she can have time to process her emotions. Because she finds social situations hard, she can feel overwhelmed. It’s important for her to be able to unwind and bring herself back to a calm frame of mind.

Running, winning, and new friends finally give Storm the confidence to speak up. How else might young people get out of unsuitable friendships?

Year 7 often sees friendship fallouts because those friendships are new. Sometimes it happens naturally and cordially and other times it can become an ordeal for those involved. If young people are having a hard time with friendships, I would advise speaking to a teacher or parent for advice. I always tell students that before they can be a friend to anyone else, they have to be a friend to themselves first. Learning how to be assertive and stick up for yourself is an important skill to develop.

Are you a runner?

I used to run as a child but I stopped when I started secondary school. I think a lack of female athlete role models played a big factor in giving up the sport. I started a running club last year and I recently completed a 5K which I’m very pleased about! Now I just have to keep it up!

You have a two-book deal: what is your second book about?

My second book is set in a secondary school, like Quite Storm, however the main character is very different to Storm. Without giving too much away, it’s about second chances.

Do you have more books in production, or in your head?

I have a few more ideas that I want to explore. I’m very grateful that my stories are being published and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Kimberly has a degree in English with Linguistics and a Masters degree in Inclusive Education and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. She currently works in secondary education and is passionate about giving young people in Manchester space on the bookshelf.

Twitter: @KimberlyWhittam Instagram: Kimberly_whittam

Quiet Storm by Kimberly Whittam is published by Usborne Publishing, 978-1803708065, £7.99 pbk.

Thank you to Diana Barnes for the questions.