Today I picked up the People’s Friend Spring Special. Full of fabulous stories, knitting, puzzles, articles and all things I love in a magazine. So far I’ve read Pat’s story – Daffodil Days. It’s lovely, Pat, you write a brilliant story. The picture is lovely as well, colourful and goes well with your story. Looking forward to reading more of those.
I realise when reading these why my stories aren’t being accepted YET. I’m having great fun doing the research though, I know what makes a good P.F. story. In my research I will say that most stories begin with speech. Often the characters are eating or drinking, and they favour first person narrative. Also, there’s always a problem. (Get me, I’m going on like a writing tutor)
Eg. “What d’you think we should do about that old piano of Mum’s then Sadie?” Carrie licked jam off her fingers from the large doughnut she finished in a gulp.
“Well, seeing as it needs tuning, and she doesn’t play it anymore, I’d say we could advertise it in the Gazette.” Sadie stirred her tea, and shook her dark curls into place as she glanced round the coffee shop.
“She’d never agree to that.” Carrie frowned. Typical of her sister. She hadn’t an ounce of feeling for the old piano, when it had been in the family for generations. One of them had to have it, and it was looking obvious which one it was going to be……..
Now, as I haven’t had any stories accepted yet by P.F. I’m no expert, but on openings, I can say that we have to identify with one of the characters at least, and maybe see the point of the others as well. The stories always have a gentle theme, and are family orientated. So; what am I waiting for, I need to go and write about a piano…..
Susan Jones - Writer 
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