#134 :: Writing Intimidating Characters | David Gillham

I honestly think of a more intimidating character to write than Anne Frank Not only is she an actual historical figure, she's also known and beloved by generations who've begun writing diaries -as I did- after reading hers. David Gillham had an idea for a book based on Anne Frank but taking an alternative historical approach, one in which Anne survived the Holocaust along with her father. he set the project aside numerous times, worried it was just too difficult to complete, but the story wouldn't leave him alone. So after six years of research and immersion in Anne's life, Annelies, his novel is now out. David spoke with me about the challenge of taking on a fictional Anne Frank, how he tried to find her voice and write a version of her story that worked on the page. If you have shied away from a big challenge in your writing, or have ever been drawn in by writing historical characters but were afraid to start, you must hear this conversation. Happy listening!

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