I’d like to begin by expressing just how much I enjoyed reading Past the Shallows – I was absolutely enthralled by every single character and felt so moved by each of their actions. I especially related to the three brothers and found myself so deeply invested in learning more about their dynamic relationship as a trio. Something that I found particularly interesting was the stark contrast in how Miles and Joe approached responsibility. As the eldest, Joe was expected to take care of Miles and Harry but eventually left them in their father’s “care” while he moved out with Grandad. This left me feeling conflicted as I wanted him to protect his brothers but also himself at the same time. In what ways do you think Joe’s departure effected Miles and Harry? Is it possible that Joe leaving may have motivated Miles to stay and protect Harry? Miles could have easily fled, leaving Harry subject to his father’s abuse, so why is it that he stayed? Looking forward to your answer!

Thank you,

Melony :)

Thank you so much for this opportunity of offering to answer our questions about your book Past the Shallows, it truly blew me away how connected I felt to the characters and the strong personalities you formed in each and every one of them. I honestly found the book so hard to put down, I finished it in 2 days! One character relationship in particular that constantly had my attention was Harry and George, their bond was so unique and pure. It also made me weak at the knees how George was that escape for Harry, he went there to get away and forget about his abusive environment back home. Although I found myself constantly asking, Who was George to the family? 

Another relationship that completely amazed me was Miles and Harry, they were so strong for what they faced daily. Harry until the end put up with his dads neglect with the support of Miles constantly by his side. Was their Dad just paranoid that Harry was uncle Nicks or was it true?

Looking forward to hearing your answers!

Thank you, 

Lola 

 Thanks for taking the time to listen to and answer our questions. I was wondering more about the backstories of the characters especially Dad. The major questions I had were what happened to Dad as he was never found after the death of Harry and how Dad was involved in Mum and Uncle Nick’s car crash. I was also wondering about George’s disappearances after the boys stay there and how he never interjects with the Harry and Mile’s lives even though he knows about the tough situation they’re in. Once again thank you very much, I absolutely loved the book and I find it very hard to find books I enjoy reading. 

 

Cheers, Joe 

I really enjoyed reading your novel and it’s a great opportunity and privilege to ask the author questions about the book were analysing in class. I have a question about the book that maybe you can answer. 

I was intrigued by the brotherly bond Harry and Miles possessed. They were always looking out for each other and keeping one another safe. In saying that I felt a little anger towards the oldest brother Joe thinking he could have done more to protect Harry and Miles as he knew the situation they were in and was old enough to keep them safe from their fathers wrath. Which leads me to my question of why you chose to characterise Joe in that particular way. 

Thank you for answering our questions. I really enjoyed your novel. I was wondering what your motivation behind writing the book was? Are the characters based off anyone?
Thanks 

Thank you for taking time out of your day to respond and answer our questions! I’d first like to say I greatly enjoyed the book and was not able to to get the tragic ending out of my head! 

I was just wondering where you drew inspiration from to create each individual character. I understand that Harry was inspired from your younger brother but was wondering about the other characters? Did you see yourself or someone else you know in any of the characters?
Thanks for your time!

 

Alex

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. I had so much fun reading the novel, and felt a whole mix of emotions. I am aware that the novel is inspired by personal experiences and I find that gives the story a beautiful essence. Characters are relatable and I found myself empathizing with each character in some way.

I would like to know more about your intentions when writing Past the Shallows. How did you picture your audience to feel, or react, whilst reading the novel? And were past events, particularly Dad’s abusive actions towards the boys, intended to foreshadow Harry’s death? What effect did you wish to have on the audience through the traumatic loss of the boys' mother, in addition to their father's abusive persona? 

Hanna