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Ten Minutes with Natalie Hibberd , author of Inside Out



Not too long ago I was asked if I'd like to take part in the blog tour for Natalie Hibberd's debut novel, Inside Out. As soon as the book was pitched to me, I knew I'd not only be interested to do that, but that I'd love to get to read the book (which is awaiting on my neverending TBR pile).  Allow me to give you the pitch of the book that raised my interest: 

In a divisive world of mistrust and murder, there’s only one thing that matters growing up: you’re either in The Inside or The Outside. 
While the Insiders appear pampered and privileged, the Outsiders know only harsh realities. Believing themselves to be needlessly deprived of everything the Insiders have, the younger generation channel their rage into a terrorist group called The Freedom Fighters, a group intent on overthrowing the Inside at any cost. Now the Insiders must watch as the world they love collapses around them while the government resort to increasingly desperate tactics to try and contain the Outside threat. When the latest initiative catapults one of the young into the heart of the war, everything is pushed to breaking point.
 Loyalties will be tested. Lives will be risked. Their worlds will change forever.



Ten minutes with Natalie Hibberd

1. Can you summarise Inside Out in 5 words?

A divisive, entertaining YA thriller!
2. How does it feel to be publishing your first book?

Besides for the impending arrival of my first niece or nephew, I have never felt more excited about anything in my life. I’ve wanted to be an author since I was two years old There have been many, many incoherent squeals of joy and dances around the living room!

3. Do you want your readers to pick a ‘side’ in Inside Out?

It’s entirely up to them! Once I’d finished the first draft, I shared parts of the story with those close to me and I liked to lay bets with myself over which, if any, side they would take. There was a broad spectrum of responses – which was fascinating. There aren’t any right or wrong answers, so each reader will have to make up their own mind.

4. Who was the first person to read Inside Out?

My mum, Carol. When I was younger, I told her endless sagas about the main characters in the book as they (and I) grew up. Once I’d set down the final full stop on the first full length Inside Out adventure, there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to share it with her first. Luckily, I think she was pleased!

5. Whatis your earliest memory of reading?

Although I’ve loved books all my life, it was actually something of a struggle for me to learn to read to myself. It took quite a while, so my earliest reading memories are of being read aloud to by my parents and grandparents.

6. How do you treat yourself after a day (or hour!) of writing?

I love reading but when I’m feeling drained from writing I often turn to audiobooks as a way of relaxing. I also love having cuddles with my dog and singing along to Country music!

7. What are you currently reading?

The Girl In Red by Christina Henry. It’s an amazing book but difficult to describe! A twisted retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. Gripping and beautifully written.

8. What are you working on at the moment, will there be a sequel to Inside Out?

Given how the book ends (no spoilers here!) I think I’d be in BIG trouble if there wasn’t
one. Inside Out is actually a series and I’ve just started work on the third book. I’m also working on a children’s story – which I’m incredibly excited about.

9. Which is your House at Hogwarts?

I’m a very proud Hufflepuff! The quality that defines that house is loyalty, which is a big theme in Inside Out.

10. Harry had Hedwig. If you went to Hogwarts what animal would you take?

My beloved dog Cleo. She is my best friend and also happens to be a recently qualified disability Support Dog. I literally couldn’t cope without her. According to Hogwarts rules dogs are not listed as acceptable pets for students but cats are – so in the interests of equality I would campaign for a change in the rules! If all else fails, I’ll just have to claim she’s an Animagus. 


Inside Outis officially out on November 30th and you can find Natalie here: https://twitter.com/NatalieHibberd

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