Early Reading and Influences
Claire Fuller, the novelist, recalls her earliest reading memory at age five, when she would read a warning plaque on the coach upholstery: 'Mind your head when leaving your seat.' Her favourite book growing up was 'Phenomena' by John Michell, a collection of strange occurrences that gave her chills and a sense of wonder about the world.
A Teenage Epiphany
At 14, Fuller played Mrs Ogmore-Pritchard in a school production of Dylan Thomas's 'Under Milk Wood.' Reading the mellifluous words aloud made her understand that writing could evoke deep emotion. This experience was transformative, shaping her future as a writer.
Books That Changed Her
'Learning to Love You More' by Miranda July and Harrell Fletcher challenged Fuller with assignments, from simple tasks to public demonstrations. She discovered she loved the feeling of having completed them. Shirley Jackson's 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' made her want to be a writer, as she analysed how Jackson created the extraordinary Merricat.
Rediscovered Authors and Comfort Reads
Fuller initially dismissed Denis Johnson's 'Angels' but later fell in love with 'Train Dreams' and 'Jesus' Son,' making his books among her favourites. She keeps Richard Ford's 'Wildlife' on her desk as a reminder of good writing. Her comfort author is Elizabeth Strout, whose latest novel 'The Things We Never Say' she found delightful.
Classics and Current Reading
Having missed out on classics, Fuller decided to read one per year, starting with 'Pride and Prejudice,' which she enjoyed. She is currently reading 'The Stand' by Stephen King over the course of a year for her book club at the Cabinet Rooms in Winchester. She notes that while she loved 'Lonesome Dove' by Larry McMurtry, its 843 pages mean she won't reread it due to the many other books she wants to explore.
