Paula Sheridan On How To Write A Book That Sparks A Movement
An Interview With Jake Frankel
Embrace Authenticity: Movements are born from narratives that resonate on a profound, authentic level. As writers, it is essential to tap into the depths of our own lived experiences, our vulnerabilities, and our unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices that have been silenced or marginalized. When we write from a place of radical honesty and truth, our words carry the power to forge unbreakable connections with readers, inviting them to bear witness to the universal truths that bind us all as members of the human family.
As part of my series about “How to write a book that sparks a movement” I had the pleasure of interviewing Paula Sheridan.
Paula Sheridan is an award-winning entrepreneur, novelist, screenwriter, and author who grew up in South Africa before whisking her young son to England where she lived until ten years ago when her and her husband moved to Spain for him to retire and her to write. Instead, Paula started Secret World Writing Retreat and Page Turner Awards, which was created to help writers get their work recognized. In between running three online businesses, she squeezes in her writing projects.
Paula has been blessed with eight business awards, she won a UK Film Council Bursary, and she has achieved bestseller status for both her fiction and non-fiction works. Her debut novel, “The Grotto’s Secret,” won the People’s Book Prize.
Though she was born Paula Hawkins (not to be confused with the author of “The Girl on the Train”) and has also written novels under the name Paula Wynne, Paula likes to joke that there are three Paula's wriggling around inside her. Regardless of the name on the byline, Paula’s unwavering goal remains the same: to craft narratives that inspire, uplift, and remind us of our shared humanity.
Thank you so much for joining us! Can you share the “backstory” of how you grew up?
I grew up in South Africa during the turbulent era of apartheid, surrounded by the stark contrasts of beauty and injustice that defined that time. I was deeply impacted by the resilience and quiet courage of those who lived under the weight of oppression. One such individual was Penrose Matsile, a man who became a beloved grandfather figure to me, despite the laws that sought to strip him of his identity and humanity. Witnessing Penrose’s unwavering spirit and the way he found belonging within our family, left an indelible mark on me.
Storytelling has always been my passion. I still remember when my mother, grandmother, and Penrose, would read me adventure tales at bedtime, transporting me to magical worlds that ignited my imagination. Those cherished moments opened my eyes to the power of stories to inspire us and bring people together. Of course, I’d always try to bargain for just one more story before lights out!
As a child, I always looked forward to the times my parents would go out and leave my eldest sister to babysit me and my younger siblings. We’d turn over the claw-footed antique coffee table and position me, my brother and two sisters at each one of the legs. Hanging on for dear life, we would fly off to faraway lands for adventures vividly told from our active imaginations.
The folks never knew what caused all those scratches on the precious coffee table! (Sorry Mom!) But we sure had some wild adventures over the years that became a bit too enthusiastic!
When you were younger, was there a book that you read that inspired you to take action or changed your life? Can you share a story?
Growing up in South Africa, I was hooked at an early age with the exciting worlds created by Enid Blyton in her Famous Five, Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys series. From there, I cut my teeth on beloved South African classics like Jock of the Bushveld and Cry, the Beloved Country before encountering The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Anne of Green Gables And To Kill a Mockingbird.
I hadn’t thought of it this way until now, answering this question, but perhaps after reading these timeless tales that delve deep into the heart of humanity, I learnt valuable lessons about empathy, courage, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. Witnessing the injustices around me possibly forced me to mature and challenge my understanding of the world.
What was the moment or series of events that made you decide to bring your message to the greater world? Can you share a story about that?
The pivotal moment that solidified my decision to share Penrose Matsile’s remarkable story with the world came when I recalled promising him to write his story. Although the promise was made when I was first learning about creative writing, it took several decades before I got around to writing about his life journey.
As I wrote more and more of the anecdotes of his life, I was struck by the realization that this extraordinary man, who was such an integral part of my life and identity, had lived nearly eight decades without ever knowing his own birthday or place of birth. The weight of his lifelong quest for identity and belonging became a profound call to action.
I am now determined that his powerful narrative of resilience and self-discovery should not be lost to the sands of time. Penrose’s story deserves to be heard to serve as a reminder of the indomitable human spirit, and that our true identities are not defined by circumstances, but by the indelible marks we leave on the hearts of those who love us most.
What impact did you hope to make when you wrote this book?
n writing “Finding Penrose,” my deepest hope was to create a narrative that would serve as a profound celebration of our shared humanity — a story that would resonate across boundaries of race, culture, and personal experience.
At its core, Penrose’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and the unwavering quest for self-discovery and belonging. These are universal themes that touch the depths of the human experience, reminding us of our inherent interconnectedness.
Through this book, I hope to evoke a sense of empathy and understanding, inviting readers to walk in Penrose’s footsteps and bear witness to the triumphs and challenges that shaped his remarkable life.
Ultimately, my greatest aspiration is for “Finding Penrose” to serve as a catalyst for reflection, a call to embrace our authentic selves, and a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and the unbreakable bonds that transcend even the darkest of times. It would be amazing if people the world over could see how someone in Penrose’s shoes would have lived. Yet instead of fighting back with violence and hatred, he confronted the world with loyalty and love. My mantra is to show people that “courage comes from within” so anyone feeling downtrodden can stand tall like Penrose did, despite being a small man, and to know that no matter the color of our skin, our footprints in the sand are all the same color.
Did the actual results align with your expectations? Can you explain?
The impact and resonance that “Finding Penrose” has achieved thus far have far exceeded my initial expectations. While I had hoped to create a narrative that would resonate on a profound level, the outpouring of support and the depth of connection readers have expressed with Penrose’s story have been truly humbling. Even celebs and film producers have recognized the universal themes and cinematic potential within the pages. It’s become clear that Penrose’s journey has struck a chord that transcends boundaries.
What moment let you know that your book had started a movement? Please share a story.
Perhaps most poignantly, so many of my family have started sharing their memories of Penrose, which has not only validated the power of his story but has also reinforced the enduring legacy Penrose has left — a legacy of courage, compassion, and the profound impact one life can have on generations to come.
And it’s encouraging when film producers explain what they love about Penrose’s story, and how important his story is even in today’s world where the same issues are still creeping to the surface. It really does beg the question “Will humanity ever learn?”
What kinds of things did you hear right away from readers? What are the most frequent things you hear from readers about your book now? Are they the same? Different?
When celebrities like Tumi Morake and Ruby Barker told me “Finding Penrose is a beautiful story to tell” and journalist Pulane Chaka said “The story, being based on someone’s actual experiences, is a beautiful way to share the struggles that were faced” it showed me that the majority of readers will feel the same. Novelist, Laureate of the Golden Aster Award for Global Literature 2020, Pramudith D. Rupasinghe said the star is a “sensibly penned timeless story of resilience and fragility of being human.”
So many responses are focused primarily on the emotional resonance of the story, but it also reflects the broader movement that “Finding Penrose” will spark — a movement centered around embracing our authentic selves, amplifying marginalized voices, and using the power of storytelling as a catalyst for positive change.
What is the most moving or fulfilling experience you’ve had as a result of writing this book? Can you share a story?
One of the most profoundly moving experiences I’ve had as a result of writing “Finding Penrose” is the opportunity to connect with individuals who face similar struggles and adversities as Penrose, and to hear how his unwavering spirit has uplifted readers while others are inspired by this life journey.
It still amazes me that with each edit I do on either the novel or the screenplay, there are scenes that still bring tears and choke me up with emotions. The realization of how much quiet courage Penrose had in his daily life makes me even more determined to ensure his story is heard to a wide global audience through both the book and the film quest I am working on.
Have you experienced anything negative? Do you feel there are drawbacks to writing a book that starts such colossal conversation and change?
While the response to “Finding Penrose” has been overwhelmingly positive and inspiring, there may come a time when I’ll encounter resistance or skepticism, particularly from those who may have feel threatened by the book’s central themes of self-acceptance, amplifying marginalized voices, and challenging systemic injustices.
In no way am I pointing fingers at anyone or any government. The story is all about an extraordinary man and how his life was lived through courage and hope. There is nothing negative about that. It’s such an uplifting and positive story that it should inspire others to
foster empathy and understanding.
Despite my hopes for these positive reactions, I do realize that there are still deep-rooted prejudices against color, cultures and religion that still permeate our society, and the immense work that still needs to be done to create a more inclusive and just world.
However, I don’t view these negative experiences as drawbacks, but rather as opportunities for growth and dialogue. They reinforce the importance of continuing to share stories that challenge the status quo, that shine a light on the voices that have been silenced, and that encourage us to confront our own biases and preconceived notions.
Ultimately, any truly transformative movement or conversation will inevitably encounter resistance, for it is often those who are most comfortable with the status quo who fear change the most. But it is through perseverance, through continuing to amplify the narratives that demand to be heard, that we can begin to break down barriers and foster greater understanding and empathy.
In that sense, the negative experiences serve as a reminder that the work is far from finished, and that the power of storytelling must be wielded with unwavering commitment and courage, for it is through these narratives that true, lasting change can take root.
Can you articulate why you think books in particular have the power to create movements, revolutions, and true change?
Books possess a unique and profound power to create movements, revolutions, and true change because they serve as portals into the depths of the human experience. Through the written word, authors have the ability to transport readers into worlds they may never have encountered, to present perspectives that challenge their preconceived notions, and to foster a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
Unlike other forms of media, books require active engagement and imagination from the reader. They demand that we immerse ourselves fully in the narrative, drawing upon our own lived experiences and emotional reserves to connect with the characters and their journeys. In doing so, we are invited to step outside of our own personal bubbles and bear witness to the struggles, triumphs, and universal truths that bind us all as members of the human family.
Most importantly, books have the capacity to transcend boundaries of time, culture, and geography, allowing narratives to resonate across generations and inspire movements that span continents.
Ultimately, books have the power to change hearts and minds, to challenge us to confront our biases and prejudices, and to remind us of the unbreakable threads that connect us all. It is through this power that revolutions are born, movements are sparked, and true, lasting change becomes not only possible, but inevitable.
What is the one habit you believe contributed the most to you becoming a bestselling writer?
If I had to pinpoint the one habit that contributed most significantly to my journey as a bestselling writer, it would undoubtedly be perseverance. Writing, in any form, is a constant exercise in perseverance — persevering through self-doubt, rejection, the solace of writing, raising a family and the inevitable obstacles that arise when one dares to bring their creative vision to life.
When I stumbled upon the People’s Book Prize and on a whim, and with little expectation, I submitted my manuscript for my debut novel, “The Grotto’s Secret,” I was astonished to win. And it reignited my belief in the power of perseverance.
The desire to learn more about the craft of writing has also been my lighthouse. I have been driven to keep honing my craft, to embrace feedback and criticism as opportunities for growth, and to never lose sight of the profound impact that storytelling can have on hearts and minds.
In many ways, perseverance is the lifeblood of any writer’s journey, for it is through our unwavering commitment to our narratives, our willingness to weather the storms and emerge stronger, that we can truly leave an indelible mark on the lives of those who engage with our words.
What challenge or failure did you learn the most from in your writing career? Can you share the lesson(s) that you learned?
Firstly, I learned the importance of perseverance — the unwavering determination to keep pushing forward and learning as much as possible about the art of storytelling.
Secondly, I learned the art of humility and the willingness to embrace feedback and criticism as opportunities for growth. Each review and piece of feedback allowed me to refine my craft and develop a thicker skin — a necessary armor for any writer daring to share their work with the world.
Perhaps most importantly, this challenge reinforced the profound truth that our worth as storytellers is not defined by external validation or the opinions of others. It is rooted in our unwavering commitment to our narratives, our belief in the power of the written word to inspire, evoke empathy, and leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who engage with our words.
Thirdly, I learned that building a writer’s platform or more commonly known as a community of readers is one of the most important things a new writer must learn. We all embed ourselves in our writing life and only when it comes to book launch time that we suddenly realize that we should have started building our tribe, trope, clan, community — whatever we want to call it, we must start that early in our writing career.
Many aspiring authors would love to make an impact similar to what you have done. What are the 5 things writers need to know if they want to spark a movement with a book? (please include a story or example for each)
1. Embrace Authenticity: Movements are born from narratives that resonate on a profound, authentic level. As writers, it is essential to tap into the depths of our own lived experiences, our vulnerabilities, and our unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices that have been silenced or marginalized. When we write from a place of radical honesty and truth, our words carry the power to forge unbreakable connections with readers, inviting them to bear witness to the universal truths that bind us all as members of the human family.
Example: When I wrote “Finding Penrose,” I drew deeply from my personal experiences growing up in apartheid-era South Africa and my profound connection to Penrose Matsile, the extraordinary man who became a beloved grandfather figure to me. By fearlessly exploring the harsh realities he faced, the injustices that sought to strip him of his humanity, and the unwavering resilience he embodied, I was able to craft a narrative that resonated with readers on a visceral level. And people have reached out, sharing how Penrose’s story is inspiring and has moved and touched them.
2. Cultivate Empathy: At the core of any movement lies the ability to foster empathy and understanding. Through our narratives, we should strive to transport readers into worlds they may have never encountered, inviting them to walk in the footsteps of those whose experiences challenge their preconceived notions and biases. It is through this cultivation of empathy that we can begin to break down barriers, confront injustices, and create space for marginalized voices to be heard and celebrated.
Example: In crafting the character of Penrose, I was acutely aware of the importance of inviting readers to step into his world, to bear witness to the challenges, triumphs, and profound humanity that defined his remarkable journey. By immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of Penrose’s experiences, from the arid Savannah of colonial Africa to the vibrant tapestry of modern-day South Africa, I aimed to cultivate a deep sense of empathy and understanding. Walking in Penrose’s footsteps will challenge preconceptions, broadened perspectives, and inspire readers to become more actively engaged in amplifying marginalized voices within their own communities.
3. Embrace Discomfort: Sparking a movement often necessitates challenging the status quo, confronting deeply-rooted prejudices, and inviting readers to step outside of their comfort zones. As writers, we must be willing to embrace discomfort, to fearlessly explore themes and perspectives that may ruffle feathers or spark controversy. It is through this willingness to confront the uncomfortable truths that we can catalyze meaningful dialogue, inspire reflection, and ultimately, pave the way for positive change.
Example: In “Finding Penrose,” I deliberately chose to confront the harsh realities of apartheid, the systemic injustices that sought to dehumanize and marginalize entire communities. While these themes are undoubtedly uncomfortable and challenging for some readers, I firmly believe that it was essential to shine a light on these uncomfortable truths in order to spark meaningful dialogue and inspire change. The discomfort should be seen from Penrose’s point of view and how he lived a daily life with these kinds of issues, yet still remained loyal and steadfast in his love for our family — his family.
4. Persevere Through Adversity: Any movement worth its salt will inevitably face resistance, criticism, and adversity. As writers, we must develop a rhino skin. In other words, cultivate an unwavering sense of perseverance, a steadfast commitment to our narratives and the messages they carry, even in the face of rejection or opposition. It is through our resilience, our willingness to weather the storms and emerge stronger, that our words can truly take root and inspire lasting transformation.
Example: When I encounter any negative comments, I hope that I am able to embrace them as opportunities for growth, for fostering meaningful dialogue, and for reaffirming my commitment to amplifying the voices that demand to be heard. It’s through this unwavering belief in the power of Penrose’s story, that I will be able to weather the storms and ultimately inspire a broader movement centered around empathy, understanding, and the celebration of our shared humanity.
5. Harness the Power of Community: Ultimately, movements are not born in isolation; they are fueled by the collective efforts of communities united by a common purpose, a shared vision for a better world. As writers, we must strive to build and nurture these communities, fostering spaces where diverse voices can converge, where stories can be shared and celebrated, and where the seeds of change can germinate and take root. It is through the power of community that our narratives can transcend boundaries, spark conversations, and ignite the flames of transformation that will burn brightly for generations to come.
Example: From the very inception of “Finding Penrose,” I recognized the profound importance of cultivating a community of individuals who resonated with Penrose’s journey, who shared in the vision of amplifying marginalized voices and fostering greater empathy and understanding. It will be through the power of this community that “Finding Penrose” will evolve from a single narrative into a broader movement, sparking conversations, inspiring activism, and paving the way for lasting change that continues to ripple outward, touching lives and transcending boundaries.
The world, of course, needs progress in many areas. What movement do you hope someone (or you!) starts next? Can you explain why that is so important?
The world, of course, needs progress in many areas. One movement I passionately hope gains momentum is centered around fostering a deeper understanding and celebration of identity, promoting inclusion, and creating a more equitable sense of belonging for all.
In our increasingly globalized and interconnected world, issues of identity, displacement, and the quest to find one’s place are profoundly relevant and pervasive. From refugee crises and forced migrations to the marginalization of indigenous communities and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, countless individuals and groups continue to grapple with the fundamental human need to embrace their authentic selves and find a true sense of belonging.
A transformative movement focused on these issues could harness the power of storytelling to cultivate empathy, break down barriers, and challenge the systemic prejudices and injustices that have historically sought to strip people of their identities and deny them a sense of belonging.
By amplifying the narratives of those who have faced adversity, displacement, and the struggle to forge their own paths, we could inspire reflection, foster understanding, and create a more inclusive world where every individual is celebrated for their unique identity and welcomed into the fabric of our shared humanity.
How can our readers follow you on social media?
Readers can find me on https://linktr.ee/paulawynne
Thank you so much for these insights. It was a true pleasure to do this with you.
