The Three Writers I’d Invite to Dinner

Okay, for something a bit fun – I’ve been thinking about the three writers I’d invite to dinner, given the chance! It’s the kind of icebreaker question that I love.

Honestly, when I first saw this question I thought I’d have a harder time coming up with my answers. But actually, they came to mind reasonably quickly.

Perhaps because I recently had to get rid of a bunch of books, so I had to think pretty hard about which books I loved too much to even consider losing! Or maybe just because I already stalk my favourite authors on social media, where possible, so I have a sense of who I’d most like to talk to, given the chance.

I know the question usually allows you to go for writers either living or dead. For my own list I’ve gone for writers still with us.

The three writers I’d invite to dinner, starting with: John Green

I read my first John Green book at university, and I’ve since read every book from him. I also follow the YouTube channel that he runs with his brother, and really like the work they both do.

I’d love to talk to him about the ideas in his books, from understanding people around us to mental health. I’d also love to chat about the charity work that he and his brother do.

Also, I met him at a signing event once and completely spaced when he made a joke about the shirt I was wearing. So, I’d like the chance to redeem myself for that, and prove that I do in fact understand humour!

The second author I’d love to talk to: N.K. Jemisin

N.K. Jemisin blew my mind when I read the Broken Earth trilogy. I’ve been recommending her work to so many of the writers I work with as a developmental editor. I think the way she uses tense and perspective is fascinating. For that reason alone, N. K. Jemisin would be one of the three writers I’d invite to dinner.

I’d love to be able to ask her about how she approaches the timelines of her stories. Along with, let’s be honest, a bunch of other questions about her amazing worldbuilding and character development!

The third author at my fictional dinner table: Laini Taylor

The third of my three writers is Laini Taylor. In this case it’s because I’m in love with the worlds and characters she creates. The Daughter of Smoke and Bone trilogy is one I’ve re-read two to three times per year since buying the books. There are parts of that third book that make me cry every. Single. Time. Even though I know it’s coming.

She also just seems fun? So I’d really enjoy the chance to chat with her about writing and creating stories.

Who are the three writer’s you’d invite for dinner?

Any three writers, living or dead. And what would you want to talk about with them? Share your answers in the comments below so we can compare lists!