Goodreads asked Ian Backhouse:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Ian Backhouse Write, write, write. If you start a book, no matter how good or bad it's going, finish it. That's so essential. Each book will get better and better. Write regularly, every day if you can, even if it's just a paragraph - an amazing world will open up to you more and more each day. Remember you are unique and no-one writes like you. Make your style your own. Say what you want to say in your own way, but be prepared to learn from others. :)

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