Marie Alvarado

I was born and live in London with my husband. We have three daughters and one grandson. I have an M.A. in Creative Writing from Middlesex University and am currently studying Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes at Metanoia Institute. I tutor "Let's Talk" family learning classes in the community, encouraging students to explore their own wonderful life stories as they gain confidence in speaking a new language.

Credentials

Marie Alvarado in 60 seconds

When did you start writing?

1980 in primary school, North London.

What do you love about short stories?

Short stories often finish with a long sigh.

Do you write in other forms?

Exploring poetry for well-being.

What distracts you from writing?

Work, housework...

Outside of writing, what are your other passions?

Travel, walking, listening to live music with family and friends.

What is your favourite book?

Reading in the Dark by Seamus Deane.

Who are your favourite writers?

Toni Morrison, Arundhati Roy and John McGahern.

Where is your dream location?

San Francisco, half-way across the Golden Gate Bridge.

What one item would you put into Room 101?

Warmongers.

Do you have any advice for new writers?

Fresh + Novel + Current = New + Old + Self-belief.