Efacis "I received a much better impression of how Lucy writes her stories, specifically what the process is like. What stuck with me the most is when she mentioned how she tries not to send any particular message, but instead tries to write characters that the reader has to get intimately familiar with in their story. It's fascinating, hearing of this approach that wants the reader to try and empathize with her characters."
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"I believe that through this live-reading I managed to gain a much greater appreciation of the short stories and have become much more interested in Lucy's other works too."
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"The live reading by Lucy Caldwell was a very pleasant event. The setting was quite professional, yet felt very warm and welcoming at the same time. When being asked questions, Lucy not only answered thoughtfully but also on each topic. She frequently referenced friends, colleagues, and fellow authors who have inspired her, expressing genuine gratitude for the influences that shaped her work."
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"What really stuck with me was how Lucy goes out into the world (the streets of London to buy Lipstick) in order to "find" her characters and their "essence". It was very eye-opening. Reading a story and getting to know the characters in it is one thing, but learning the process of how these characters came to life, how they were "invented", was very interesting. I also learned more about short stories as a genre; how they are so much more than just a compacted story."
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"Getting to learn abou the work behind the work was very interesting, and getting more insight into Lucy Caldwell's thoughts, even throughout the process, felt rewarding in a way. She has so much knowledge that she works into and presents throught her own created stories/ world and characters."
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"I was luckily able to attend both the meet and greet as well as the reading with Lucy Caldwell last week. Both events, but especially the meet and greet gave me an incredible impression of Lucy and her literary world. While listening to her talk about her work, her experience and her interests, I felt inspired and amazed of her way of thinking. Her answers were full of life and made listening to her extremely easy. Though I was very tired at the end of the day, hearing her talk about niche topics such as the Belfast blitz sparked new interests in me and made me realize how much I don't actually know about the craft of literature, which is not a bad thing at all, staying curious and learning new things make these experiences so magical. Lucy took her time answering questions, whole heartedly letting us see glimpses of her creative writing process and how a story comes together. I personally did not ask any questions; however she still made sure to interact with all of us during the meet and greet, giving us the chance to ask whatever we want, she was patient and kind towards us, ultimately creating a save space even for those like me who prefer to listen. I am definitely going to purschase some of her collections and novels."
