Sophie Myers explained that she has always been fascinated by history and the stories of people who have lived through major events. She wanted to tell a story that would capture the experiences of ordinary people, who are often overlooked in history books. “I think there’s a lot of value in looking at history from a personal perspective,” she said. “It helps us understand the impact that major events have on individuals, and how they shape the course of our lives.”
The Wayward Voyage tells the story of a young woman named Ana, who is forced to flee her home in Europe during World War II. She embarks on a perilous journey to the United States, where she hopes to start a new life. Along the way, she encounters people from different backgrounds, who teach her valuable lessons about love, loss, and resilience.
Valbuzzi was struck by the emotional depth of The Wayward Voyage, which he described as a “thought-provoking and moving” work of fiction. “The book does an excellent job of capturing the human experience during times of great upheaval,” he said. “Through the character of Ana, we see how people can find strength in the face of adversity.”
During the interview, Myers also talked about the challenges she faced while writing her first novel. She explained that it was daunting to tackle such a complex story, but she was determined to see it through. “I had to do a lot of research to make sure that the historical details were accurate,” she said. “But I also wanted to make sure that the characters felt real and relatable.”
Valbuzzi noted that the research and attention to detail in the book were evident in the vivid descriptions of the different settings and time periods. “As a reader, I felt like I was right there with Ana as she journeyed across the Atlantic,” he said. “The book really transports you to another time and place.”
Overall, Valbuzzi and Myers had a lively and insightful discussion about the craft of writing and the joys and challenges of bringing a story to life. The Wayward Voyage is an excellent example of the power of fiction to shed light on our shared humanity, and readers will surely find much to ponder and admire in this new work.
In conclusion, The Wayward Voyage is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction or is interested in stories of personal resilience and growth. Sophie Myers’ debut novel is a remarkable achievement, and it is clear that she has a bright as a writer. Roberto Valbuzzi’s interview with Myers provides an engaging glimpse into the creative process behind the book and sheds light on the important themes and ideas that the book explores.