What inspired the idea behind this book?
I think it was a feeling of yearning for more connection and meaning in my life as I was raising my family; questioning the ways we do it now – from our living arrangements to our friendships to the way we conduct our romantic lives – and wondering if there might not be something better. What better time to look to for that than the 70s? A time when ordinary women suddenly had the freedom to make big changes – and sometimes big mistakes. Not to mention the fabulous fashion, music and hair.
What was the research process like for the book?
Very enjoyable. I read cookbooks from that time and devoured vintage fashion sites on ebay to remind myself of the flavours and textures of the time. I also had fascinating conversations with my hairdresser about the meaning and power of good hair, because one of my main characters, Carol, is a hairdresser. I also read a number of novels and memoirs written during that time and earlier, including by Ruth Park, the great Australian novelist and memoirist, who is one of my favourite writers.
What are you hoping the reader will take away from reading your book?
A renewed sense of commitment to our friendships, especially when things get rocky; a willingness to try new things and allow ourselves to make mistakes, and to never stop searching for our joy.
How does it feel to hold your book in your hands?
A mixture of disbelief, pleasure and excitement.
What was the most challenging part of writing this book?
Sticking with my three main characters and not wandering off into all the other characters’ stories and points of view. At one point I think I had nine different ones going, all at the same time, and it was my very wise publisher who said, quite sternly, that I should stick with the main three. She was right, of course, and it became much deeper, and more emotionally and psychologically involving as soon as I did that.
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