Lizzie Willis is a terrific thespian turned wonderful writer, having lived here in Deal her whole life barring three years in the big smoke for her University studies.
She rightfully feels a strong connection to her hometown. As part of a “large family so this is a real place of deep roots and community”. CommunityAd had a delightful chat with Deal’s newest author, Lizzie Willis.
What makes it such a charming community to call home?
Most of us who love living in Deal have an enormous love for the sea. Living near to the sea is absolutely priceless and is a free resource for healing that we all have on our doorstep!
I have watched the town develop over the past two decades to see how the introduction of more independent shops and cafes has created a sense of joy and pride here. There are so many people who love it here and you can really feel that vibrant energy.
What inspired this creation (the book)? The title is intriguing, Earth Hygge; until seconds ago prior to asking Alexa I was unaware Hygge was the Danish word for fun, is that the point of the title, Earth Fun?
I love that you asked Alexa! Brilliant! The definition I have used is more the feeling of a special moment – and the acknowledgement of that special feeling or moment but yes ‘fun’ is a simple way of putting it!
The idea came to me in lockdown and I decided it was a good opportunity to work on a project which had such an optimistic feel amidst such an unsettling time.
I have really enjoyed sharing my love for the various activities, individuals and businesses I have mentioned in the book.
One of the illustrations by Angela Malone is of a woman hugging planet Earth and so I wanted to make use of the opportunity for wordplay – Earth Hug or Hygge (pronounced “hue-gah”) just seemed fitting and resonated. The book is a combination of suggestions for finding joyful moments and also sending love to our planet by choosing to be more mindful of the environment, small businesses, fellow humans and honouring yourself, too. These things also have a positive impact on our world moving forward.
The book is illustrated by artist Angela Malone, why is collaboration so important in the creative industries?
I first met Angela when I was directing a version of Macbeth in Sandwich – her partner was drumming in our production and Angela came to watch us rehearse and made a few sketches which were simple and beautiful. They captured the essence of our work.
Why should our readers become your readers and where can they do so?
The book can be purchased from Your Little Green Shop at The Village Community Market and also from Urban Chic in the High Street.
Have you found the locals to be supportive of this endeavour?
There are lots of local businesses mentioned in the book so it was my aim for the book to be adopted by the town as a way of celebrating the area and our wider world! Several people have read the book and told me that the book really ‘spoke’ to them which is lovely!