Mbugua: I wrote 'Angels of the Wild' in two months
Ng’ang’a Mbugua’s new book, Angels of the Wild, was written in two months. PHOTO | FILE |
Ng’ang’a Mbugua’s new book, Angels of the Wild, was written in two months. His fourth young adults book, the 26,000-word copy is the second he wrote in 2014.
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You were commissioned in October to write the book. How did that come about?
While attending the Wahome Mutahi Literary Prize ceremony, I sat next to Mr Kithusi Mulonzya, the publisher at The One Planet. As we were waiting for the winners (Mbugua was a nominee) to be announced, we started talking. Then he asked. “Why don’t you write a book for me?” and I said, “You have never asked.” So he told me to write. I asked him how many words? What audience?
Did you have a manuscript ready?
I had written a book, but it was with another publisher. I told him that I would give it to him to publish in December. I thought I would withdraw my manuscript but the other publisher said No. In fact, they said they want me to write another one so they could publish two at the same time. I was stuck, so I had to write another book.
Did you do a synopsis for the publisher?
No.
You usually go straight to writing without one? How do you keep the story on track?
There is a book by Malcolm Gladwell called Outliers. It says if you do something for 10,000 hours then you become an expert. If you told me, you want a book, I will ask you what do you want then I do it.
What is the theme of the book?
The main character, Birgen, wonders how he can use science and technology to conserve endangered wildlife. I wanted the young readers to be interested in science and technology. Technology is playing a major role in driving innovation and creating wealth.
Was this the original idea?
My original idea was titled The Daredevil Rider, which was about motorcycle accidents. Even the publisher designed the cover. However, when I started writing the story, it failed to come.
What do you mean it failed to come?
I had a story idea and I knew what I wanted to write. But I could not get the right character, even if I had the character I could not get the story to move. So, I abandoned it.
When do you know it is time to abandon an idea?
Stories are meant to be organic. They should grow naturally; start as a small tree, which gets branches, starts to flower and then it bears fruit.
You have a full-time job as an editor at the Daily Nation; when do you find the time to write?
A day has 24 hours; I sleep for eight and work for 10. That means I have six hours. Every week I have two days off. If you write 1,000 words a day or write for those two days you are not working those are 2,000 words. I like working with chapters, so I know where to go next.
