Page 32 - Reader's House magazine

A Journey Through World War II, Science Fiction, and Creative Writing Dr Mike Hollows discusses his historical and speculative fiction, the challenges of genre- switching, and his passion for teaching creative writing while reflecting on history’s lessons and his personal journey. “ D R A F T M.J. HOLLOWS EXPLORES HISTORY, HUMANITY, AND THE ART OF STORYTELLING ACROSS GENRES as told to Dan Peters The main reason I chose to explore World War II was because we still have a lot to learn from the past.’ Dr Mike Hollows is a name that has become synonymous with versatility, depth, and an un- wavering passion for the written word. A highly accomplished author and doctor of creative writ- ing, Mike, writes as M. J. Hollows has made an indelible mark across multiple literary landscapes, crafting historical fiction, science fiction, and fantasy with equal mastery. His body of work, published through notable platforms such as Harper Collins’ HQStories and Games Workshop’s Black Library, is an extraordinary testament to his ability to tra- verse genres while retaining his signature narrative power. From the poignant historical narratives of Goodbye for Now and The German Nurse to his gripping World War II explorations in The Violinist’s Secret and The German Mes- senger, Mike transports readers into vividly realised chapters of history, unearthing both the human spirit and its frailty. Meanwhile, his ventures into speculative realms, such as The Warp’s Curse and Ashes of Grimnir, are evidence of his remarkable talent for conjuring imaginative worlds that are as immersive as they are thought-provoking. A scholar with an unquenchable thirst for understanding storytelling’s complexities, Mike’s academic achievements underpin his creative expertise. His PhD exploring the Golden Age of Science Fiction and his ongoing studies in Creative Writing Pedagogy continue to influence his work, providing intriguing layers for all who delve into his narratives. It is this commitment to research and his insightful examina- tion of socio-political themes—be it the echoes of wartime 32 II Reader’s House