Introduction to a Novel Brought to Life
An author from Hertfordshire has expressed her amazement at how her novel has been adapted into a television series. The BBC series, Mix Tape, tells the story of a couple who meet in the late 1980s and bond over their shared love of music from different parts of the world. The show is based on a novel by Jane Sanderson, who resides near Leominster.
The Author’s Experience
Jane Sanderson described the experience of seeing her novel come to life as "moving" and "amazing". She recalled visiting the set and being surrounded by the crew, catering tent, makeup, and wires, all of which were there because of her writing. Sanderson said, "To know that all of this was finished and the whole crew was there, and the catering tent was there, make-up and wires, and everything was there because I had written a novel was an amazing feeling."
The Power of Music
Sanderson explained that she wanted to "use the power of music" in her novel, as she believes it can speak for people when they are not able to articulate their feelings. Although she never had a romantic experience like her main characters, Daniel and Allison, she drew inspiration from her own life. She said, "I think music can speak for you if you are not particularly articulate."
Adapting the Novel for Television
Despite the success of the series, Sanderson admitted that she initially felt "wounded" by some of the changes made for television. However, she now understands why certain elements of the original novel were altered. She said, "On the whole, it was a really brilliant evocation of my book and it was definitely loyal to the spirit of the book."
What’s Next for the Author
When asked about her future plans, Sanderson revealed that she is writing an accompanying book to Mix Tape, called Mix Tape Rewind. The new book will be a prequel, exploring the stories of two young people mentioned in the original novel. Sanderson said, "It will go back in time and look at two other young people who are actually mentioned in the book. Anyone who has read this book will be able to recognize these characters. Allison and Daniel will also be in it, but only from the perspective of these first parties."
