Sheryl Fletcher is the author of a series of pre-teen books (Vow of Friendship, My Creepy Summer, and Secrets I Know). She’s the creator of four tween based television series which are under consideration with two major networks. Her screenplay, “The Papergirl” has been optioned by Dolphin Bay Films and is set for a fall/winter production. Sheryl is a married mother of three who lives in Ancaster, Ontario. She freely admits that she is most content when holed up in her writing cave. Recently she completed her first comedy “A Better Man” and is now enjoying a much needed writing break.
How did you get started writing?
I’ve been writing since I was about seven years old. I began with short poems and stories. I was passionate about it immediately and thought it was the greatest escape in the world. My family life was very dysfunctional so writing became my savior.
The main character for your pre-teen series, Tissy Matthews is based on your daughter. Can you describe the character of Tissy and why she appeals to young readers?
Yes, she’s based on my daughter at that age. The character of Tissy is an overall good girl who always tries to do the right thing but messes up a bit along the way. She’s smart, sporty, accepting and an excellent role model for tweens. One of the best compliments I receive from children is that they feel Tissy and her friends are so relatable. Children always want to know if the characters really exist. I love that!
Your screenplay “The Papergirl” is set for production this fall. What is “The Papergirl?”
The Papergirl tells the stories of three characters. It’s a disturbing story of abuse, secrets and survival. I will admit that it’s dark and the audience will not leave the movie feeling happy. However the premise of the story is to educate and open the audience’s eyes to what we so often choose to ignore.
Friends have said that when you go out for dinner, you never come by yourself, but that you bring your “entourage”. Tell us about your entourage.
Gosh, they’re driving me nuts right this second as I try to answer your questions! My “entourage” is a group of characters I drag around with me. Most are those who I’m nurturing during my current write but now I’m babysitting several of my son’s characters from his first screenplay while he relaxes at a cottage. Some are needy, crazy or just plain old naughty so they always must be watched.
Have you ever thought of writing a character based on a fiery red-headed women who was a mild-mannered bank employee who traded a life of finance and customer service to pursue a “higher calling” of seminary studying and ministry in the church?
It’s so funny you should ask. I just finished writing about her and she was the most challenging, interesting, exhaustingly delightful character I’ve ever created. I think I’ll title the screenplay, “A Man Duh!”
