Stefan Sofiski

What was your favorite book as a child?

There is a Bulgarian children’s book called Lisko, by Boris Aprilov. It tells great stories about the adventures of a little fox. It’s not widely known even in Bulgaria but it’s lovely and it was the first book I read independently. As a father, I also read it to my daughter before sleep.

Do you remember the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively?

I’ve always wanted to write but never truly believed in myself. I am an engineer and creative writing is not associated with who I’m supposed to be. However, I found myself at forty, struggling with anxiety and a buzzing mind. I decided to channel my energy into writing and six months later I had a first draft of a novel and a much calmer mind.

What was the most adventurous or thrilling thing you ever did/experienced?

I worked in a foreign country as an engineer. My wife and young daughter were with me. My employer had taken my passport to fill out “paperwork”. When I decided to leave, they refused to let me go and wouldn’t give me back my passport to fly back to Europe. I sent my family home and refused to show up for work. The impasse lasted for a couple of weeks and I was finally released.

Do you listen to music while reading or writing?

No. I am very picky about music and struggle to put together a playlist long enough.