Jane Green

1.  Why did you choose this storyline for your latest book?

I have always drawn upon the themes in my life for my books, without ever writing my story entirely. One of my close friends was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer last year, and I found my life changing entirely, particularly with regard to what kind of friend I am. I had always lazily assumed my friends knew I loved them, but this forced me to look at love in a whole new way, to recognise that love is a verb, that it requires showing people you love them, on a daily basis, rather than just saying meaningless words.

2.  How did you hear about Breakthrough and what was the driver behind getting Breakthrough involved with your launch of The Love Verb in the UK?

One of the charities I am very involved with here in the United States is Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, for children with life-threatening illnesses. My beloved Tiffany at Hole in the Wall introduced me to Stephanie Monk, chairman of Breakthrough, via email, after I mentioned that I was looking to raise money for breast cancer. Stephanie and I found ourselves an instant friendship, and I was thrilled that I am able to help.

3.  What does it mean to you to be able to share this story with your readers?

My friend developed a rare and serious complication, that occurs in less than one per cent of cancer sufferers. She died in September, and this book is a tribute to her. It is filled with her spirit, her laughter and her zest for life, and the tears I shed going through this journey. I will say, though, that I was enormously privileged to be with her almost daily, and that I hope I have passed on some of the lessons about love, seizing the moment and being present, in The Love Verb.

We wish Jane all the best.