Welcome back to The Pop Quiz at the End of the Universe, a recurring series here on Tor.com featuring some of our favorite science fiction and fantasy authors, artists, and others!
Today we’re joined by Gail Carriger, author of comedic steampunk novels mixed with urbane fantasy. Her debut novel, Soulless, won the ALA’s Alex Award. She was once an archaeologist and is overly fond of tea. Waistcoats & Weaponry, the third book in her Finishing School series, is available November 4th from Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
Join us!
What is your favorite short story?
“Friction” by Will McIntosh.
Describe your favorite place to read or write.
According to my brain, the shower, which is not conducive to either.
If you could choose your own personal theme music to play every time you enter a room, what would you pick?
“Cup of Brown Joy” by Professor Elemental
Strangest thing you’ve learned while researching a book?
That the Victorians made deserts out of pasta. Similar to the way we make rice pudding today, they made macaroni custard. I’m both repulsed and fascinated, and intent on trying it out one day.
Please relate one fact about yourself that has never appeared anywhere else in print or on the Internet.
My absolute favorite food of all time is alpaca.
If you regenerated as a new Doctor, what would your signature outfit/accessory be?
Black & white wingtip oxford stilettos.
What’s your favorite sandwich?
I’m a Reuben kinda girl but I’ll take a BLT with avocado in a red hot minute, if it comes on ciabatta. (I’m quite vested in the bread on offer and will often decide the rest according to bread options.) Occasionally, if I am very confident in the establishment, I’ll risk an egg salad on Dutch crunch, but I must be very confident indeed.
What was your gateway to SF/Fantasy, as a child or young adult?
She-ra, Tamora Pierce, Saber Rider and the Star Sheriffs, Robin McKinley, and Marvel’s New Warriors comics—pretty much in that order.
List three things you’d like our readers to know about you and your work.
1. Best read accompanied by tea and nibbly bits.
2. Neither of us are meant to be taken seriously.
3. When all else fails, dress beautifully and throw your food.
