When writing ‘what you know’ if not enough

From the day I started writing stories, I was told two things – read everything you can and write what you know. I did that, ending up adding three inches to my waistline. I eat when I’m frustrated. There was nothing — no mysterious plots, thought provoking tales, or exhilarating adventures. Just dull narrative about tedious middle class characters in tiresome, predictable situations. My sisters and I were the white in white bread – fairhaired, middle class, post war baby boomers, obedient daughters in the Age of Aquarius