The Makings of a Personal Library

Here is what two of my bookshelves (out of many) look like at home:

As you can see, I'm in love with Harry Potter and a few other well-known titles and classics. Sadly, I had to leave my books behind while I went away to school (I don't think my roommates would appreciate my books as much as I do), but hopefully we'll be reunited soon! For now, I can only continue to trudge through my textbooks and dream about the future library I will have in my home someday.

A Must Read

I finished reading Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale last weekend. I was told to never write personal reviews about books because they could come back to haunt you some day (especially in the writing world), but I can't help but say that I LOVED this book! It was a quick and easy read, and I recommend it to anyone and everyone. I think what I liked the most about it was how tightly it was written and how Hale was able to create such unique, relatable characters. It reminded me a lot of Gail Carson Levine's Ever (also a great read!) and was based on a lesser-known fairytale (I've always loved fairytale adaptations the best). I hope you'll add it to your "must-read" book list. It's definitely worth reading!

Children's Literature Conference and Shannon Hale

I could not pass up an opportunity to attend the Children's Literature Conference at UVU on March 12, especially after I learned that Shannon Hale would be the key-note speaker. She is one of my favorite middle-grade writers and has written several books, including the Newberry Honor book, Princess Academy; Goose Girl; and Rapunzel's Revenge.

The conference was fantastic! I was inspired and uplifted by the multiple speakers, and I left with a further determination to write. Writing is my passion, and writing for children is what I'm meant to do! It was a lot of fun being around others who feel the same way about writing and about children's literature.

And I got to meet Shannon Hale! She was hilarious and had a lot of helpful advice about taking the time to write and develop stories. She even signed my newest book, Book of a Thousand Days, with a fun message, as shown in the picture. It was a great conference, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to attend!

Here are 12 helpful hints given by Shannon Hale's to inspiring writers:

1. Write everyday.
2. Write at least a thousand words a day.
3. Keep a writing journal and record what you have accomplished each day.
4. Work on 2 projects at a time.
5. Ask a lot of questions!
6. Don't put everything into 1 book.
7. Don't rush publication.
8. Really know your setting.
9. Keep track of your words and try not to repeat them.
10. Be able to write everywhere and whenever.
11. Write in scenes, not notes.
12. Outline your story.

First Step into the Writing World

It has been said that the key to success in the writing world is to make yourself known.
So why not create a blog?
I write for children and young adults, and although I've yet to be published, I decided it would be best to get my foot in the door. My current Children's Publishing Class at Brigham Young University has hosted many panels of authors, editors, agents, and illustrators, all with one thing in common: a love for children's literature. I might not have an official title like "author," but already I include myself in their circle. I write because I love it and because it's who I am.
So watch out, writing world: here I come!