When Taylor opens the school bully’s locker, she’s surprised by what she finds. The inside appears opposite of the life Brielle shows other people she’s living. When I wrote this scene, I thought about who we are when no one is looking. An open door is a peek into someone’s real life. What do the objects say about who Brielle really is?
The 3 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me Before I Became An Author Take edits; Use those edits to survive competition in the industry; Be patient while you wait, because things take a long time; Find your people; And know that someday, someone will tell you your words changed her forever. My YouTube Channel
In the garden Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month in May, I read a piece toward the end of Taylor Before and After. From my recycled garden a couple months into the pandemic, I share the scene of Taylor waking up in Manoa, with the sounds that welcome a new day. For the research on this…
Love of Place It’s February in Oregon, and I read a Taylor Before and After scene set on Oahu’s Sunset Beach. Sure, we love our people and our pets, but there are also places we love. Alone on the beach, Taylor reflects on the waves her brother and his friends surfed before things fell apart….
RE’VISION—Taking Another Look At Writing Most authors spend far more time revising a story than on crafting the first draft. What does ‘RE-vision’ mean? This short segment inspires writers to be brave in taking a second (even third) look at writing. Whether we love or hate revision, it’s a huge part of the process. Giggle…
Check out my YouTube Channel Story, setting, character– In short clips, I explore elements of the writing process, and expand on certain scenes. I talk about what isn’t visible, and lead viewers to their own connections and predictions. My YouTube Channel
Thanks to mgbookvillage.com for the great interview! It’s May– Mental Health Awareness Month– and I’m thinking about the beautiful cover of Taylor Before and After, illustrated by Rachel Suggs, on which there’s a break in the clouds above Taylor. In this intimate, honest interview, I discuss depression, desperation, empowerment, hope, and what matters more than…
