The Ultimate YA Reading Group

9.)    What is the best thing about being an author? What’s the most challenging?  The best thing about being an author is hearing from readers. At my book signing the other day a teen came up to me and said she wanted to be me when she grew up. That was awesome. The most challenging thing is helping to make sure that our bookstores stay in business, especially our indies.  

10.) While researching Pure Red, I came to discover that you are really great at using the internet to connect to readers. You have a website, a blog, a twitter account, a facebook, myspace, etc. As an author, what role does the internet play in your profession? How do feel the internet has changed the bookindustry?  I think being connected is very important for authors, not only to reach our readers but also to stay tuned in with what’s going on around us. The internet has provided people with so many resources, and allowed readers to obtain books with a simple click. I love technology but nothing beats holding a real book in your hand.

11.) Disney Chanel will soon be airing Radio Rebel (based on Shrinking Violet). Can you tell us what the experience of having your book adapted was like? And what can fans of the book expect from this adaptation? It has been an amazing experience and I feel very blessed to have a dream come true. I’m a huge movie fan so this is definitely a meeting of my two loves. There are some changes to the story but I was very happy with the script. The movie is definitely for all ages and you will be amazed by the talented cast.

12.) I love your book covers (I think Shrinking Violet may be my favorite though)! How much input did you get to have in choosing a cover?  Thanks! I did not have any input for Shrinking Violet but was asked for some input for Indigo Blues and Pure Red. I can honestly say that I am very happy with all my book covers.  

13.) I was reading about how you worked at different radio stations. Do you feel like your experience with radio has influenced or aided you in any way? Well, working at a radio station definitely helped me to write Shrinking Violet since Tere aspires to be a DJ. I also conducted a lot of interviews as a DJ and that is a very important skill to have, whether you are on either side of the interview table.

14.) Do you have any advice for aspiring authors? Yes, never give up. Follow your heart, join a critique group so you can build upon your writing and read tons. It may sound corny but luck will only take you so far, the rest has to be passion!  

15.) Do you have any book recommendations for our readers? There are so many books to recommend but some of my favorite authors as a young adult were Judy Blume, Lois Duncan and Robert Cormier.  

16.) What are you working on now and what can we expect from you in the future? I am working on another young adult contemporary fiction novel with a color title and also a quirky middle grade.