Years ago, when I came to one of my very first SCBWI meetings in Austin (long before I had a finished book), I met a group of talented writers, some of whom became critique buddies and friends. One of those … Continue reading →

When I was a kid, I loved books more than almost anything. They filled my waking moments, and shaped the person I was to become. I read constantly, obsessively, so much so that when I got in trouble, I was … Continue reading →

  I am utterly delighted to welcome to my blog today my friend, fellow Texas Sweetheart, and debut Middle Grade author, Christina Soontornvat. I had the great pleasure of reading her novel, The Changelings, long before the incredibly clever folks … Continue reading →

Happy August, friends! I’m a Texas girl, so I AM happy. I love the heat – even in August. 100+ degrees? I’m cool with that. (Especially since Central Texas has some of the best watering holes around – close enough … Continue reading →

I’ve been reading through my TBR pile. Well, “pile” isn’t really apt. It’s shelves upon shelves of books I have purchased or been given, every one of which I have been told by people I know and trust is a … Continue reading →

Happy summer to you, friends! I’ve been mostly AWOL here, because I’ve been vacationing (yes, living Real Life! In Santa Fe and other lovely places) and finishing a draft of what I hope will be my next novel. Which means … Continue reading →

Hi, y’all! I know writers and readers from all over check in here from time to time, but this post is particularly for my local Central Texas writers. I am teaching three FREE writing workshops in the next few weeks, … Continue reading →

Hello, Writer and Reader Friends! I spent the last hour reading an incredible bundle of thank you letters from a class in Chicago I Skyped with a few weeks back. Their letters were wonderful to read, especially since the whole … Continue reading →

As an author, I am frequently asked to contribute copies of my books to charity events, or schools in need, or to Skype to a class or book club, etc. I am totally delighted to do such things when I … Continue reading →

One of the coolest things I get to do as an author is read other favorite authors’ books before anyone else. In the case of phenomenal MG author Rebecca Behrens, that means I was able to read her debut novel, … Continue reading →