Monday, August 1, 2011

Back from Camp

So last week I didn't post at all because I was away all week at a youth camp. It was an incredible experience in a lot of ways, but specifically with regards to writing it was a strong confirmation that I'm doing exactly what I should be: writing books for teens.

I met a lot of really incredible high schoolers who inspired me, challenged me and gave me enthusiasm to come back and continue fighting to make progress as a writer. I heard a lot of stories about how complex and difficult and sometimes messy teens' lives can be, and I want to write books that reinforce that they don't have to go through those years alone.

I guess I won't really go into a lot of depth about that since I'm still processing the week (and catching up on sleep!), but these thoughts really hit me while I was there, so I thought I'd put them down as a reminder to myself and encouragement to anyone else out there writing YA. Books can make a big difference to a lot of people.

6 comments:

  1. Sounds fantastic! I'm so glad to hear it inspired you in your writing, and I look forward to hearing more about it. :D

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  2. I'm going to need that inspiration today as I get started on my edits. Feeling a bit nervous actually.

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  3. Haven't looked at the story in several months. Worrying I'll botch it up (and yes, I do know that's what back-ups are for). Wondering if I'll really be able to pull it off and make the story as good as it can be. The usual fears :)

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  4. It's okay to write stories that are less than they can be. You have to leave room for improvement.

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  5. Something tells me I won't have to *try* to have room for improvement :)

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