My Dream Author Panel

I have had the pleasure of "meeting" many authors going to book signings, promotional events, keynote speeches and conventions. My favorite format is a panel, where there is more than one voice being heard and answering questions. This is a great whether it be authors, editors, or agents. But the very best presentations come from authors, the creative individuals who make imaginative worlds come alive.

So, this is my dream author panel. I'd love to see these people get together and hear the advice they'd give the rest of us.

Suzanne Collins

 I'd like to hear from Suzanne not only about The Hunger Games series, which I loved, but because she had several books published before her blockbuster hit. I'd like to hear about her earlier work, and what happened when The Hunger Games became a sensation. 

Neal Shusterman

I have been a fan of Neal Shusterman's work ever since I read "The Schwa Was Here" in my child's middle school book club. It was such a different and fun book to read. His newest book, "Scythe," won a Prinz medal honor in 2017. I'd love to hear how he gets his ideas, and more about his craft.

Gary Paulsen

Who hasn't read something by the author of "Hatchet?" Greg Paulsen's work is remains relevant and fresh, although it isn't always set in the modern day as newer writers are advised. I'd like to hear his thoughts on that.

Kate DiCamillo

She is the queen of middle school literature. Who wouldn't want to hear the secrets of her magic?

Amanda Hocking

 I have never read anything written by Amanda, but her success speaks for her. I would like to see her on the panel if only to detail how she succeeded as a self published author. Publishing is more and more accessible with small press and self publishing options, as entrance into the Big Six (or is is five now?) is more and more elusive. Amanda might feel a bit out of place, not being a writer of children's fiction, but I am including her for her "expert" knowledge on self promotion and nontraditional publishing.

Please post your suggestions in the comments. I'd love to hear about authors who inspire you. And if you are interested in hosting a conference or event, check out Eventbrite.

Book Review: Asking For It

Irish author Louise O'Neill does not shy away from the very heavy subject of rape in her YA novel, "Asking For It," where the beautiful, vain and somewhat superficial Emma O'Donovan wakes up to a reality that she can't remember and the terrible aftermath of shame, regret and suspicion.

For those who are hesitant, the violence happens off screen, as Emma blacks out and remembers nothing. The tone of the book is divided into two parts, the before and the after. Emma, at age 18, is confident that she is the best looking of her friends, that she can attract any guy she sets her sights on. Her friendships are shallow, and selfish, except for her longtime friendship with the boy next door, patient and level-headed Conor.

Her confidence is taken from her by the actions of others on a night she doesn't remember; and the reactions of her peers, her parents, her friends on social media, and her community. The reader is plunged into the darkness of her soul, feeling every emotion as Emma attempts to make sense of her world now.

"Asking For It" is a gripping read, it is an important one, too. It is a start of a conversation that has to happen about rape, consent, and slut shaming.