Joining us today for Creative Spaces is YA author Shallee McArthur. Shallee’s debut novel, The Unhappening of Genesis Lee, was published last fall by Sky Pony Press:
Seventeen-year-old Genesis Lee has never forgotten anything. As one of the Mementi—a small group of genetically-enhanced humans—Gena remembers everything with the help of her Link bracelets, which preserve memories perfectly. But Links can be stolen, and six people have already lost their lives to a memory thief, including Gena’s best friend.Anyone could be next.Which is why Gena is less than pleased to meet a strange but charming boy named Kalan who claims that they’ve not only met, but that Gena knows who the thief is.The… Read the rest
Kerry O’Malley Cerra is a former high school history teacher who often incorporated historical fiction along with traditional textbooks to bring time periods to life. Just a Drop of Water, her first middle grade novel, was inspired by a deeply personal experience following the tragic events of September 11, 2001. You can read more about that inspiration on her website here.
A summary of Just a Drop of Water from the publisher:
Ever since he was little, Jake Green has longed to be a soldier and a hero like his grandpa, who died serving his country. Right now, though, he just wants to outsmart—and outrun—the rival cross country team, the Palmetto Bugs.… Read the rest
Yesterday I heard the sad news that Zilpha Keatley Snyder passed away. Ms. Snyder was one of my writing heroes and is one of the greats of children’s literature. In 2010, I had the privilege and honor of talking to her on the phone for a Creative Spaces interview. I’m reposting that interview today in her memory.
Thank you, Ms. Snyder, for your literary contributions to our world. My childhood and the path I’ve taken as an adult have both been greatly influenced by you and your words.
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Today it is my pleasure to welcome three-time Newbery Honor winner, Zilpha Keatley Snyder, to Creative Spaces.… Read the rest
Last weekend I attended the RMC-SCBWI local conference. I can’t attend a children’s book conference without bringing home some books for myself–er, I mean my son. Jean Reidy’s All Through My Town has been a household favorite since before my son was one. I bought a second copy of that book for him and had it signed–I’ll be keeping that one safe as a keepsake, and he can continue to love our other copy to pieces. I also brought home Time Out for Monsters, which was new to him.
My son is also a fan of Salina Yoon’s Penguin and Pinecone, so I couldn’t resist bringing home Penguin and Pumpkin.… Read the rest
Joining us for Creative Spaces is Sandra Waugh. Sandra’s debut novel, Lark Rising, publishes today. Welcome to the world, Lark! Lark Rising is a YA fantasy, and the first in a series called “Guardians of Tarnec.” About Lark Rising, Publisher’s Weekly said:
“The fantastical realm is depicted in vivid detail, simultaneously ethereal and concrete, and populated by both kindly and menacing characters to guide and torment Lark, making this novel a tantalizing glimpse of what is yet to come. [Lark is] a formidable heroine beneath her reserved and gentle demeanor.”
To learn more about Sandra and her writing, read this great interview at Fearless Fifteeners, visit her website, and follow her on Twitter.
Describe your workspace.… Read the rest