I’ve loved books and stories all my life, but writing took a back seat to work and motherhood for a few years. Making up stories for my children brought me back to it. Watching them become readers has reignited my imagination and inspired me to write a book of my own.
I’m a little rusty. I’ve taken a few classes, connected with other writers, and am making room for writing alongside everything else.
What’s on my bookshelf
Middle grade has a growing place on my bookshelf as I explore what I love about writing for this age. But my reading wanders, and I’ll share both middle grade discoveries and whatever else I’m reading.
Middle grade
Middle grade has a growing place on my bookshelf. Nevermoor pulled me in with its story and kept me coming back to study its structure. Rooftoppers is on my bedside table, waiting to be read—I’ve heard great things about Katherine Rundell.
And then there’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid. My kids are obsessed, and we’ve read most of the series together. We’re eagerly awaiting the next book.
What else I’m reading
In this busy season of life, I gravitate toward fiction that helps me escape and put down the screens. Often, that means historical fiction with a strong female lead.
These are a few of my favorite reads this year. I’ll read anything Kristin Hannah writes, and The Women, which shines a light on women’s roles in the Vietnam War, is one of her best. The Calamity Club and Remarkably Bright Creatures also have characters who kept me invested from beginning to end.
My first novel is an older middle grade fantasy set in the woods, with woodland creatures and magic. It’s inspired by my children and the stories I love making up for them.
From the journal
Books, discoveries, and notes on finding my way back to writing.
Explore the journal →