Author: Amy Nielsen
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Why To Include Small Indie Presses in Your To-Query List
If you are a querying author, chances are you’ve poured over agents’ manuscript wish lists. You have probably looked at social media posts and websites hoping to find perfect matches for your manuscript. And while that is what you should be doing, it’s not all you could be doing. Many querying authors overlook small independent…
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Helping Teens in Crisis
Although this post doesn’t specifically help writers, I hope it shows writers your work can help others! Last year, I presented for a nonprofit that helps teens in crisis. I wanted to share it with you! Please consider purchasing a copy to donate to a high school library, a public library, a homeless shelter, a…
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How to Title Your Manuscript When Querying: Tips That Catch an Agent’s Eye
When you’re querying agents, your title is your story’s handshake—your first impression. A great manuscript title doesn’t just sound good; it hints at genre, tone, and emotional promise. While titles can change during the publishing process, a strong one helps your submission stand out from the slush pile. So how do you craft one that…
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Mastering Live Book Pitches: Tips for Success (Plus a Free Template!)
Pitching your book at a live event is like stepping into the spotlight with your creative soul on display. You’ve got minutes to capture the attention of literary agents, each one looking for the next big thing. It’s an adrenaline rush—a mix of public speaking and storytelling—with the tantalizing hope of hearing, “I’d love to…
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Tips for Querying Authors and My Bronze Win of the Florida State Book Award
Pinch me. Is this real life? I never thought I’d get my book published much less win a publishing award in my home state. And even more of a surprise, my friend, Andie Smith, won SILVER in the same category! (Andie, I can’t wait to see you at the awards ceremony and give you a…
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2024 Publishing Highlights: My Journey and Future Plans
Hi Writing and Publishing Community! I hope your 2024 was positive and productive. I wanted to share a summary of my 2024 accomplishments and of some of the resources I created for emerging and seasoned authors. I’m also sharing my plans for 2025. 2024 Highlights January 2024: Presented at Power Publishing Day at NOVA Southeast…
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Planned Parenthood Fundraiser – Drawing for 5 Query and First 5 Pages Critiques
Friends, I must DO something. As a supporter of human rights, I’m elevating Planned Parenthood this month. I’m hosting a fundraiser for Planned Parenthood. You can read more about the history of Planned Parenthood here. In light of an emerging questionable political landscape, the rights of women and women’s health are at stake. For just…
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A Self-Editing Guide for Authors – Part 3 – Copy Edits
After developmental and line editing, it’s time to polish formatting, grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Most word processors will have some sort of AI that will catch many grammar and punctuation errors. Additionally, you can use programs like Grammarly. But much of this will be the responsibility of the eyes of humans. Specifically, yours!:) Please note…
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Losing My Father While He’s Still Alive
I writhe my hands in my lap. Out the passenger-seat window familiar scenery appears—decrepit orange groves and crumbling fences. “You okay?” Brayden asks. “We don’t have to do this. I’ll turn around.” “No, no. I need to see him. It’ll be fine.” But I don’t trust the words I’ve just spoken. Over the last few…
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GLAAD Fundraiser—Drawing For 5 Query and First 5 Pages Critiques
Friends, I must DO something. I’m not a part of the LGBTQ+ community, but I am a LOUD and PROUD ally. I’m hosting a fundraiser for GLAAD, GLAAD is a dynamic media force that tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. You can read more about the…
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A Self-Editing Guide for Authors Part 2 – Line Edits
Once we get our stories developmentally healthy (Part 1), it’s time to analyze our word choice. And every single word matters. I’m gonna geek out on this part. Because I LOVE revising on a line level. It’s literally my favorite part of the revision process. You might be thinking, she’s being picky and petty. And…
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A Self-Editing Guide For Authors – Part 1 Developmental Edits
You’ve typed the words The End. Alpha Readers, Beta Readers and Critique Partners have given you a thumbs-up. Friends and family members have given you two enthusiastic thumbs-up. Congratulations! You’re ready to send your query to your top list of agents or small presses. Or hit publish if you’re planning to do this on your…
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Why You Should Make a Book Trailer and How to Create One (Including My FREE Webinar!)
The free webinar with examples is at the end. I made it for Wild Ink and Conquest authors, but I’m now sharing it with YOU! Along with my free downloadable guide.:) Enjoy! What is a Book Trailer? A book trailer is similar to a movie trailer. It’s a short video created to entice the viewer…
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My Chat with Amethyst Ink Editor Demi Michelle Schwartz
Recently I had the privilege of chatting with author, recording artist, editor, and someone I’m honored to call friend, Demi Michelle Schwartz. We spoke about her experience so far as a freelance editor for Amethyst Ink. As an editorial agent, I wanted to pick her brain and see what she’s seen on her end. The…
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Free Audio Book Giveaway for WORTH IT
I’m super excited to share that I am giving away FIVE free copies of the audiobook for WORTH IT. Narrated by the incredible Shealey Hannigan, the audiobook really brings to life the story of poverty-stricken and pregnant teen Angela Carter as she navigates the constant obstacles standing in her way. Shealey is a master storyteller…
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How To Get an Agent’s Attention: A Free Mini Course
Recently a friend asked me to create a video series for an MFA program she’s teaching to help her students improve in getting an agent’s attention. So I’m going to share the four videos I created with YOU in hopes they help you get an agent’s attention and help your publishing dreams come true. The…
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Maximize Your Reach: How Authors Can Get on Podcasts and Succeed
According to Back Link there are over 500 million podcasts listeners worldwide. The podcast business currently is a 23-billion-dollar industry with projections it could reach 100 billion by 2030. Numbers don’t lie, podcasts could be one of the top ways to grow your author brand and ultimately sell more books. But there are some strategic…
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Giveaway For Listeners of Michelle Glogovac’s My Simplied Life Podcast
It was an absolute honor to be a guest on Michelle Glogovac’s My Simplified Life podcast. I’ve been a fan of Michelle’s ever since I heard her on David Gwyn’s Thriller 101 podcast where she talked about her book How to Get on Podcasts. Michelle’s tips and tricks are PERFECT for any author who is…
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Goodreads Book Giveway
I’m excited to share that I’ll be giving away five copies of my young adult novel WORTH IT, along with some secret swag. The giveaway starts today and lasts through May 5th. Book Summary Seventeen-year-old Angela Carter intended to pick out prom dresses with her best friend and fill out college applications during her senior…
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Ten Things to Consider Avoiding in Your First Page
I had the honor of attending the Florida Writing Day Workshop in Tampa, Florida this past weekend. I met so many amazing people in the writing community. If you haven’t attended a Writing Day Workshop, I urge you to search for one in your area. You won’t regret it! One of the panels I served…
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You Got Me
The following short story is inspired by an actual conversation overheard at a bar. Sometimes reality is crazier than fiction.
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 22 -Interview with Natalie Brougham Author of The Element
About The Author Natalie grew up worshipping fiction and fiction writers like Roald Dahl, Douglas Adams, and Kurt Vonnegut. On many occasions she was in big trouble for reading all night as a child instead of sleeping, but that never stopped her. Fiction has been a sufficient substitute for reality on occasions when reality wasn’t…
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Podcast Interview: Authors of Impact with Jas Rawlinson
Now that WORTH IT is out there in the wild with ARC readers and for sale as pre-orders. I wanted to share this interview with Jas Rawlinson. In the beginning of my writing journey, Jas Rawlinson was someone I turned to. She is a book coach who typically helps authors craft their memoirs. And while…
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The Anatomy of a Scene
At it’s simplistic form, a novel is merely an opening scene, followed by scenes of rising action to a climax, followed by scenes of falling action to a conclusion. That’s it. But what constitutes a scene? Well writing friends, I’m about to break it down for you in a formulaic template that will keep your…
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So You Want to Write a Book That Gets Published: A Step-By-Step Guide
As a published author, associate literary agent, and developmental editor, I often hear, “I have an idea for a book, I just don’t know where to start.” And I get it. I’ve been there. You don’t know what you don’t know. So in this post, I’m going to lay out a framework any hopeful author…
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Book Talk With The Girls
My daughters are my best friends. But they aren’t only my best friends, they are also each other’s best friends. But first, a little backstory. (which of course I NEVER recommend in the opening pages of your fictional novel:) Danielle is my first-born. I had her living in poverty in a run-down trailer park as…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 21 – Interview with Literary Agents Christine Goss and Esty Downes
In this episode, I chat with literary agents Christine Goss at The Purcell Agency and Esty Downs of Art House Literary Agency. What We Discuss Resources This Shit No One Tells You About Writing Writing Day Workshops Contact Info Christine Goss Christine’s Twitter Christine’s Threads Christine at The Purcell Agency Christine Kelly Reads and Writes…
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Rebecca Minelga Author Spotlight
I’m super excited to introduce Conquest Publishing author Rebecca Minelga author of the upcoming novel Third and Long. About The Author Rebecca Minelga is an author and speaker who uses the power of words to navigate the liminal spaces between who we are and who we are becoming. She raises Guide Dog Puppies and two sons –…
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Encore: Author(ish) Podcast Episode 20: Interview with Dana Hawkins Author of Not In the Plan
I am sharing an encore episode of the Author(ish) podcast where I interview my co-host, Dana Hawkins in celebration of her debut, Not in the Plan, launching this week!
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Query Submission Review Giveaway for Power Publishing Day
If you are attending/attended my session Polishing Your Query Submission: A Guide For Fiction Authors, I’m giving away one query submission review! The session is January 25, 2024. You must apply for the giveaway by January 27, 2024. But, you have until January 31, 2024to revise on your query submission using everything you learned at…
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Heather Stigall – Author Spotlight
About Heather Heather Stigall uses her experience with children and her degrees in Child Development, Psychology-based Human Relations, and Social Work to create stories that speak to kids. She is the Critique Group/Meet & Greet Coordinator for the Eastern PA SCBWI Chapter, a member of the 12×12 Picture Book Challenge, and a wife and parent to…
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Author(ish) Podcast 19: Interview with Chuck Sambuchino of Writing Day Workshops
About Chuck Sambuchino CHUCK SAMBUCHINO is a bestselling humor book writer, a freelance editor, and a former editor for Writer’s Digest Books for many years. During his time with WD Books (until 2017), he edited the GUIDE TO LITERARY AGENTS as well as the CHILDREN’S WRITER’S & ILLUSTRATOR’S MARKET. His Guide to Literary Agents Blog was one…
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My Top 8 YouTube Writing Resources for 2024
Hello, authors in all phases of your writing journey. As a new associate literary agent at The Purcell Agency, I hope to help every author who queries me, or who stumbles across my website, to come away with something valuable. This resource list is one. If you’ve read anything about me, and fine if you…
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My Top Lucky Thirteen Writing Podcasts for 2024
Hello, authors in all phases of your writing journey. As a new associate literary agent at The Purcell Agency, I hope to help every author who queries me, or who stumbles across my website, to come away with something valuable. This resource list is one. If you’ve read anything about me, and fine if you…
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Elabeth Cooney Author Spotlight
I’m excited to share my interview with poetry author Elabeth Cooney! Elabeth, tell us a little about yourself. Hello! My name is Elizabeth Jade Cooney, also known as “Elabeth Cooney”. In addition to being a poet, I am currently a university psychology student. Beautiful Disasters What is the story behind your story? Mental illness and…
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Arini Vlotman Author Spotlight
I am honored to introduce you to author Arini Vlotman. About the Author Arini is romance fanatic, book worm, book hoarder and writer. Writers are her superheroes; readers are her tribe. She’s a people’s person and a wordy nerd so she can find comfort in almost any space but there is nothing quite like being…
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Query Submission Review Giveaway for Writer’s Workout Attendees
If you are attending/attended my session Reading For Writers, I’m giving away one query submission review! The conference is March 15th through the 17th, 2024. You must apply for the giveaway during the conference window. But, you have until March 31st, 2024 to revise on your query submission using everything you learned at the conference.…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 18: Interview with Riley Kilmore Author of Shay the Brave
In this episode, Riley and I talk about her upcoming MG debut Shay the Brave. About Riley In addition to her 20 years as a firefighter, Kilmore’s been a cop and a homeschool mom. She’s leaped from an airplane or two, sailed around the world, and with her husband of 36 years has raised six…
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Jamie Bills Author Spotlight
I am honored to introduce you to picture book author and influencer Jamie Bills. I absolutely fell in love with Jamie and I know you will, too! About Jamie Jamie Bills writes laugh-while-you-learn books sprinkled with heart. Inspired by Ross Burach, Ryan T. Higgins, Laurie Keller, and Aaron Reynolds, she believes humor has the power…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 17: Interview with J.K. Raymond Author of Infinite Mass
In this episode, J.K. and I talk about the buzz of launch day for a debut author. About J.K. J.K. Raymond received her Bachelor of Arts from Fontbonne University in St. Louis in 1995 where she fell in love with everything in St. Louis and under it! Additionally, she obtained a Missouri teacher certification in…
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Junes Smalls Author Spotlight
I am super excited to introduce you to picture book author June Smalls. June has several published books and several upcoming in the near future. About June June Smalls has been making up stories since she only had pets and stuffed animals to share them with. She writes fiction and nonfiction books that are funny,…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 16: Interview with Dana Hawkins Author of Not In the Plan
In this episode, Dana and I talk about Queer Joy Romance and what draws her to the genre. We also deep dive into her publishing journey. About Dana Dana Hawkins is a queer mom of three humans and one Saint Bernard. When not searching the country for the perfect cup of piping hot Americano, she…
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Victoria Diaz Author Spotlight
I’m so excited to introduce you to Conquest Publishing author Victoria Diaz. I know you are going to enjoy getting to learn about her and her books just as I did. Her Story Behind the Story is one you will not forget. Enjoy! Amy About the Author Victoria M Diaz is a Social Worker along…
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Sylwia Koziel Author Spotlight
I’m excited to introduce you to Conquest Publishing author Sylwia Koziel. I know you are going to enjoy getting to learn about her and her books just as I did. Both her favorite writing tool and writing resource are favorites of mine as well! Enjoy! Amy Author Bio Sylwia is a born and raised Chicagoan,…
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J.K. Raymond Author Spotlight
About the Author J.K. Raymond received her Bachelor of Arts from Fontbonne University in St. Louis in 1995 where she fell in love with everything in St. Louis and under it! Additionally, she obtained a Missouri teacher certification in 1995 for art K-12. J.K. continued her education at Fontbonne University in 2005 adding an additional…
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Shaelynn Long Author Spotlight
About the Author Shaelynn Long is a dirt road kid from Michigan. She teaches English at a small-town community college. Shaelynn has previously published Blur, Dirt Road Kid, Work in Progress, and her debut novel, Fury’s Fate, came out in October 2023. This writer can often be found with a nose in a book and covered in Corgi fur.…
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Kylie Wiggins Author Spotlight
About the Author Twenty-one-year-old Kylie Wiggins lives in Houston, Texas. When she’s not writing, she’s attending Sam Houston State University where she’s a senior pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice. She loves to read fantasy books and write poetry. She has two books available on Amazon now! Adorned in Ice Eliza Hawke, the ice-wielding princess…
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Michael Goodwin Hilton Author Spotlight
About the Author Michael Goodwin Hilton is an award-winning playwright, poet, and short story writer who has had his work developed and produced in festivals across the United States and Europe. He is a two-time recipient of the Governor’s Award for Best Play in the State of New Jersey and The Spotlight Award from True…
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Riley Kilmore Author Spotlight
I’m excited to introduce you to Wild Ink Publishing author Riley Kilmore. I know you are going to enjoy getting to learn about her and her books just as I did. I can relate to Riley in our writing routine, which you’ll read about below! Enjoy! Amy About the Author In addition to devoting 20 years…
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Magdalene Dietchka Author Spotlight
I’m excited to introduce you to Conquest Publishing author Magdalene Dietchka I know you are going to enjoy getting to learn about her and her book just as I did. I think her story is one that everyone can relate to. Enjoy! Amy About the Author Magdalene was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania to a large, loving, and…
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Haddessah Anne Brice Author Spotlight
About the Author Haddessah Anne Brice (Haddie for short) an American born dreamer, cat mom, universal auntie, and logophile with Celtic ancestry (mainly Irish/Scots-Irish) has been writing and dreaming for most of her life, but until recently lacked the confidence to pursue publication. She was born and raised in West Virginia but found her “heart…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 15: Interview with Jenny Hale, Author and Founder of Harpeth Road Publishing
About Jenny Jenny Hale is founder and director of the romantic fiction imprint Harpeth Road Press. Harpeth Road was named one of the eight best publishers in Nashville by Reedsy.com. Its very first title was a number one Clean and Wholesome romance on Amazon.com. Harpeth Road signed a TV film and shopping agreement for its second…
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A Shel of Her Former Self
I push a cart of buffet-caked dishes between scattered tables at Don’s Smorgasbord. “Angela,” a regular greets me. “Hey, Shel. How are ya?” I pluck plates of gnawed chicken bones and dessert-crumbed remnants from the table. “Where’s Jennie?” “Bathroom.” He pulls a fancy pen from his front pocket, scribbles on a napkin, and tucks a…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 14 – All Things Picture Books With Jamie Bills and June Smalls
In this episode, I have a conversation with picture book authors Jamie Bills and June Smalls. We Discuss: Jamie’s Contact Info: Instagram Twitter Website June’s Contact Info: Instagram Twitter Website For Editors and Publishers: If you are an editor or publisher interested in either Jamie or June’s work, please use the contact form below.
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Traffic in the Bahamas
Two Canadians, a Brit, and an American walk into a Bahamian casino. What could go wrong? To find out, keep reading. It’s a doozie. # # # Michael drops into a plush seat at the Blackjack table and slaps down two-hundred-dollar bills. The bow-tied dealer pushes a large stack of chips his way. This is…
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My Top 10 Tips For Reducing Word Count in a Bloated Manuscript
Many writers, including myself, have received feedback that our word count is too high for our age range and genre. Especially for us debuts, we sometimes tend to over-write and make some common mistakes that inflate our word count. But here’s the thing, it’s not that difficult to reduce the word count for pretty much…
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 13 – How Writing Short Stories For Anthologies and Competitions Can Beef Up Your Author Bio and Elevate Your Craft
In this episode, Dana and I talk about the benefits for writing short stories and submitting them for publication in anthologies and writing competitions. Resources Curiosity Never Killed the Writer Wild Ink Publishing Anthology Submissions The Writer’s Workout If you want to ask us a question we can answer on the show, drop it below!
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Author(ish) Podcast Episode 12: A Deep Dive Into Querying and Manuscript Wish List with Amy Nielsen
In this episode, Dana interviews Amy about her new role as an associate literary agent at The Purcell Agency. We Discuss: Resources: Polishing Your Submission Packet For Querying Ten Steps Authors Should Consider Before Querying Author(ish) Podcast Episode 08 – Opening Pages: Risky Versus Less Risky The Shit No One Tells You About Writing Comp Service Amy’s Manuscript…
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Dirt Bag Bully
I rip out my earbuds and toss them on the table. “I cannot believe this.” “What?” Brett asks as he puts on his sneakers for a walk. “Grammar Guru just explained the backstory of the word bully. Allegedly in the 1500s it meant sweetheart. I mean why do that? It kinda undermines the gravity of…
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How Books Saved My Life: A Memoir
I recently attended a literary conference, YA By the Bay. The theme was turning readers into leaders. I shared this story with teen readers, and now I’d like to share it with you. As a writing community, we have an obligation—to highlight the magnitude of what’s at stake when teens don’t have access to the…
Amy Nielsen 