YA Fiction Addiction INTERVIEWS-DISCUSSIONSREVIEWS-RECOMMENDATIONSCOSPLAY-NEWS
CARVE THE MARK CONTROVERSIES?! A triggering picture and questionable portrayal of POC?
The Makings of A Sequel
Interview with Farah Oomerbhoy on her new novel and her writing story.
BOOK BASED ON THE BLACK LIVES MATTER MOVEMENT HITS #1 ON THE NYT Review and the public's thoughts
TOP 3 READING SPOTS Can't get comfortable while reading your new book? Try these!
JUNE/JULY 2017
Aliya Byers Creator/Editor In Chief
16 year old with a love of reading, writing, and fashion.
When I first started curating topics for this issue I had doubts about how successful this project would be. Even now I don't know how much you'll like this, but hey, if I can make a few people and myself happy then why not? This magazine was an idea that sat at the back of my mind for the longest and I finally turned this idea into a reality that makes my soul fly. I had a specific inspiration from the creator of a magazine for teens of color and I thank her for being at that convention because she is what drove me to make this happen. Thank you! Also, shout out to my trusted adviser and dear friend Damaris. You're always coming in clutch girl. :)
I just hope that you all cherish and enjoy this magazine as much as I do. If you have any ideas or pointers for how to make it better email me (contact info on my website)! I will reply and talk to you all, honestly hearing from you makes my day. As the cover and my website tell you, there's lots to expect from this magazine and it'll only get better. Welcome addicts, because YAFA will not only fuel your addiction, it'll encourage it and help it grow.
Top 3 Cozy Reading Spots - 4 LGBTQ+ Recommendations - 5 Carve The Mark Controversies - 6 The Lit. List - 8
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Interview with Claire Luana - 9 10 Best Asian Inspired Fantasy - 10 What Reading Means to Me - 12 From Page to Screen - 13 The Hate U Give Review - 14 Why You Should Utilize the Library - 15 High School Student Creates Literary Publishing Club - 16 Spring Clean Your Bookshelves - 18 The Making of a Quality Sequel - 21 King's Cage Lookbook - 19
What Kind of Reader Are You? - 23 Zodiac Based Book Recommendations - 24
THE BIRD'S NEST Are you too lazy or too broke (like me) to invest in a full scale, gorgeous reading nook? Never fear, your bedding is here! To do this get all the stray pillows and blankets you can find, pick a corner in your room near your bookshelf or a window, and arrange your nest to fit your comfort needs. DO try this at home kids!
THE CLASSIC:YOUR BEDÂ We all love our beds. We wish to be in them when we're at school and for us fangirls and boys we spend lots of our spare time in them to read. So to spice it up a little bit grab a throw blanket and hit up a bookish merch site for some fandom pillows/swag. By the time your done not only will you be fangirling over your new read but your new reading nook as well.
TOP 3 COZY READING SPOTS
INSPIRATION FOR COMFY READING SPOTS
THE ATMOSPERIC CORNER Comfort isn't just about how many pillows and blankets you have. Sometimes it's the atmosphere surrounding your reading nook that makes it comforting to your soul. To do this, get some fairy lights and posters/plaques to add some pizazz to your walls. This creates a complete sense of personal artistic satisfaction or atmosphere, if you want to be plain.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
LGBTQ+ Recommendations
History is All You Left Me by: Adam Silvera When Griffin's ex-boyfriend Theo dies, he befriends the only other person who can understand his grief. Theo's last boyfriend Jackson.
Queens of Geek by: JenWilde Things get crazy at a convention when BFF's Jamie, Taylor, and Charlie deal with everything from breakups to new love and confessions.
We Are Okay by: Nina LaCour When Marin left everything behind to go to school in New York she never talked to anyone from her old life. When her best-friend comes to visit for winter break Marin will have to face everything she left unsaid.
Our Own Private Universe by: Robin Talley
Of Fire and Stars by: Audrey Coulthurst
It's Not Like It's A Secret by: Misa Sugiura
Aki Simon knows she's bisexual and she has a theory about sex. While on a mission trip to Mexico Aki meets Christa, who's older and far more experienced - it seems her theory is prime for the testing. In a summer of testing theories the result might be love.
Betrothed to the prince of Mynaria, princess Dennaleia knew what her future entailed, creating an alliance between Mynaria and her homeland. But things get crazy when she finds herself falling for the prince's sister and with brewing conflict in the kingdom Denna must look within herself to save her kingdoms and control her brewing magic.
Sana has many secrets, one being that she may have a crush on her best-friend. When Sana moves to California she meets Jamie. Her new friends don't like Jamie's crowd and vice versa, with her dad's obvious affair the secrets start to pile up. Will she be able to handle the truth and what comes after?
CARVE THE MARK CONTROVERSIES?!
TRIGGER ISSUES AND MISREPRESENTATION OF POC (PEOPLE OF COLOR).
Recently in the book community there has been lots of drama surrounding Veronica Roth’s new novel Carve the Mark. Not only is the controversy about the content of the book, but of a photo to hype it up as well. Let’s start with the photo. Briefly described it was a cover recreation of Carve the Mark done on the bookstagrammer’s arm. In case you don’t know or are new to the book community, the cover is dark blue with what appears to be golden slash marks. The problem was that people found this triggering and that it “romanticized” self harm. I first learned about this while watching a booktube video all about the backlash on this post. She spoke on how it’s not cool to troll and rudely harass people because you have personal issues with someone’s post. This leads me into my next topic, personal triggers. First of all, know what triggers you so you can be cautious and avoid it! The world does NOT care about you, your feelings, or your personal issues for that matter. So if that is the bubble you’re living in then prepare for a lifetime of raw and unpleasant triggers.
...HEAR ME OUT, BECAUSE TO GRASP THE ENTIRETY OF THE SITUATION YOU NEED TO SEE IT FROM BOTH SIDES.
But before you move on to another page cursing this article and me about being “unfair” or “unkind” towards your feelings hear me out, because to grasp the entirety of the situation you need to see it from both sides. This one bookstagrammer made a piece of art on her arm and gets bum rushed with comments from strangers telling her what she needs to do. How she needs to apologize and needs to take down the photo because they were personally triggered by golden lines that took them to places they didn’t want to remember. If you were in her position and had taken the time to do all the work she did would you be so quick to take it down?
The thing is, if we forget how far we’ve come as individuals then we regress back to what we were before. If we do not learn from our past mistakes and face them head on (or avoid them if that’s what you want) then what was the point of our progress? What do we have to look back on? We should not see someone else’s artwork as bad because it reminds you of something you don’t want to remember. It should be thought of as a reminder of how far we’ve come as people, not as our past nightmares back to haunt us. This girl has nothing to apologize for. That post could have been her way to cope with her personal demons, or it could have been just a fun idea to remake a book cover on her arm. Who cares! She has a right to express herself and do as she pleases with her own social accounts and the content that is put there. No one has the right to make someone be sorry for something they aren’t sorry for. So before you decide to comment excessively or rudely, think about how you cope with your dark places and if that would be offensive to others.
Now onto the novel’s own controversy, misinterpretation of POC in Roth’s highly anticipated novel (shake my head) I bet a lot of people were shook when they heard of this, especially her POC fans (myself included). I have not read this book and honestly I am still contemplating if I will ever read it. But because I am me, I will probably read it so I can see it all for myself and then be offended. Then, I’ll come back here in a later issue running on angry fangirl fuel and write about just how offensive it was to me. Maybe, maybe not, we shall see. But keep a lookout because I just might. By now you’re probably wondering, how is Carve the Mark offensive? Well, first of all people with darker skin tones (the Shotet) are known as savages in this world while the lighter skinned people (the Thuvhe) are known as kind and technologically advanced. But, that’s not it! They are described as brutal and violent, even their language is said to be harsh while the Thuve language is known as beautiful. Next is one of the examples that annoys me the most. It is the fact that YA authors are scared to write POC main characters.
On a planet where violence and vengeance rule, in a galaxy where some are favored by fate, everyone develops a currentgift, a unique power meant to shape the future. While most benefit from their currentgifts, Akos and Cyra do not—their gifts make them vulnerable to others’ control. Can they reclaim their gifts, their fates, and their lives, and reset the balance of power in this world?
The main character (Cyra) is described as having loose curls that fingers could easily go through, but her mother has kinky hair that can trap your fingers. First of all, that is straight up black hair. I know cause my hair fits that description pretty well, but that the fact that the author took these measures to make a main character not as ethnic, but not technically white either by saying they are mixed race. That is fine, there is nothing wrong with being mixed, but the fact that authors are scared to admit the race of their characters in general is a problem. But this is a topic for another day (*wink*). There’s also the fact that Cyra was told that the reason her gift causes her pain is because of the violent tendencies of her people. If you aren’t convinced of the problems in this book yet google Carve the Mark and words like “racist” will fill in after it, as it did for me. Fangirls, fanboys, fanfolk, if we as a community put up with ignorant books like these we will never see any change in the quality of our literature. We are the only ones who can bring change in this community, so if we support harmful books like this then we will never get better, never read better, and never learn better.
Back to topic #1 to conclude, I know that if I read this book I will be triggered. That is why I am treading carefully and being aware of how this could affect me, along with weighing my options. Now my advice in the beginning, know what is harmful and triggering to you so you can be careful and handle the situation accordingly. We shouldn’t be shaming/hurting each other over personal issues.
How do you feel about the fact young adult books give bad representation of POC? Most of the young adult books I have read give a bad representation of POC. They describe young black males as thugs and thieves. Ghetto. And they describe young Mexican males as nothing but border hoppers and gangsters. This is not an accurate representation of young people if color and I think it is offensive and people should change the way they look at poc and different races all together. Poc are normally viewed as the bad guys and that's not true. So I think people should change the way they write young adult books. -Tatyanna McCray
The Lit. List
Keeping it lit with lists about everything from the best antiheroes to favorite fictional realms.
Enchanting Fictional Realms 1. Khorasan (The Wrath and the Dawn by: Renee Ahdieh) 2. Avalonia (The Last of the Firedrakes by: Farah Oomerbhoy)
Book Boyfriends 1. Rhysand (A Court of Thorns and Roses by: Sarah J. Maas 2. Legend (Caraval by: Stephanie Garber) 3. Thorn (Roseblood by: A.G. Howard)
3. Isla de los SueĂąos (Caraval by: Stephanie Garber)
Advocates of Diversity on Booktube Photo by LenaArtq
1. Christina Marie
*Photo by Taratjah
3. Francina Simone
Hyped Fandoms 1. ACOTAR Fandom 2. Mortal Instruments/Cassandra Clare Fandom 3. Six of Crows Fandom
*Photo b y Charlie Bowater
2. My Name is Marines
WHAT INSPIRED MOONBURNER? My inspiration for Moonburner was loosely based on China’s One Child policy, which led to generations of Chinese families choosing to have boys over girls. It made me think: what would happen in a world where families didn’t want girls because those girls had some magical ability that was forbidden? This led to the premise of Moonburner, where Kai, the main character, is born into a land where magic is forbidden to women, and she is forced to masquerade as a boy to hide her powers.
WAS MOONBURNER YOUR FIRST TITLE IDEA?
INTERVIEW WITH CLAIRE LUANA WE TALK TO THE AUTHOR OF MOONBURNER ABOUT HER NOVEL, THE WRITING PROCESS AND HER UPCOMING WORKS.
Somehow, the moon and sun dichotomy just seemed like the right approach in a book about the power of women versus men. The title Moonburner really just came to me in a flash. I think it’s true what they say about the muse striking you! IF MOONBURNER WAS MADE INTO A MOVIE WHO WOULD YOU WANT TO STAR AS KAI? I imagine Grace Park playing Kai, my main character. WHEN DO YOU THINK MOONBURNER'S SEQUEL WILL BE OUT? I just finished editing Sunburner, and it should be launching in August 2017! DO YOU SEE YOURSELF WRITING IN ANY OTHER GENRE THAN FANTASY IN THE FUTURE? Not really! I love to read fantasy, and I don't see myself writing anything that doesn't have a magical element. I do have an idea for a middle grade historical fiction book based on my grandmother's childhood, but I plan on weaving an element of magic into that, too. WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF GETTING PUBLISHED? I found it very challenging to decide how to publish. There used to be just one path--traditional publishing. Now there is traditional, indie publishing, self-publishing and everywhere in between. Different paths are right for different people based on what their goals are for their book, and so it took some soul-searching to decide what I was hoping to get out of Moonburner, and then research what type of publishing was the best fit. Ultimately I chose publishing with a smaller indie publisher because I wanted to bypass the often yearslong process of getting an agent, hopefully get some more personalized attention from my publisher, but also skip having to learn how to create and format a book on
$16.95 for a paperback on Amazon and $6.99 for an e-copy. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG WRITERS READING THIS INTERVIEW? Read a lot and write a lot! There is no better way to learn how to write than by doing, except reading! You will soak up a LOT of what you need to be a good writer by reading books in the genre you plan to write in. Also, connect with other writers and book lovers in person. It's so easy to only hang out online, but when I actually meet with other writers in person at a class, conference, or critique group I get SO much more out of it! These writing friends will be there to commiserate, support you, strengthen you writing, and hype your book once it comes out!
WHAT HELPED YOU SURVIVE WRITING THE FIRST DRAFT OF MOONBURNER? Thinking about how good it would feel when it was done, haha! The first draft was a huge experiment and learning experience for me, but I think what helped me get through was focusing on just getting words on the page, and knowing that I could change it later. It's really easy as a new writer to psych yourself out and want to write the perfect book. In reality, no one's first draft is perfect! As one writer said, you can't edit a blank page.
10 Best Asian Inspired Fantasy Books By: Claire Luana Ever since I was a little kid, me and my family hosted Japanese students, I’ve had a special place in my heart for Asian culture. My Japanese “big brothers” introduced me to a new world of sweeping calligraphy, honor-driven samurai, and mythical creatures unlike any I had seen in western fairy tales. I think that’s why when I set out to write my first book, Moonburner, the Asianinspired setting felt right. If you’re like me, and can never have enough Asianinspired fantasy in your life, try some of these favorites! 1. Cinder, by Marissa Meyer. This one-of- a-kind fairytale retelling imagines Cinderella as a cyborg on the mean streets of New Beijing. This book has it all —handsome princes, evil space queens, deadly plagues…this sci-fi future will be unlike anything you’ve ever read! 2. A Mortal Song, by Megan Crewe. This book set on the slopes of Mt. Fuji turns typical YA tropes on their head. Sora is a kami, a magical Japanese spirit who is fated to protect her people and all Japan from a ruthless horde of demons. Or is she? It turns out she’s really a human switched at birth with no magical powers at all! Dun dun dunnnn… 3. Serpentine, by Cindy Pon. This sweeping tale is set in the kingdom of Xia, and tells the story of Skybright, a handmaiden to a wealthy girl, who begins to notice some very alarming changes (cough *snake-tail* cough). Filled with Chinese mythology and magic, Skybright’s story of transformation will enchant you! 4. Stormdancer, by Jay Kristoff. This steampunk fantasy follows Yukiko on an impossible journey to capture a legendary beast thought to be extinct. The lush worldbuilding and snappy dialogue between Yukiko and a certain not-to- benamed- cuz-I- don’t-want- to-spoil- it character makes this one a favorite!
5. Bridge of Birds, by Barry Hughart. This hilarious book tells the tale of wise man Li Kao and Number Ten Ox (you read that right) as they try to find the cure for a mysterious illness. Irreverent and charming, I promise this medieval mystery is unlike anything you’ve read before. 6. Monstress, by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda. This art-deco- steampunk graphic novel is just flipping gorgeous! It tells the story of Maika, a teenage girl struggling to understand the trauma of war and her psychic link with a monster of deadly power. With 11 volumes currently out, this one will keep you happy for days! 7. Shadows on the Moon, by Zoe Marriott. Is romance more your thing? This book is touted as Cinderella meets Memoirs of a Geisha, and features 16-year- old Suzume, who is trained in the mythical art of shadow-weaving, which allows her to recreate herself in any form. Full of mystery, illusion, and heart-break, this book is haunting and heart-wrenching in one go. 8. Eon: Dragon-eye reborn, by Alison Goodman. Lovers of dragons and epic fantasy will be delighted by this read, which features Eona, who has disguised herself as a boy in order to become trained in dragon-magic. Will she find her dream, or her doom? 9. The Twelve Kingdoms: Sea of Shadows, by Fuyumi Ono. Translated from the original Japanese, the blurb for this one says it all: Once confronted by a mysterious being and whisked away to an unearthly realm, Yoko is left with only a magical sword; a gem; and a million questions about her destiny, the world she's trapped in, and the world she desperately wants to return to. If you want truly inspired Asian fantasy, look no further than this series! 10. Forest of a Thousand Lanterns, Julie Dao. Releasing October 2017, this much- anticipated debut features Xifeng, who must choose between a destiny full of dark magic and the boy she loves. Definitely don’t miss this one when it launches!
What
Reading Means To Me Teens express their love of reading.
Mariah Gatewood "I won’t sit here and claim to be the biggest book lover on the planet, I don’t read too much if I’m honest. However, every time I do read, I always have a different view on life. A book, despite it being fictional, is always very relatable. There are these people with feelings; these characters that have highs and lows in life. There are always protagonists and antagonists. There isn’t always a happy ever after. Sometimes the main character Angel Salinas will pass away tragically. Sometimes a character will be heartbroken and depressed. "Reading to me means getting to Sometimes, everyone will be happy. These are all things that I’m sure every single one escape the real world for a while. of us can relate to. There is always a moral to discover in each story. Each moral will be Reading means living the fantasy I different to other people. That’s okay, it’s supposed to be that way. Every book has a wish I could live in. Reading is different story to tell, a different lesson to teach. Some books can do it in 100 words or witnessing the 'grand tale' of these less. Some books require 800 words. Both are capable of stimulating your mind. It just characters. It means being the blows my mind to think about. We can read the same 554 words, and we will all have beautiful princess or being a different views about it. In summary, reading to me, is a chance to learn and to enhance dreadful queen." my thoughts, values, and mind."
Xochitl Fernandez “Reading for me is a way to transport myself into a different world. When reading you can be anything and anyone you want. All of your worries go away and you can feel the magic people have put into the books. When reading a book you may cry, laugh, smile, or even get angry because books are not just stories but are alive.”
Damaris Mireles "Reading is what some people would call a hobby. While its not just a hobby that many people enjoy nowadays. Reading is gateway from this reality that many grow exhausted of. A deep breathe after struggling with life. A portal that takes us away from all our disappointment. A way to dry our tears from the pain we encounter. A horse to flee from our overwhelming lives. But reading is not only just a way to run, but a way to hope and find new light. To see how no matter whom we are we CAN reach what we desire. Reading means finding light in the darkest, scariest and loneliest of times. A way to fly when we are told we are meant to walk. Reading means to see the impossible come to live. To believe and achieve when we are told we are to fail. To borrow hope from those we read about and follow their example in fighting for our dreams. To read means to believe that everyone sees everything different. Reading means to see things differently than the average person. To see that there is ALWAYS two sides to a story. Reading means not giving up on our dreams against the norms and those who oppress us. Reading means finding a welcoming arms and a colorful world where other people just see black and white words."
From Page to
SCREEN!
Before I FallÂ
As the first YA adaptation in forever, this movie was a shock to us. This book is an oldie (but a goodie) that we didn't expect to be coming to the big screen. If you have read the book or are only interested in watching the movie it will not disappoint entertainment wise, while it still manages to do justice to the book. DVD Release: May 30th
Fallen Who knew about this, because I sure did not! I have never read the books due to hearing bad things about them, but this movie has me hyped to read them. I committed the crime of watching the movie before reading the book (don't hurt me please)! But I feel if you are looking for a fun and mysterious movie and aren't afraid of being left hanging on parts then this is for you. It is unclear when this will be released in the US, but it is out almost everywhere else in the world.
Everything Everything As this is one of 2017's most anticipated YA movie adaptations, the hype is huge and everyone in the book community has been fangirling over the trailers. We are in the process of reading the book and so far we can't spot any major differences aside from the main character's way of communication. In theaters May 19th
The Raven boys Universal Cable Productions has the television rights to Maggie Stiefvater's The Raven Cycle. The author herself tweeted April 10th, "I thought this was still a secret, but I GUESS NOT ANYMORE.� Executive producers will include Michael London (worked on sideways) , Andrew Miller (known for The Secret Circle), and Catherine Hardwicke (who is attached to direct the pilot and directed the first Twilight film).
The Hate U Give (THUG) REVIEW By: Alecia Taylor The Hate You Give (THUG) by Angie Thomas is an amazing novel that addresses the elephant in the room, one of America’s most negative impacts on the African American community, police brutality. In this realistic fiction, we are taken on a journey by a 16 year old girl named Starr Carter who witnesses her best friend getting shot by a white officer because the officer assumed he was armed. This exact incident happens on a daily basis throughout America and what happens? The police officer is allowed to walk free while the victim’s family is left without justice. Starr tried her best to not let that happen to her best friend Khalil. She gives a statement to detectives, she testifies, she even leads a riot in Khalil’s honor.
The Hate U Give has been #1 on the NYT list I highly recommend any person of any race to read this book. I for four weeks recommend this book for debate classes or book clubs because it is an awesome discussion book. It is important that not only African straight!!!
How do you feel knowing that YA is now incorporating important topics like the Black Lives Matter Movement?
Americans read this book, but people of all races because it reveals the process of dealing with senseless murder. However, the book can get emotional especially within the first 50 pages, but it is totally worth it! I also recommend that this book only be read by mature preteens and up because of its dialogue and mature situations. This book should be read by everyone in our society so we understand what it’s like through a teenager’s eyes. Awesome job with this book, Miss Angie Thomas! “I think with more and more teens reading, having something that is right on the spot for things that are going on right now is perfect. It will maybe open the eyes of those who don’t understand or aren’t experiencing it, and also be something for those who do experience to say that finally someone gets what they are dealing with.” -Lisa Mandina
“I feel proud and encouraged that books have incorporated important topics like the Black Lives Matter Movement. Not only does it allow for people to open their eyes towards this very hard and controversial topic "I feel that it was an important step into becoming but it opens the doors to allow not only deeper stories but for authors to more rounded and shedding light on these real world incorporate more controversial topics into their writing. Although many issues. Most YA books that I've heard about haven't books do have these things in them they only graze the surface in fear of pressed this topic or any that affect people all around the public’s disapproval. Topics such as the Black Lives Matter Movement the world. I feel like this is an important movement." not only adds to what we love in books but also gives me hope for the -Faith Burrell future…” -Damaris Mireles
Why You Should Utilize the Library More
How often do you use your local library? Do you only use it for books you aren't sure you'll like? Or maybe do you always go to the library for reading material. Either way here's why you should go to your local library way more than you do. By: Damaris Mireles
First off, you feel a stronger urge and need to read the books you check out. This is a main focus of mine and reason as to why I check out. Nothing gets you reading more than a good book with an intense plot and due dates. I am a person who at times needs a little push to get myself to read books I've heard nothing about, even the ones that a lot of people have read. After finishing a book you just feel the dread and loneliness that comes with finishing an amazing book, so much that you have no idea what to do with yourself. When you get books from the library there is always that little constant reminder that the books have to be returned so this kind of gives you that small shove you need to start a book you have no knowledge about or are unsure of. Second of all, it’s basically free. This is a big one. Library books, meaning *T.V. ad voiceover* "No purchase necessary!" Other than fines if they are late…But if you avoid that you basically have a place to borrow books for free. The only problem is if they have a check out limit…50 materials in my case. They say ONLY 50 but I need more books, DUH! Who doesn't? Next, if you don’t like it you can just put it back where it came from. Here’s another thing that is amazing, if you check out a book and don’t like it nor ever get around to reading it, you can just return it. This is something you can’t do if you own the book. If you bought and read it (roughly) then there are no returns and you have to live with the book mocking you from your shelf where you could have placed a series you actually like. Plus checking out is like a trial thing, you check it out and if you like it you can go ahead and buy it to keep forever.
Now for the one we all have issues with, it doesn’t take up shelf space! We as readers value our shelf space. whether its so they look nice for our Bookstagram pictures or just because that’s the respect and love they deserve. Shelf space is extremely valuable. So when we buy books we need to make sure that valuable space is honored by the best books we can collect. So by checking out books from the library you get to read them only with temporary shelve space drama. Lastly because you get to meet other people who like reading. Going to the library can at times be like going in the middle of the desert…its empty…..quiet…dead…with tumbleweed rolling around. Although its quiet and at times extremely empty you know who goes to the library for fun. Booklovers! It’s not like most people go to the library for “fun” unless you’re like me and want to live there forever and ever surrounded by books. So if you see someone at the library and they start collecting the books they will check out, you might want to try starting a conversation to see if your suspicions are right about them being a booklover, you just might make a new friend!
High Schooler Creates Literary Publishing Club Have you ever been interested in running your own club or self publishing? Maybe combining them both? Meet Caroline Meek, our latest inspiration, the author and club creator of the YWKC (Young Writers of Kansas City) as we talk to her about self publishing, the club, and her future as an author. The YWKC is a club that connects writers at Sumner Academy to talk about their latest works, hone their skills with writing prompts, and they publish an anthology every year with short stories, novel excerpts, and poetry.
When did you first discover your love for literature? It’s kind of like learning to speak...you don’t really remember the first time. My parents read to me starting from infancy, and literature was a huge part of their curriculum when I started homeschool in kindergarten. From there on, I started reading on my own, like….constantly. Eventually my mom started having to hide my book so I wouldn’t just spend the whole day reading and ignore my schoolwork.
Who are some of your favorite authors and/or poets?
Why did you create the YWKC club, and what was your intent in doing so?
I love Maggie Stiefvater, both as a person and as an author. Her book, Scorpio Races, is probably my favorite standalone novel ever, and her Raven Cycle series is one of my favorite series. Arielle Estoria is my favorite poet - her spoken word has been one of my greatest inspirations.
When I first came to Sumner Academy, there wasn’t much in the way of creative writing. Edit: There weren’t any active clubs or support for creative writing. There were, however, definitely a large community of people interested. So my sophomore year, I found a sponsor and a few people willing to be a part of it, and we started meeting. It’s grown a lot over the last three years, but my goal has always been to create a space for writers to find other writers. To not feel alone, because writing is often such a solitary activity. It’s so helpful to have other people around you that share the same passions and can give you honest critique about your work. I’m happy, because I believe this club has grown into the diverse, silly, talented family I always hoped it would be.
What was the process for self publishing like and how are the sales? Self-publishing involves a lot of….self. It’s both a pro and a con to be in charge of your own design, promotion, formatting, etc. I’ve used CreateSpace, an independent publishing company through Amazon. After the manuscript is ready, you’re able to upload it, design a cover, and figure out the technical details. CreateSpace is pretty costeffective and easy to navigate. Sales depend on how well you promote yourself! As self-publishing is usually most helpful for authors whose audience is their own community, friends and family, you definitely want to do a lot of talking to those people.
Where do you hope the club will be in 5 years? In five years, I hope the club will be still active and growing. I hope it will be able to help writers even more in terms of improving their skills and learning from each other. I think we have a really strong foundation, so now it’s just time to keep it going. It’s also always been a dream of mine to do something with other USD500 schools. It’d be cool to have a version of the YWKC club in every high school, or possibly publish things together.
Is there anything you wish to change about the club or something you feel you could have done better? I feel like I could have done more with the technical side of writing. We did a lot of sharing and fun activities, but there could have been more critique, to help us all improve.
Are there any books by just you coming out that we should look forward to in the future? I’m currently working on a contemporary novel, but not planning on self-publishing. It’s more of a long term project that I hope to eventually publish with a traditional publishing house.
When you wrote The Drawing in of Breath, was it hard making decisions with your coauthor/working as a team? I’ve worked as a co-author with multiple people over the last few years, so I’ve kind of gotten used to it. There are always those awkward times when you’re not quite on the same page as them, and you have to do a bit of negotiating. But I think respect is a really important factor in a successful co-author relationship, and I have so much respect for my two coauthors. With that established, there aren’t too many disagreements and everything moves pretty smoothly. You end up finding each other’s expertises, and settling into a rhythm that allows each person to do what they do best, and you trust that.
What advice do you have for aspiring writers? No matter how many other words there are in the world, competing, overwhelming, overshadowing...yours are still important. Don’t give up on a dream because you don’t think you can do it. Dreams don’t deal in certainty. They’re based on emotion and passion and determination. So shoot for whatever sky you’re aiming towards, and believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid to share that piece of yourself, because most of the time, someone really needs it. Change the world. And by that I don’t mean all 8 billion people….change someone’s life, even if it’s only one person, because that changes their world. You are beautiful.
The YWKC's first three anthologies and Caroline's co-written novel (on the right).
Spring Clean Your
Bookshelf
There are many reasons as to why we need to rid our shelves of books that are just taking up space, even though we don’t want to. We are book-lovers. Our books old, new, read, and unread are what makes our shelves who they are, every bookshelf has a personality depending on the stories it holds. But there comes a time when you need to get rid of some of the books that just don’t speak to you or your shelf anymore. It happens to us all, the book purge as some call it, but let’s just say spring cleaning because that is a gentler way to put it. Letting go of books can sometimes be a sad and painful experience depending on the owner (pretty much a description of myself). Here are three ways to clear shelf space for the upcoming season of book releases. First, there are the books you hate. We all have them even though they are so few, those stragglers you wouldn’t mind burning can take up a lot of space. This is the easiest way to start your cleaning because you don’t mind the fact you are getting rid of books you paid good money for. If you start happily getting rid of those books you just can’t stand, then it won’t be hard to continue on because you aren’t as attached due to having no remorse on the books you hate. This helps you effectively start your cleaning and not be sorry about it Next, you have the “meh” books. Books you have read that just didn’t stick with you, you read them and just thought they were okay. This is where not being selective comes in because you know you didn’t love the book and therefore have no reason to keep it on your shelves. Let’s be honest with ourselves here, will you really read that “meh” book collecting dust at the bottom of you shelf again? Do you like it enough to keep organizing and looking at it forever? Would you prefer to give it to someone who would love and cherish it? Ask yourself these things and find out how much you really want to keep that “meh” book. Since literally every book-lover has a book they thought was “okay” this should apply to virtually everyone. Now, if you have been fortunate enough to love everything with a spine then maybe the next tip will help. The final tip, ditching books you haven’t read and will probably never read. This is the hardest part because if you are that book-lover who pays for all of your books then this is very difficult and the effective remorselessness of the first tip has worn off by the time you get to this final stage. You want to keep these because “what if” right? But you have to sit down and reason this out (oh my god I sound like my dad). That book that’s dustier than your attic that you bought five years ago is still sitting on your shelf waiting to be read. Do you really think you are going to get to it? You keep checking out from the library or buying those tantalizing new releases which keep you from that oldie you never got to. Be like Elsa and let it go! You have plenty more books you will probably read sometime soon. In conclusion, follow these tips and attempt at effectively spring cleaning your bookshelves. It may be difficult, especially if you are the clingy type of book-lover but you’ll survive and free up an ample amount of shelf space.
What Kind of Reader Are You? Are you new to the book world or don't know what kind of reader you are? Take this quiz and discover who you are in the reading world!
1. How often do you read? a. Sometimes (you like reading but don't have much time or energy to do it).
2. When you first start a book you.....
a. Mention is to a friend
b. Rarely (you don't have much drive to read and only do so when your in the mood) .
b. Sit it on your shelf and forget about it (after a few chapters of course)!
c. All the time ( you can't keep a book down)!
c. Post all your reactions on social media.
4. Your bookish candle gets knocked over and starts a small fire on your bookshelf.. How do you put it out? a. a fire extinguisher, you books are slightly crinkly and need to be wiped off. b. a glass of water, the books are practically ruined ( a few are readable) but hey, at least your house didn't burn down! c. a blanket, you smother the fire at all costs! You must not damage the books!
3. You need a bathroom break when you hit an amazing chapter. To hold your place you use... a. A receipt b. What is next to you c. That new bookmark you just bought
5. What are your book buying habits like? a. You buy used paperbacks sometimes, but use the library for the most part. b. No buying, PERIOD. Only library books for you. Who needs to own books? c. I get money, go to the bookstore, leave with a bag of books and an empty wallet. Reapeat.
Mostly A's: You aren;t a diehard fangirl, but you do enjoy the occasional good read. You may even recommend it to a friend. Mostly B's: You hardly ever read and when you do it must be absolutley neccesary. You barely consider yourself a part of the bookish community and wouldn't care that much if a bookshelf got burned to ashes. Mostly C's: You are addicted to young adult fiction! You are a fangirl who cares for your books as if they were your kids and loves spreading the word of what you read (this magazine is for you)!
King's Cage Lookbook
Find your inner fangirl fashionista with these astonishing looks inspired by the latest book in the Red Queen Series, King's Cage.
The Red Queen This is the classic Red Queen look that symbolizes my image of Mare and what would be in my mind the look that defines who the Red Queen is and what she stands for. The Red Queen is very symbolic to the whole series, especially the first book. The symbolism of the name changes and develops with each installment, it represents what she becomes and how she evolves as a person and a red blood with powers.
These outfits are what I would imagine Mare wearing if she lived in our world. The top outfit is a casual but loose fitting and comfortable outfit. While the other is a bit more dressy and good for warm weathered areas like the Stilts.
The Making of a Quality Sequel See what Farah Oomerbhoy has to say about writing her novel, getting published, and what's to come for her as an author. What inspired you to write The Last of the Firedrakes? Books and literature have always fascinated me. One of the first books I ever read on my own was Enid Blyton's The Magic Faraway Tree. Since then I was hooked and proceeded to devour anything fantastical that came my way. From the magical worlds of C. S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia series, to T. H. White’s A Once and Future King and Tolkien's Lord of the Rings series. Books with an element of fantasy and magic have always fascinated me and influenced the way I look at literature today. J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, Roald Dahl’s Charlie & the Chocolate Factory, Diana Wynne Jones’ magical worlds, Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland books, Ursula le Guin’s The Earthsea Quartet and J.M Barrie’s Peter Pan, have all in some way contributed towards my love for magical adventures and fantasy worlds inspiring me to write fantasy for young people. There are many others that have influenced my writing in this genre. David Eddings' The Belgariad series and Terry Brooks’ The Sword of Shannara made me realize the true extent and scope of epic fantasy. Tamora Pierce's Song of the Lioness Quartet was very instrumental in the creation of my main character Aurora. It made me better understand what fantasy looks like with a young girl as the hero. These books inspired me to write a story that would combine the best of all I had learned from these wonderful stories, and so The Last of the Firedrakes started to take shape.
If you had to choose a favorite part of your fantasy world what would it be? That would definitely be the kingdom of Elfi. And you will get to explore more of these lands in book 2, The Rise of the Dawnstar.
When do you hope to have the third (and sadly) final book out to your fans? I’m working on it. Hopefully it won't take as long as the last one. :)
The long awaited sequel to the Avalonia Chronicles! Availiable now!
Was the main character Aurora Firedrake inspired off of someone special to you? When I first created the world of Avalonia I envisioned a magical fairy market, it was the first scene I thought of. But it was only when I stood before a tapestry in my grandmother’s house that I realized that the magical market could easily be in the forest depicted in the tapestry. It was at that moment that Aurora Firedrake came to life in my head. Aurora is not based on anyone I know. I wanted my main character to be one whom young teenage girls could relate to. But at the same time, I wanted her to be strong willed and capable and someone whom they could look up to as well. Aurora is sixteen-years-old; she’s an ordinary girl living an ordinary life. But when she is thrust into a magical world unprepared, that’s when her character starts her journey of discovery. It is not only a journey of learning about the world of Avalonia and its many societies, cultures, and magic. It is also an inner journey for Aurora, a journey of life. In essence this is a coming of age story, and revolves around a time in Aurora’s life when she has to learn to grow up and face life’s responsibilities on her own. She's very naive at first and she is brave and curious too, not always the best combination. She ends up making mistakes and gets into trouble just like a regular teenager would. And her transformation from a naïve teenager into a queen, will take some time.
What do you hope fans will take away after reading The Rise if the Dawnstar?
What was the process of getting published like for The Last of the Firedrakes?
I think the tides of fantasy are changing. Previously a male dominated genre, there are many wonderful, strong female protagonists that are paving a new path for fantasy, with a woman as the hero; unafraid, powerful, a leader of men, not a secondary character who appears only a few times in the story. I hope readers relate to Aurora and the struggles she faces and at the same time be in awe at what she can achieve. The main theme of the whole series is, nothing is impossible. That there is always a light at the end of the tunnel and with hard work, courage and a steely determination you can achieve anything. You just have to have faith in yourself.
When the book was still in its first draft stage I discovered the wonderful world of Wattpad. With over 16 million users every month it is the largest free e-reading site in the world. I decided to upload my book on the site one chapter at a time to try and gauge interest in the book. From almost the first day my reads started escalating, readers from all over the world loved the story and would wait every week for me to update a new chapter. Soon my reads reached the 100,000 mark and I started appearing on the top of Wattpad’s hot lists, finally getting featured on Wattpad as one of their most popular books. Now, The Last of the Firedrakes has over two million reads on Wattpad. After the wonderful response, I queried a few publishers in India who were not interested due to the small market for fantasy here. I was keen on keeping creative control over my first novel, and independent publishing was the best option at the time. That’s when I contacted Wise Ink Creative Publishing who has a wonderful team of editors, cover designers, proofreaders and formatters who helped me create the best possible version of my book.
If your book got turned into a movie who would you want to play the lead and would you like to cameo in it? I don’t think I’ve found anyone who can play Aurora as of yet, I’m still looking. But I have the perfect person to play Rafe – Henry Cavill. I would love to have a cameo in it. :)
Is there anything you can tell us about the third book that can can keep your fans at bay until the release? Well, in book 3 Queen Morgana will be even more powerful, and Aurora is going to have her work cut out for her. But now that she has friends and allies to work with she does have a fighting chance to save Avalonia from ultimate darkness. But it will all depend on the choices she makes. Hopefully she will choose wisely in book 3. :)
What advice do you have for aspiring writers? Keep writing. You can’t edit a blank page.
What was your writing process like for the sequel?
It took me about three months to write the first draft, and a lot longer to edit it and get it ready for publishing. Building the world of Avalonia takes time, and everyone in the story has a role to play. Everything from the magic systems to the history of the world has to be mapped out before hand to avoid inconsistencies. Once the setting is created it is a lot easier to write the story within it.
What do you plan on writing after The Avalonia Chronicles is over? At the moment I write YA fantasy, and I think I will continue to do that with certain variations. I’ve always wanted to write steampunk fantasy and fairytale retellings, so let's see where that takes me next. :)
Available on B&N, Amazon, Wattpad, Smashwords, and all e-reading platforms!
Zodiac Sign Based Recommendations Learn which book character is most compatible with your zodiac sign and fall in love with their stories! The main character of each book is chosen by their personality and their actions based off of the traits of each zodiac sign.
Sagittarius
Like Avah you are openminded and an achiever with a loving side, but you also can be insensitive and cold when needed.
Virgo
Like Rani you are successful and like to please. You're very clever and can lead others.
Capricorn
Leo
You and Rhee are hardworking You are popular and creative and straightforward. You're like Lilik. You are very loyal to those close to you but prideful in what you sometimes stubborn. You are do and can be dominating at content to make it to the top. times.
Taurus
You're down to earth like Ciardis and have great taste. You're also a pleasure seeker that can be stubborn.
Cancer
Like Vhalla you're sensitive and practical, but friend oriented. You hate to argue and forgive but never forget.
Pisces
Libra
Scorpio
You are alluring and free like Aurora. You can't function well without your friends and have a bit of a sensitive side.
Like Rune you are lavish and irresistible. You are adventurous and at times indecisive which sometimes leads to a complicated love life.
You and Star are self-reliant and powerful. You're wise and secretive but can give off an air of dominance.
Aquarius
Gemini
Aries
You are an innovative trendsetter who is distant but admired and a little bit eccentric like Vika. You are the queen of being yourself!
You and Mei are dynamic and have many talents. You like games and are mischievous but can be twofaced at times.
Like Ava you are extremely independent and brave. You are assertive, impulsive, and hate to be restricted.