Iloved Ashley Hope Perez's heartbreaking Out of Darkness set in late the 1930s in a small town Texas. It should win all the YA awards.

I'm sure other writers have no difficulties writing nice.

Some worked in collaboration with each other to produce comics as well as short stories.I was partnered with Anita Roy. We critiqued each other's stories. Hers is a corker: future Masterchef. I chortled. There's not a single dud in Eat the Sky.

If you're ever invited, fellow YA authors, go. It's the first YA con I've been to that was overwhelming populated by teens. Wonderful!

A difference in self loathing? Please. The only difference between a gun and a rope is the time it takes to tie the knot.

Speaking out and creating art that truly reflects the world we live in goes part of the way towards doing that. At least that's what I hope.

Blogging, I love you no matter how out of fashion you are.