My advice to would-be young authors is to read a lot, write a lot, and not worry about creating a finished product. Keeping a journal is not a bad idea either.

Try drawing or painting a scene you're working on. Often this will help free up you imagination.

My advice to would-be young authors is to read a lot, write a lot, and not worry about creating a finished product. Keeping a journal is not a bad idea either.

Didn't it make sense that after something horrible happens, something better should follow?

If we expose kids to books and art, nothing but good can come from it.

When I'm looking for an idea, I'll do anything--clean the closet, mow the lawn, work in the garden.

Now smile a real smile for me so I know you`re not suffering inside.