Plus enter to win a signed copy of Worth the Wait 
!
Hi Readers! I am so excited to kick off a new series I am beginning this month in which I will feature different Young Adult authors and their books. I love Young Adult fiction, and as many of you know I am currently working on my own YA novel. I am thrilled to have this opportunity, so without further ado please welcome fellow ACFW Member and YA author, Laura Jackson!
About Laura Jackson…
I love books—reading and writing them. As an elementary school librarian, I get to spend most of my day sharing great books with kids. After work, I write my own stories to share.
When I’m not surrounded by words, I love watching sports. I’m a huge Rockets fan, and I love the Texans.
I’m passionate about Jesus, books, trees, and cupcakes. I love to hear from readers, so please find me on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Tumblr, or on http://authorlaurajackson.blogspot.com/.
The Interview…
Why do you write?
The characters would follow me around until I do. Ha! You get an idea in your head, and it’s like it lives there until you do something with it.
Why young adult fiction? What is most appealing about writing for this demographic?
I taught middle school and loved it. I love the adventure of finding out who you are, and I think the most important journey is finding out who we are in Jesus.
What are your writing rituals, if any?
Nothing that I know of. I work full time, so my writing schedule is whenever/wherever I can.
Favorite Book/Author and why?
Sold
The best thing about being a writer?
Hearing that something you wrote impacted them. It’s amazing, and I don’t think it will ever get old.
The worst thing about being a writer?
Putting yourself out there for people’s rejection.
What tools do you/have you used to study the craft of writing?
James Scott Bell’s
Would you rather read a good book or write a good book?
Read one—less work!
Favorite literary character of all time and why?
Cammie in Ally Carter’s Gallagher Girls Series
Best time of day to write and why?
I work all day, so I write mostly at night.
Do you write by the seat of your pants, plot first, or a little bit of both?
I really want to be a plotter, but alas, I am not. In fact, right now, I’m about to hit the gym, hoping an hour on the elliptical can help me figure out what to have happen next!
What keeps you motivated?
Now that Worth the Wait is out there, reading people’s reviews/comments/messages about it keeps me going. People have been amazing, and I’m so thankful that they’re enjoying Ellie’s story.
What is your goal in writing?
I read a lot of YA, and even the best stories often leave out the most important part of life’s journey—Jesus. So, my goal is to write coming of age stories where girls find out who they are in Jesus.
Can you share a little bit about Worth the Wait?
In Worth the Wait, Lindsey is a mean girl. I wanted to know why. So, I’m telling her story, and I love her.
Self-published or traditionally published? Which is better, in your opinion?
I haven’t signed a contract on it, but since Worth the Wait is traditionally published, I hope to go the same route.
I don’t think either is better. I think they’re different, and people have to go with what works for them. I don’t have the patience or time to figure out how to self-publish, so I’ll probably stick with traditional publishing for now.
How do you balance your writing life and everything else?
It’s a balance act that I’m learning. I don’t think I have it down yet!
Any words of wisdom you would like to share with aspiring YA authors, such as myself?
Have your work edited professionally. It’s a huge help. I’ve hired Rebecca Miller a few times and loved working with her. It was worth the money to learn those lessons.
A Bible verse that encourages you in your writing?
Phil. 4:11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.
I want to be content with God’s plan for me. I spend too much time thinking about how it should be instead of being grateful for how it is.
Name one thing you have learned in your growth as a writer.
I think I queried too soon. I could have learned a bit more before sending my story out there.
Connect with Laura!
Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Tumblr
Email: laurajacksonwrites@gmail.com
Blog/Website: http://authorlaurajackson.blogspot.com/
The Giveaway…
Laura has graciously offered to give a signed copy of Worth the Wait to one of you, my readers! Thank you, Laura for your willingness to share your work and experience with us today!
Enter via the Rafflecopter now through Monday, March 31st . One random winner will be chosen and announced in my April newsletter (so be sure to sign up in the sidebar widget if you haven’t already).
Also, be sure to leave a comment or question for Laura below! Until then, happy reading!
Yours in Messiah Yeshua,
S
Disclosure:
I have not read the book featured in this post. This post also contains affiliate links. To learn more, please read my full policy.
Copyright © 2014 SaraElla.com
Wow what a great interview! It made me giggle Laura when you say your characters follow you around until you write about them! I really like that! Thanks for the giveaway!
I laughed at that one too, Laura P! I can totally relate though:)
Lol, it makes you wonder if you’re losing your mind. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by!
Good interview! I am curious about being traditionally published but without a contract. I thought all traditional publishers required a contract. I guess I still have a lot to learn about the publishing industry. 🙂
Hi AJ! I was curious about that too. I had no idea traditional publishers worked without contracts sometimes.
I was referring to Lindsey’s story….haven’t signed a contract for that story. I thought the self-publish/traditional publish question was about the book I’m currently working on.
Yes, I did sign a contract for Worth the Wait.
Sorry it wasn’t clear!
I love that–helping young girls find who they are in Jesus! Congrats on the book, Laura, and much luck going forward :).
Hi Katie! Thanks for taking time to comment. I’m with you and Laura on leading girls to the Savior. It’s all for Him!
Thanks, Katie. 🙂
Great interview. I wish you well. I agree reading is a lot easier. Right now, my mind feels drained, so I’m taking a break & reading about you.
Thanks for stopping by, Janet! I agree with you both:) I would much rather read. It’s like taking a breath of fresh air from writing.
I’m glad I’m not alone—felt very lazy answering that way, but I value honesty. :
Laura! So Sara and I recently connected through the main loop on ACFW and I end up on her site to find you here!!! =D You know what I think of this book (well, mostly Josh haha) and when I can I want to come back and read this interview. HUGS ladies! =)
Hi Nancy! Thanks for stopping by and for all your help this month.