I am heartened by the initial responses to my new book, Eddie's Choice, released November, 2019, During this time of increasing bigotry and hatred, Eddie's story and choices shine a light into the darkness of racial bullying and white supremacy that taints all too many campuses across our nation. According to Michael Cart, Booklist columnist and reviewer, “The combination of gentle love story and novel of gritty realism makes for a compelling read . . . and is sure to excite discussion . . . excellent for both classroom use and independent reading . . . this realistic non-didactic story allows young readers to gain a fresh perspective on the their own choices and attitudes, and those of the people around them."
My hope is that this eleventh book in the Hamilton High Series will gain a broad audience and help readers increase not only their understanding of the conflicts presented, but also of their own individual actions during these troubling times.
One way to expand the reach of Eddie's Choice, and other significant books, is through connecting readers to authors. I'd love to visit your school or library and talk with your readers.
Check out the blog page If you want specifics about recent school visits. Scroll to the bottom for contact details.
General Information:
Where do you get your ideas? Does Lauren (If You Loved Me) ever take Tyler back? Did any of that stuff that happens in your books ever happen to you? I stayed up all night to finish Baby Help. How long does it take to write a book? You should write my story....
I never tire of engaging with teen readers, answering their questions, hearing their responses, considering their ideas. I love getting the emails that say: “This book (But What About Me) helped me think about where my life was going—a place I didn’t want it to go.” Or, “Detour for Emmywas the first book I ever read all the way through and now I’ve read three more of your books. I want to read them all.” I appreciate the emails and I always, always answer them. But as much as I love that process, I love even more talking face to face with readers at high schools and middle schools.
Over the years, besides visiting numerous California schools, I’ve visited schools across the nation, including in New York, Texas, Washington State, Florida, Illinois, New Mexico, and Ohio, and have enjoyed talking with reluctant readers, aspiring writers, college bound and alternative school kids, those in ELL, Special Ed, and Teen Pregnancy/Parenting programs.
Every presentation is customized to meet the needs and interests of students at specific sites.
My fees vary according to individual circumstances and locations. If you’re interested in a school visit or a workshop, please contact me with details at [email protected].
