The City of Ember Author: Jeanne DuPrau

At first glance, Jeanne DuPrau appears to be a writer who is charmed. Her first novel, "The City of Ember," was accepted almost immediately after submission. Not only accepted, but an auction was held because so many publishers were interested. What beginner's luck, right? Not long after this huge success, Jeanne has recently published a sequel to "The City of Ember," titled, "The People of Sparks". This second novel became available for sale May 25. Please head right out to the nearest library, independent publisher or other bookseller and get yourself a copy of each.

While Jeanne's good fortune seems to be an overnight phenomenon, it is not. Jeanne is a former English teacher, an educational publishing editor and a technical writer for Apple Computer. Jeanne also is the author of several nonfiction books. She has written about cells, cloning, adoption,and daily life in the American colonies. Another nonfiction book, "The Earth House," is a memoir of building a rustic home, her experiences with Zen philosophy and the unfortunate death of a close friend. Yes, Jeanne has paid her writing dues and her great success in writing is an inspiration to all of us who are interested in reading and writing for young people. Please visit her website:

http://www.jeanneduprau.com

Read Jeanne's fantastic books and study them as great examples of good writing and darn good reading.

1. SR: When you were young was there one adult who inspired or encouraged you as a reader or writer? If so, who and how?

JD: My mother inspired me in both ways. She was a great reader and also a very skilled writer. She encouraged me to read anything I wanted to read, and she read the writing I did for school and helped me with clarity and organization. Sometimes this was irritating--she'd say, "What did you mean here?" and I'd explain, and she'd say, "Well, why didn't you say that, then?" She made me look hard at my writing to be sure my words were clearly expressing my thoughts. This was enormously valuable. I also had a wonderful teacher in 7th grade who encouraged my love for the English language--for grammar, usage, vocabulary, diagramming sentences! I loved all that--still do. As for the imaginative side of writing, I think my inspiration for that came from books more than from any one person.

2. SR: Were you a reader when you were young and what were your favorite books?

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