Wendy Mass: Super Non-fiction Writer for Young People
inside and out, and it will be easier to make them come to life.
8. SR: What is your advice on how to handle rejection as a writer?
WM: Rejection is tough, no matter how you look at it. I used to work as a book editor, so I know what it's like on the other side of the desk, and I think that helps. Sometimes a book is rejected purely because the editor already has something similar coming out, or there is just not enough room on their list for the next few seasons, or the story just didn't ring a bell with them. I try to remember that it's so subjective, and when the book lands on the right editor's desk, everything will work out. I read the letters and file them away. Sometimes an editor will have good advice about something in the book, and then I might consider doing a revision, so in a way, sometimes a rejection can be a good thing. How's THAT for putting a positive spin on it? :o)
9. SR: What is your favorite children's book? Who is your favorite writer? What are you currently reading?
WM: The Chronicles of Narnia and the books by Edward Eager were my favorites as children, and then Judy Blume and Paula Danziger as a teenager. I don't know that I have one favorite writer-Ray Bradbury awes me with his talent. I am currently reading the Artemis Fowl books, which I love! I try to keep up with the new children's and YA writers so that I don't start working on anything too similar.
10. SR: Can you describe a typical writing day for you? Since reading good books is a big part of writing can you estimate how many books you read in a month? What part of the writing process do you enjoy the most? The least?
SR: There really is no typical writing day, since at any given time I could be taking notes or doing research for a new book, facing a writing deadline, or revising something for an editor. I do spend most of the day in front of the computer. I don't read other books at all when I'm in the middle of writing one. It's too distracting to hear other people's voices and writing styles in my head. The part I like the best is the actual writing, but only when it is flowing and the
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