a story about my choice to become an author...

My stomach flipped upside down as I walked into yet another new class. I was finally in third grade, but like every other year, I was in a new school and I didn’t know anyone. Every set of eyes wandered over me causing my skin to burn. There were a lot of people in my new class.

I didn’t like being the new girl again, but I was thankful that this class was rather welcoming.

Moving from place to place only emphasized my need to please others and I always wanted to do my best to make the teacher happy with my hard work.

One month after starting at my new school, my teacher pulled me aside to speak with me. "Emma, I can see that you enjoy reading and writing."

My cheeks heated as I nodded.

“You're at the top of the class, and you're very helpful. So, I've selected you and one other student to receive a special reward because of your good grades and extraordinary citizenship.” My teacher’s eyes lit up. “Would you like to go to the Children's Literature Fair?"

I nodded eagerly.

I had no idea what a Literature Fair was, but I was instantly excited. I desperately hoped my mom would let me go.

Ten days later, I hopped out of my teacher’s car, excited to see what a Literature Fair really was. The building was filled with tables and shelves of brand new books to purchase. I was excited to find there were some books I wanted to read, but was let down when I realized I would have to pay for them. I didn’t have any money.

Instead of purchasing books, I choose to hear authors speak about how they write fiction. Listening to the enthusiasm of each speaker became all I could focus on.

An overwhelming urge took me over.

I decided then and there that wanted to be an author someday and write books. I wanted to have my books out on those shelves. I wanted to tell stories just like them.

After attending the Literature Fair, my life changed forever.

An empty void within myself—one I didn’t know existed—found pure joy that day. Surrounded by books and authors, I’d entered a new world that lived within my imagination, and I knew it was the place I would always want to be.

Fast Forward 20 Years: 

There's a need in all of us to become something. For me, it started in third grade. I wanted to write novels. I didn't know how and I didn't know when, but I did know that my life would revolve around writing one day.

Fate has finally spit me out on my dream's doorstep. I'm ready to expose the insanely crazy imaginative spirit that dwells within my soul. I write a vast array of fiction because I allow myself to expand upon the ideas that inspire me, and I cherish every moment as I journey through the unknown.