Write because you love it!

I write because I love it. Early on, I wrote with publication in mind, and at times I caught myself chasing what seemed to be selling. I was even advised by a former agent to study what was being published and write to match the trend. I realized I can’t work that way. I’m older now, and I’m inspired by the stories I grew up with. Give me Charlotte’s Web, The Cricket in Times Square, or anything by Roald Dahl, and I’m home.

I did publish one middle-grade novel, The One Great Gnome, and I loved every part of the process. It found its way into print, some people read it, and that alone felt worthwhile. But being noticed has its own quiet rewards. One day I received an email from a third-grade teacher who read excerpts of my book to her class. She told me the students always looked forward to the next chapter. Knowing they enjoyed it made the experience even richer.

So write because you love it. The rest is a bonus.