Teenage Novels : An Interview with Bizymoms Top Blogger 2010 Recipients Steph Bowe

1. Why did you start this blog?

I wanted to be able to talk about books and writing! Luckily I discovered the awesome network of YA book blogs.

2. What sort of resources do you provide on teenage novels on your blog?

I write reviews and interview authors. I also do discussion posts about topics in YA.

3. Please tell us about your experience of writing a novel.

It was difficult! And times, it was painful (editing especially). But the times when the words flowed and the joy of getting published made all the difficult, super painful, and full of self-doubt times worth it.

4. Apart from writing the novel, what type of things does publishing a novel entail?

Lots of editing! Meetings with editors and publicity people, lots of planning for publicity and the next novel. Lots of stress!

5. Can you tell us how you do teenage book reviews? What kind of framework do you use?

I outline the novel, and then share my thoughts on it. I usually talk about what I regarded as the strengths and weakness and what sort of reader would like the book. I also note things like coarse language and sexual references, so that people know what's appropriate for them (a lot of younger teens read my blog).

6. What advice can you offer to other teens who want to follow your path and write a novel?

Just do it! It'll take a lot of commitment, and you might experience a lot of self-doubt (or have other people put you down), but just ignore it. You can do it! If you persevere, you'll make it in publishing.

7. How do you balance the work of writing, maintaining a blog and studying?

I have to prioritize. Studying always comes first, I squeeze writing in when I can and when I think I'm going insane from work, I blog.

8. Can you recommend a few of your favorite books which help teens to become good writers?

"Juicy Writing" by Brigid Lowry is excellent. "On Writing" by Stephen King is also fantastic.

9. What are your personal favorite teenage romance novels?

Everything by John Green and Melina Marchetta.