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Interview with Laura Jackson

Laura Jackson started out teaching seventh grade English/Language Arts then returned to school for her Master's. She now is a librarian at an elementary school. She writes Christian Young Adult.

What or who inspired you to become a writer?
My students. I always loved writing, but it became more important when I taught. I loved seeing stories through their eyes and writing with them.

Where did the idea for Worth the Time come from?
Lindsey was the mean girl in Worth the Wait, and I wanted to know what made her tick. Why was she so hateful? So, I wrote her story to find out.

Has your writing required any research? What type?
As a new writer, I wanted to be able to focus on the writing aspect of a novel, so I set it in Houston, where I live. So, I had less research to do.

Why did you choose to write stories for the Young Adult audience?
I tried writing a romance novel, and it was horrible. So, I decided to write my favorite type of book—a YA novel about a girl finding her way in life, discovering who she is in Jesus.

What type of books do you read for pleasure?
Everything! As the libarian at an elementary school, I read a lot of children’s books. I also love YA, romantic suspense, chick lit, mysteries. Okay, I love just about anything.

What type of theme or message do you hope readers will take from this book?
That they are important to God. The creator of the universe has time for them and pursues them with His love.

How do your faith and spiritual life play into the picture and affect your storytelling?
My faith affects everything. It changes how I see the world, so it impacts how I write. I want to tell a compelling story, but more than that, I want to point people to Jesus.

Reflecting back, what do you see as most significant to your publication journey?
Giving up on the romance book I started. Sometimes you have to give up on what you thought was right to find what God has for you.

Do you have your own writing space? Describe where you write.
I write in my bed, surrounded by pillows and listening to sports radio. One day, when I have a house, I’ll have an office. But for now, I’m comfy.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
Read. Write. Read some more. Reading helps you develop a sense for the pacing of a novel. It also helps you learn what good writing is and what it’s not.

What other parting words do you have to share?
Thanks for having me.

No matter where you are on your writing journey, don’t give up. God’s plans for you may not be what you expected, but they are good.

Thanks for sharing with us, Laura Jackson!




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