Last week I was lucky enough to be a guest speaker at the Bolingbrook Middle School's Writer's Conference, and the kids there were just awesome. Thank you to the wonderful teachers at the Valley View School District for asking me to speak.

The students involved in this conference were chosen for their accomplishments and interest in writing. I mean, is this awesome or what? To have a school district celebrate writing in this way. These students asked intriguing questions, laughed at my stupid jokes, and talked about books and characters that they loved. ANd while I was giving my talk on generating ideas, we had some really good conversations about things that work in YA novels and things that don't, and let me tell you, I was INSPIRED.

It is such a rare thing to get to be surrounded by people that love the process of writing, so I was just geeked out over the whole experience. These kids were so smart, so ready to conquer the world. I can't wait to read their best sellers in a few years.

Here's a picture with me talking with my hands too much. (And note to self, I keep wearing the same outfit to all my speaking engagements. Change it up!)

Next up: Downers Grove Bel Aire! Can't wait to meet you all!