What will I remember about 2020?

Sometimes I wonder what I'll remember about 2020. Most likely I will remember the anger and grief I felt on a regular basis. The stark realization that far too many people don't have the compassion and empathy for our fellow human beings in order to have the kind of society I long to live in. The truth laid bare during a once-in-a-lifetime national crisis that far too many politicians value power and wealth over all else.

But I believe (and hope) I will remember so much more. The music that lifted me and/or comforted me. The shows that made me happy and felt like a giant hug at a time when I really needed them, like Ted Lasso and Soul. The books and shows that lifted me up and took me to faraway places, like The Invisible Life of Addie Larue and The Mandalorian. The love and admiration for my family and friends that has only grown during this difficult year. Those joyful moments of dog walks, bike rides, and spontaneous day trips to soak up the great outdoors, because through the darkness, those light-filled moments feel infinitely more special.

I hope I remember that in the midst of it all, I was able to do that which I love to do -- write. What a treat to spend time with characters I grew to love, but in order to find them, I had to begin, and what an important lesson that is for me. I hope I remember how hard I tried to bring kindness and light to others. I probably didn't always succeed, but I tried and in the trying, I myself found light and joy. I am fortunate in that I have not struggled the way many have struggled. I give thanks for that fact every day. But we have all experienced loss this year, in some form or another. Still, because of scientists, medical professionals, bright minds, creative souls, artists, musicians, storytellers, dreamers, loving hearts, comforting paws, and my own sheer determination and resilience, I made it through. And if you're reading this, you did too. And I hope I remember the immense gratitude I feel for that.

(: me, on one of our daily dog walks)

Book trailer for Don't Judge Me

Last week I participated in a chat on twitter with teachers and librarians and many said they like to have a book trailer to show kids when they are talking up a book. So, with my limited iMovie skills, I made one! Feel free to use it at your school, and thanks for your interest!

Thursday thoughts with Lisa - dealing with your internal critic

Figuring out how to deal with the negative voice inside your head so you can get your writing down on paper is something *every* writer has to figure out. Knowing that it's there and isn't necessarily something you should listen to is half the battle! But there are some other things you can do too. 

In case you want an easy link to the Annie Bloom's pre-order going on, you can go HERE.

Here's a little sample from my upcoming novel, DON'T JUDGE ME!

DON'T JUDGE ME comes out in less than two months, on November 10th. This novel is about a 6th grader named Hazel who finds a notebook that rates girls on their looks. She knows she has to do something, and she can't do it alone. The wave she'll be making might turn into a tsunami, but if Hazel can find the courage to speak up, she just might change everything.

The first professional review is in and it's a nice one!

Pre-order at www.annieblooms.com and get a signed, personalized copy plus free gifts!

This week's video offers a tiny taste - watch as I read aloud!

Thursday thoughts with Lisa - the #1 thing you can do to improve your writing

I'm having a lot of eye pain this week for some reason so I'm not looking very well in this video, hopefully you will forgive me for that! But today I wanted to share what advice I give the most to kids who write to me and ask me what they can do to become a good writer. Can you guess what it is??? Find out in the video!

 

Thursday thoughts with Lisa - staying motivated during the 1st draft

Writing is fun until it isn't. And then it just becomes work. So how you do stay motivated while writing the first draft so you can FINISH it? I share a few tips in this video!

Thursday thoughts with Lisa - Book Recommendation: FROM THE DESK OF ZOE WASHINGTON