III. ON A PERSONAL NOTE…

Please cite two of your favorite classic and/or contemporary children’s books, including at least one MG/YA novel. What makes each unforgettable?

AH: Tuck Everlasting was one of my favorite books as a child, and I adore the timeless storytelling and Natalie Babbit’s flawless (and seemingly effortless) setup and execution. Wondering what the character of Winne will do, for example, really drives the story.
I Know What You Did Last Summer was also a favorite when I was a teenager—I loved trying to piece together clues, and Lois Duncan’s writing is pitch-perfect to the teen experience. It’s hard to get this voice just right. And I love a good, well-plotted mystery!

SS: (Opted out.)

How does meeting writers at workshops affect you, your perspective, your work? What do you enjoy about participating in writers’ events? Which aspects of this particular PCCWW event appeal to you?

AH: I am looking forward to connecting with writers and getting inspired. I think hearing about a writer’s process can only help to strengthen my understanding and role as a literary agent. I’m really looking forward to working with the teens in particular, and I’m curious to hear thoughts from other professionals.

SS: I haven’t participated in a writing conference in a long time—mostly for time and life reasons—but I remember the best ones are very hard work and also very energizing. It’s so good to talk with people who are thoughtful about storytelling and craft and reaching readers. I am curious about this workshop’s [open clinic format]—this is a new one for me and I hope I’ll learn even as I seek to contribute.

What would you like writers to know about you, the individual who scrutinizes (and may reject) their literary labor of love?

AH: When I connect with a book, so much has to do with timing, with that personal connection to a book, and with my own experience. When I pass, I’m not saying this shouldn’t be a book, I’m saying that we are not the right fit, and not right now. That is a very different thing. It can sometimes feel like I’m saying, “It’s not you, it’s me!” in my rejection letters, but I truly do believe that all stories and all writing are valuable and a huge accomplishment for each individual—so I try to be as encouraging and helpful as I can.

(Postscript) Thanks so much for inviting me to this workshop!

SS: I would ask and remind that editors (just like authors) need grace. We’re all juggling a lot. It’s important to remember that we will not see the thing sometimes, and that publishing is always subjective, just like a reader’s take on your book when it’s published!
Writing is an art, publishing is a business, but the people who do the work on either side are indeed passionate and creative and, in most cases, trying to do the best work they possibly can.

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