Many thanks to Mitali Perkins for her recent post entitled “How Kids Can Change the World.” It was a short post, but it touched many lives. Personally, I discovered a wonderful website about books for young readers (now defunct), read some powerful essays by Mitali and Hazel Rochman, and found a list of wonderful new books to read. This Thursday, I
Teens, pop on over here for more information about an essay contest that could help you “fund your dream”. Lisa McMann wants to know, “What is the greatest obstacle you’ve overcome?” Answer in 500 words or less and submit your essay to enter the contest. Lisa McMann and representatives from Simon & Schuster will choose one winner who will receive
A person I feel very fortunate to call my friend, the successful and talented Kevan Atteberry, recently wrote an article in the Chinook (the quarterly newsletter from the Western Washington region of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators) entitled, “On Being a Fraud.” I wonder if he’s read about the imposter syndrome, because he described it quite eloquently.
I have lived in many different places, had more than one career, and done a lot of different things. So, in case you’ve ever wondered… I cannot speak Swedish, and this is not me. Nope, neither is this, although it’s fun to see my name on Amazon. I do not write paranormal romance novels, although it sounds like fun and
The Staples Youth Social Entrepreneur Competition combed through a record-breaking 530 entries from 61 countries and chose 15 finalists who represent the best of the best. Check out the finalists and vote for your favorite here.
Starbucks and (RED) today announced a multi-year partnership that will give coffee lovers a chance to do good every day. Throughout the holiday season, Starbucks will contribute five cents from the sale of any of (Starbucks) RED Exclusive beverage (the three beverages that make up the Starbucks popular holiday trio) at all of their US and Canadian stores to the Global
Wow, I’ve been tagged! I don’t normally do this kind of thing, but I’d do just about anything for Jolie, so here goes: 1. What are your nicknames?One of my best friends called me Spoory Laur (since my maiden name was Laurie Spoor). I guess I’m not really a nickname kind of gal, though. 2. What was the first movie you
According to a recent press release: Borrowing private sector techniques, Do Something is issuing an IPO that promises significant Social Return on Investment (SROI). The growth capital investment will foster exponential growth and bolster the organization’s self-sustaining programming. OK, this is cool, but really just an interesting way to put out a call to donors and raise funds. Will it work?
Ashoka’s Youth Venture and Changemakers is partnering with Staples to launch their first global competition to recognize young leaders who are finding new ways to create positive change in their communities. They are seeking the most inspirational ideas and projects led by young people between ages 12 and 24. Spread the word about this initiative and nominate young leaders with
I just got back from my first ever SCBWI Summer Conference in Los Angeles, and besides all of the: inspiration and information to be soaked up “like gravy on a biscuit,” wonderfully creative, talented, generous, and adorable people, frivolous fun with friends old and new… the best part of the whole conference is that my teen nonfiction manuscript about how to save