From the silent horror of an image-obsessed teenager starving herself to perfection to the hilarious humilations of a freshman forced to endure fencing class, each of these stories is a very personal and creative response to a simple question: Where do writers get their ideas?
The answer? Anywhere and everywhere.
Each story was specially commissioned for this collection, and included an introductory essay by the author explaining the story’s origins in the author’s life–and its significance.
Contributors include: Jerry Spinelli, Betsty Byars, Paul Zindel, Jon Scieszka,
T.A. Barron, Tamora Pearce, Mary Ann McGuigan, Lois Metzger, Mel Glenn, Joyce Hansen, Rich Wallace, Joan Abelove and Eleanora E. Tate.
“Fiction isn’t about telling what happened. It’s about telling what is true.” —from “Duel Identities” by David Lubar
“A solid collection. Aspiring writers will especially delight in the introductory essays and what they tell about incorporating everyday experiences into fiction.” —School Library Journal
“Eclectic, engaging, and occasionally surprising, this collection will stimulate aspiring writers.” —Booklist
