Interview with our current Writer-in-Residence, Laura Rees

Did you know that the Associates has a Writer-in-Residence? For the last 14 years, the Associates has offered a $20,000 fellowship for emerging authors. The recipient is selected through a blind judging process and spends at least 19 hours a week working in their private office at the BPL's Central Library in Copley Square during their nine-month residency (September through May). At the completion of their residency, they submit a complete manuscript to the Associates. All variety of projects are eligible for this program, including fiction, non-fiction, a script, graphic novels, or poetry, intended for children or young adults.
Since we just opened applications up to select the next Writer-in-Residence, the Associates sat down with our current writer, Laura Rees, to find out the inner workings of a young adult writer.
Associates: Hi Laura! We're so happy to have you here as our writer. Do you mind introducing yourself to our readers?
LR: Hi everyone! My name is Laura Rees and I'm originally from Beloit, Ohio. I studied English at Malone University in Canton, Ohio, and after graduation I freelanced in Hawaii for a few years before moving to Boston. I currently work part time for Harvard Business School and am finishing my master's degree in Literature and Creative Writing at Harvard Extension School.
Associates: Have you always been a writer?
LR: I was always "the writing kid." I had a babysitter who was really good at illustrating, so together we'd create all sorts of stories. I still have boxes of them! I always wanted to be a writer.
Associates: Speaking of writing, how is the book going? Can you share how you came up with the idea?
Associates: Have you always written for young adults?
Associates: What's been the biggest challenge of writing this book?
Associates: One thing that every writer struggles with is writer's block. What's your trick for overcoming it?
Associates: And on the flip side, what's been the best or most exciting part of this fellowship?

Associates: I love that piece of advice! And I'm sure a good snack never hurts either. Do you have a favorite snack to munch while writing?
Associates: Where do you hope to be doing to be in 5 years? Still writing?
Associates: And if you weren't writing, what would you be doing?
Associates: Thanks for taking the time to meet with us today. We can't wait to see your books on the shelves!
If you or someone you know is interested in pursuing a writing career, applications are now open for our next Writer-in-Residence fellowship. Visit www.writer-in-residence.org to apply now.