This morning I went to a book signing of Lisi Harrison, author of the YA series "The Clique." I got her latest book "Charmed and Dangerous" signed! I'm a fan of books I'm too old for such as the "Gossip Girl" series by Cecilily Von Ziegesar and the "Violet" series by Melissa Walker. I feel that YA books are more honest and raw compared to chick lit. I still remember vividly all the issues I dealt with in my teen years. And, I feel that I have a young sense of fashion and a keen eye for trends. I'd love to take my experience in designing/illustrating juniors t-shirt graphics and illustrate YA book covers and teen mags... Not such a far stretch!
It was inspiring to hear Lisi Harrison talk. In her own words, she took a wandering path to where she is today. After 12 years of experience working as a development executive at MTV, she had a chat with folks from Alloy Entertainment (who later produced the movie based on "The Clique) about her concept that all of us are the same age emotionally. The gossip, cliques, and competition that she experienced while working for MTV was the same thing emotionally that she experienced in middle school!
Lisi's books are a commentary on how people, at any age, strive for acceptance and will do absurd things to be part of the "in" crowd! The first thing Lisi does in the process of writing is she figures out what message she is striving to convey. Lisi recommends budding writers to do the same. Figure out what you are passionate about and what you are trying to comment on. Further advice to writers is to pick one person you trust to show your work. Don't show it to everyone! Pick someone who is constructive and has a good sense of what you are trying to achieve. Also, when submitting your work, do research before sending it in. Send work to publishers who already publish the type of work that you want to do!
I will definitely take Lisi's advice to heart when I'm ready to submit my art to publishers! I'm not *quite* ready to send off my work to publishing companies. I'm doing my background research, like Lisi suggested! It was inspiring and rad to meet her. I admire writers so much! Someday I might explore writing, myself. For now I'm following my own wandering path into the next foray of illustration!
Great blog post, Aileen! And do invite Lisi to the OC Illustrators!
Posted by: Marilyn | November 14, 2009 at 02:29 PM
Good thoughts, Aileen. I'm also very much a fan of things I'm too old for! It would be cool if Lisi came to one of our meetings. Sounds like she has some great advice.
Posted by: Cara | November 15, 2009 at 08:53 PM
Hey Marilyn and Cara! : ) Thanks! I sent Lisi an email but it might be a while before she responds! I guess just wait and see if she comes? Anyway, I will see you two on Saturday!
Posted by: aileen | November 18, 2009 at 06:06 PM
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Posted by: JensenDarla18 | March 28, 2010 at 04:31 AM