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88 Cups of Tea

Love all things upbeat, warm, and uplifting? Welcome to 88 Cups of Tea, an online platform and podcast for creative writers who look for guidance in their storytelling journey and connection to a community, fostering year-round conversations around the personal and professional life of a writer. Our podcast episodes and online essays and articles explore and unpack conversations that touch on topics like overcoming rejections and challenges, querying tips and crafting advice, lifestyle habits that support the heart and the soul, what it means to be Human while navigating a creative path, and more. We pride ourselves in nurturing a supportive environment that aims to encourage, inspire, and entertain. Check out our website 88cupsoftea.com for essays, articles, and access to nearly 200 podcast episodes!
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Now displaying: Page 7
Aug 11, 2016

“If you don’t know the craft, your talent can’t be unleashed.” -David Grae (click to tweet)

We have Executive Producer and TV writer David Grae on the show with us today! His episode is proudly brought to you by Gotham Writers. David started his television career as a staff writer on the Emmy-nominatedJoan of Arcadia. He has also been a writer on Without a Trace, Gilmore Girls andCastle. He is currently an Executive Producer on CBS’s hit show Madam Secretary. His play Moose Mating has received several regional and international productions and is published by Dramatists Play Service. He is also the co-founder of Gotham Writers.

In David’s episode, we really get to pick his brain about the TV industry, how to break in as a TV writer, and what goes on in the writers’ room at the studios. We also talk about the opportunities David created for himself and the importance of building relationships with people. We unpacked the business side of how David helped to start and build Gotham Writers from ground up, one of America’s leading private creative writing schools whose interactive online classes was selected “Best of the Web” by Forbes. 

Xo,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can inspire!

PPS. Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. When prompted, either enter your iTunes info on your phone, or click ‘Launch Application’ on your computer. Once you’re at the 88 Cups of Tea iTunes page, click on the tab that says “Ratings and Reviews”.  Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

 

“Writers write because you keep getting better the more you write.” -David Grae (click to tweet)

 

“Read books that inspire you.” -David Grae (click to tweet)

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • Building relationships with people in your field

  • Unpacking what spec scripts are and why writing one is your calling card into the TV writing world
  • How David created his own opportunities that led him to success
  • How writers come up with story ideas in the writing room
  • Exploring your talents and understanding your weaknesses
  • The difference between writing for comedy and drama
  • Why it’s so important to take a writing class to improve and strengthen your craft

 

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT DAVID GRAE:

David Grae started his television career as a staff writer on the Emmy-nominatedJoan of Arcadia. He has also been a writer on Without a Trace, Gilmore Girls andCastle. He is currently an Executive Producer on CBS’s hit show Madam Secretary. His play Moose Mating has received several regional and international productions and is published by Dramatists Play Service. He is also the co-founder of Gotham Writers.

 

DAVID'S RECOMMENDED BOOKS & RESOURCES: 

Adventures in the Screen Trade: A Personal View of Hollywood and Screenwriting by William Goldman

Phillip Roth

Writing Fiction: The Practical Guide from New York’s Acclaimed Writing Schoolby Gotham Writers Workshop

Writing Movies: The Practical Guide to Creating Stellar Screenplays by Gotham Writers Workshop

Aug 8, 2016

HEY STORYTELLER TRIBE!

Jumping in super quick with a special announcement—-88 Cups of Tea turned 1 years old TODAY! On August 8th! 

 

Please take a quick moment to listen into today's episode. I’m so grateful to you listeners for being there every step of the way of our podcasting journey. To celebrate together, we're hosting the most EPIC giveaway contest we've ever done.

DIRECTIONS FOR GIVEAWAY CONTEST:

1) The giveaway contest is held for U.S. residents only and it starts today on August 8th and ends on August 15th. 

 

2) Follow us on social media & share your favorite 88 CUPS OF TEA podcast episode

 

3) Tag a friend you think who would love the podcast.

 

4) Super important to tag @88cupsoftea and include #88cupsturns1

 

5) Good luck and have so much fun!

 

Thank you all for the incredibly touching birthday wishes and shout-outs so far— you guys are AMAZING.

 

Xo,

Yin

 

Aug 4, 2016

If you’d love to keep 88 Cups of Tea going strong, please consider supporting us through our Patreon membership. We added EARLY ACCESS TO INTERVIEWS for our Super Storyteller patrons in the $8.88 tier. Your kind support at any of our tiers is so helpful. A heartfelt thank you in advance.

https://www.patreon.com/88cupsoftea

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We have another amazing literary agent on the show! Molly Jaffa is a literary agent and the Co-Director of International Rights at Folio Literary Management in New York City. Her extremely selective and small list of clients include authors like Julie Murphy, a #1 New York Times bestselling author of DUMPLIN' whose novel is currently being developed into a teen movie by Disney.

In today's episode proudly brought to you by Vermont College of Fine Arts, Molly walks us through what it's like to be a literary agent on the daily, the kind of hard work it takes to advance in the world of literary agents, and of course we dive into the topic of query letters and what stands out to her. Writers, you don't want to miss this episode!

Xo,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Share it with someone who needs a boost of inspiration!

Could you help us spread the word about this podcast by clicking here and leaving a review? Your honest feedback not only helps others find the show, but it also helps to shape the show. Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

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“It’s really important that an author and an agent have the same editorial vision for a project.” -Molly Jaffa (click to tweet)

 

“To be a literary agent you have to be really entrepreneurial.” -Molly Jaffa (click to tweet)

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SAY 'HI' TO MOLLY: 

OFFICIAL WEBSITE
TWITTER
INSTAGRAM

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ABOUT FOLIO LITERARY MANAGEMENT: 

Everyone at Folio Literary Management strongly believes that books can and do change lives, and that well-told stories make a difference in the world. They are the people who help bring an author’s vision to life, and help open readers’ eyes to new vistas, new experiences, and new perspectives. For Folio agents, their work is not a job – it’s a passion and an adventure they dive into every day.

They like to think that at Folio, they have the best of both worlds. With over 20 agents, they have the experience, expertise, and strength people would expect from a company that is among the largest agencies in the business, but because of the types of people they attract, they have that same spark and ingenuity people expect from much smaller agencies.

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: 

  • Molly’s daily routine as a literary agent
  • Working your way up the ladder to becoming a literary agent
  • The characteristics a successful literary agent needs to have
  • Writing conferences where you can meet reputable agents and editors
  • How Molly pitches books to publishers all over the world
  • What Molly looks for in a query letter
  • Creating a query letter that is unique and stands out
  • Molly’s ideal agent-client relationship
  • Recommended writing conferences
  • Molly’s advice on improving your writing
  • How reading flap copies can help you improve your query letter

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LEARN MORE ABOUT MOLLY JAFFA:

Molly Jaffa is a literary agent and the Co-Director of International Rights at Folio Literary Management in New York City, where she has been since 2008. She represents exclusively middle grade and young adult fiction and nonfiction, along with the rare picture book. Her clients include Julie Murphy (#1 NYT bestselling author of DUMPLIN’), Jeramey Kraatz (the Cloak Society series), Mahtab Narsimhan (MISSION MUMBAI), and Paula Garner (PHANTOM LIMBS, forthcoming from Candlewick Press in September 2016).

 

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MOLLY'S RECOMMENDED BOOKS AND RESOURCES: 

Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy

Side Effects May Vary by Julie Murphy

Phantom Limbs by Paula Garner

DFW Writers Conference

Nebraska Writers Conference

SCBWI

 

 

Jul 28, 2016

“Even when we seemingly don’t have anything, we still have so much to give each other.” -Lily Wilson (click to tweet)

We have a special episode today that’s near and dear to my heart. A huge part of why this podcast was created was to help listeners with actionable advice for their writing goals. A majority of our episodes touch on the business side and the how-to of getting ahead with a creative career. Rarely do I get to talk about the artistry in creativity and the almost-spiritual sense of creating art with our innate gifts.  Today’s episode is a gem because we’re bringing it back to the basics about why we’re even creating in the first place: Why we must create for the livelihood of our souls and for the world.

Today’s interview features Lily Wilson, our first musician on the podcast! It’s incredibly eye-opening to see how art, from music to writing, has the power to connect us all at the very core of our experiences. Lily describes the heart-warming moment she shared with a kind homeless man named Charlie, and how they inspired in each other a second chance at life.

We discuss the hurt and darkness that engulfs us artists when the rug is tugged right out from under our feet, how we can find healing, and what it takes to resurrect our deep love for creating and making that art. We talked about goals and plans; the freedom in not having any and going with the flow, that following our intuition can, more often than not, lead to opportunities and abundance that we ourselves could not foresee.

Storyteller Tribe, I felt my heart expand in this one. Listen in and give yours a good stretch.

Xo,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can inspire!

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“I just love being around art. I’m really fueled by that.” -Lily Wilson (click to tweet)

 

“To be in that safe space, I personally need to be where someone can’t hear me.” -Lily Wilson (click to tweet)

 

“I’m really just so drawn to people who have talents that I don’t have.” -Lily Wilson (click to tweet)

 

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WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: 

  • Disengaging negative inner voices

  • Awareness of unconscious mental blocks
  • Creating your artistic work in safe spaces
  • Recognizing and accepting your talents and strengths
  • How collaborating with another artist can bring out a creative side of you

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT LILY WILSON:

Lily Wilson’s music has a way of drawing the listener in and reminding us of the simple beauty of life. Her voice has been described as being “soothing in some other worldly way.”

On her newest release, “Harbour,” she says, “With all the craziness in the world right now, I am reminded of the things I have to be thankful for.  This group of songs feels like a twinkling harbour filled with welcoming front porches and real friends.”

Lily grew up on her family’s farm in Napa, California with lots of outside time and open space to roam and create.  Bands like Fleetwood Mac and Crosby, Stills and Nash provided the backdrop for her childhood, and influenced her deeply.  Her career in music started when she moved to Spain in college.  She was drawn to the Flamenco songs coming from gypsy caves above the city.  She started writing songs, and soon was performing on street corners, teashops, and clubs all over Andalusia.

Growing up in such a remote place gave her a hunger to collaborate and perform for larger audiences. Now based in Los Angeles, she has released five CDs independently, and is currently writing and recording with producer/ bassist, Mark Browne (Melissa Etheridge, Simple Minds).  She recently won the L.A. Music Awards “Best Female Vocal Performance” in the AC category, and she has been lending her voice to other artists’ projects as well.  She has performed and recorded with Melissa Etheridge, Beth Thornley, Kiki Ebsen, Philip Sayce, Kenny Loggins, Patty Griffin, and John Batdorf.

 

 

LILY'S RECOMMENDED RESOURCES:

Lily’s Newest Album “Harbour”

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz

Bandcamp

Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority

Los Angeles Fire Department

 

SAY 'HI' TO LILY:

OFFICIAL WEBSITE
FACEBOOK

Jul 21, 2016

“Imagine all the great writing that’s being done secretly by people who are ashamed to share it.” -Matt de la Peña (click to tweet!)

Exciting new episode today with the one-and-only Matt de la Peña!  Matt is one of the most grounded human beings and great observers of the world, and just so happens to be the 2016 Newbery Medal-winning author of Last Stop on Market Street.

Today’s episode is proudly brought to you by VCFA! It's filled with personal stories about creative and personal growth that will inspire you. We discuss a whole lot about being present and living in the moment, how our experiences and honesty in our work create vibrancy, pacing ourselves to avoid writer’s block, the impact of having mentors, and so much more.

Xo,

Yin

 

“I don’t even know what my books are about until I finish it.” -Matt de la Peña (click to tweet!)

“You will never finish a book if you don’t write the book.” -Matt de la Peña (click to tweet!)

“I think sometimes writer’s block is a function of looking at the big picture too soon.” -Matt de la Peña (click to tweet!)

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"Last Stop on Market Street"is the Winner of the 2016 Newbery Medal, a 2016 Caldecott Honor Book, and a 2016 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book, a New York Times Book Review Notable Children’s Book of 2015 and a Wall Street Journal Best Children’s Book of 2015.

Every Sunday after church, CJ and his grandma ride the bus across town. But today, CJ wonders why they don’t own a car like his friend Colby. Why doesn’t he have an iPod like the boys on the bus? How come they always have to get off in the dirty part of town? Each question is met with an encouraging answer from grandma, who helps him see the beauty—and fun—in their routine and the world around them.
 
This energetic ride through a bustling city highlights the wonderful perspective only grandparent and grandchild can share, and comes to life through Matt de la Pena’s vibrant text and Christian Robinson’s radiant illustrations.

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WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: 

  • Personal stories about creative growth and personal growth that will inspire you (and make your day!)
  • How reading changed Matt’s life and how it teaches the writer about the writing process
  • Living in the moment and how that effects us and our work
  • Vibrant work created from experience and honesty 
  • Breaking through writer’s block by pacing yourself and working on the “now”
  • How you and your work will benefit tremendously by ‘keeping it simple’
  • Mentorship and how its effected Matt and his career as an author

Learn More About Matt de la Peña

Matt de la Peña is the 2016 Newbery Medal-winning author of Last Stop on Market Street. He is the author of several critically-acclaimed young adult novels, as well as the celebrated picture book A Nation’s Hope: The Story of Boxing Legend Joe Louis, which was New York Times Top 10 Illustrated Book of 2011, a Booklist Editor’s Choice Best Book of 2011, and an SLJ Best Book of 2011. Matt lives in Brooklyn, NY.

Matt’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Powerful video of police officer’s response to ruthless police shootings (Must watch!)

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

Drown by Junot Díaz

Linda Sue Park 2002 Newbery Medal Winner for “A Single Shard”

Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai

Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Say ‘Hi!’ to Matt
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
TWITTER
INSTAGRAM

Jul 14, 2016

“If the end result is a book, then you are a writer.” -Harriet Reuter Hapgood

We have Harriet Reuter Hapgood on the show today! Harriet is a freelance journalist who has worked with Marie Claire, ELLE, and InStyle in the U.K. Teen Vogue named her debut novel, The Square Root of Summer, the “Best New Book of 2016”.  In today’s episode, we discuss writing about heartbreak, quantum physics and time travel, the heavy research process for Harriet’s novel, creating multiple layers of plot to enhance your story, and why it’s important to sacrifice our own personal ties with the story for the ‘bigger picture’. We even dive into what it’s like to have depression and anxiety, and how we as writers can push through and stay on course with our writing goals with special attention to self-care.  I’m so excited for you to learn about Harriet and her journey as a writer!

Today's episode is proudly brought to you by Gotham Writers.

“The voice in your head that says you can’t finish the book or that it’s not worth it, ignore that bad voice.”-Harriet Reuter Hapgood

“You have to sacrifice what you think should happen versus what is good for the book and what is good for the character.”-Harriet Reuter Hapgood

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • How Harriet weaves quantum physics into her novel The Square Root of Summer

  • Why you need to remove your personal connection from the story
  • Sacrificing what you want to happen in your story for what is best for your book and its characters
  • How to thread different themes together to create a multi-dimensional story without losing focus of your main theme
  • Harriet addresses writer’s block and gives us advice on how to use outlining to break free from it
  • Why self-care is so crucial to your happiness and success as a writer
  • How Harriet created a dream list of literary agents and pitched to them

Jul 7, 2016

“Success can be a moment, fulfillment is a lifetime.” -Renee Ahdieh (Click to tweet)

 

We have #1 New York Times bestselling author Renée Ahdieh of The Wrath and the Dawn and The Rose and the Dagger duology in today’s brand new episode brought to you by Vermont College of Fine Arts. We break down Renée’s character-driven writing process and delve into building multi-dimensional characters. Renée takes it one step further and generously walks us through exactly how she sets up a scene to highlight the main character’s attributes. It’s the perfect example of the infamous show-don’t-tell rulefor writers.

We discuss why it’s important to be responsible and respectful when writing about different cultures, and why we have to allow ourselves latitude in our writing. As if the episode couldn’t get any better, we dive even deeper and deconstruct what it means to have anxiety and how to combat it with gratitude and empathy.

Xo,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Share it with someone who needs a boost of inspiration!

Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

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“Your thoughts influence your feelings. Your feelings influence your actions.”-Renee Ahdieh (Click to tweet)

“If we’re not questioning ourselves, we’re not pushing ourselves to do better.”-Renee Ahdieh (Click to tweet)

“Everyone is the hero of his or her own story.”-Renee Ahdieh (Click to tweet)

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • Specific writing techniques to help build multi-dimensional character
  • How to write scenes that showcase a character’s attributes
  • When weaving in different cultures in our stories, why there’s a heavy responsibility in doing so respectfully
  • Combatting anxiety with gratitude and empathy
  • Creating room for freedom and spontaneity in our writing
  • Finding satisfaction and gratitude in our work as creatives
  • Why it’s crucial to set a clear purpose for your plot 

 

“You have to continuously challenge and question yourself." -Renee Ahdieh (Click to tweet)

 

“I think there are two types of writers, the architects and the gardeners. The architects plan everything ahead of time, like an architect building a house. They know how many rooms are going to be in the house, what kind of roof they’re going to have, where the wires are going to run, what kind of plumbing there’s going to be. They have the whole thing designed and blueprinted out before they even nail the first board up. The gardeners dig a hole, drop in a seed and water it. They kind of know what seed it is, they know if planted a fantasy seed or mystery seed or whatever. But as the plant comes up and they water it, they don’t know how many branches it’s going to have, they find out as it grows. And I’m much more a gardener than an architect.” -George R.R. Martin (the quote referenced in this episode)

 

 

Learn More About Renée Ahdieh

Renée Ahdieh is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Wrath and the Dawn and The Rose and the Dagger. In her spare time, she likes to dance salsa and collect shoes. She is passionate about all kinds of curry, rescue dogs, and college basketball. The first few years of her life were spent in a high-rise in South Korea; consequently, Renée enjoys having her head in the clouds. She lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband and their tiny overlord of a dog.

 

 

Say ‘Hi!’ to Renée
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
TWITTER
INSTAGRAM

Jun 30, 2016

“I want the work to speak for itself.”-Ameriie (Click to tweet)

We have Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, producer, and fiction writer Ameriie in this week’s brand new episode proudly brought to you by Gotham Writers! DRIVEAmeriie’s newest EP, is named one of the best R&B albums of 2016 by Rolling Stone. She also has a highly anticipated villain-themed anthology featuring stories and essays from some of today’s most popular Young Adult authors and influential Booktubers set to publish in July 2017, a brilliant concept might I add. 

In today’s episode, we dive into the fast-growing world of booktubers and its influence on young readers worldwide, why it’s crucial to push past our limits to grow as writers, we demystify morally gray areas, how she’s evolved as a singer-songwriter, and the tremendous amount of discipline she applies to her writing process and habits.

XO,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can help!

Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. When prompted, either enter your iTunes info on your phone, or click ‘Launch Application’ on your computer. Once you’re at the 88 Cups of Tea iTunes page, click on the tab that says “Ratings and Reviews”.  Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

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You need people around you to help you grow and to become better. Then hopefully you can be that way for someone else too.” -Ameriie (Click to tweet)

 

“If you’re a writer, you’re a writer because there is something inside of you that demands to be released.” -Ameriie (Click to tweet)

 

“Each of us have our own stories and our own perspectives, and we all fit to make a whole.” -Ameriie (Click to tweet)

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: 

  • The importance of crafting realistic human conditions in your stories

  • Ameriie’s writing process and habits that will inspire your own process
  • Ameriie walks us through the creative process of her anthology featuring some of today’s hottest YA authors and booktubers. Here’s a peek at some of the authors and booktubers: Renée Ahdieh, Soman Chainani, Susan Dennard, Sarah Enni, Marissa Meyer, Benjamin Alderson (Benjaminoftomes), Sasha Alsberg (abookutopia), Whitney Atkinson (WhittyNovels), Tina Burke (ChristinaReadsYA blog and TheLushables), Catriona Feeney (LittleBookOwl), and Christine Riccio (polandbananasBOOKS)
  • Why Ameriie chose the theme of ‘villains’ for her anthology
  • Why it’s important to surround yourself with people who will help you grow
  • Raising the bar for yourself and creating space for your writing to grow and improve
  • How Ameriie discovered the book-loving community on Youtube (Booktubers)
  • Ameriie’s querying process
  • A behind-the-scenes look at creating Ameriie’s newest E.P. “Drive”

 

Learn More About Ameriie

Ameriie is a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, producer, and writer of fiction. The daughter of a Korean artist and an American military officer, she was born in Massachusetts, raised all over the world, and graduated from Georgetown University with a bachelor’s in English. She began writing at the age of seven, stories of fairies and pirates and witches and phantoms. She lives mostly in her imagination, but also on Earth with her husband, her parents and sister, and about seven billion other people. She talks books and beauty on her YouTube channel Books Beauty Ameriie. And she is writing; always writing.

 

 

Ameriie’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Literary Rambles 

Aeon Timeline

Vicious by V.E. Schwab

NOS4A2 by Joe Hill

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

Glory O’Brien’s History of the Future by A.S. King

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August by Claire North

The Grownup by Gillian Flynn

The Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

The Vegetarian by Han Kang

On Writing by Stephen King

Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting by Syd Field

Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee

Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke

Books of Blood by Clive Barker

 

Say ‘Hi!’ to Ameriie
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
TWITTER
INSTAGRAM
YOUTUBE
GOODREADS

Jun 23, 2016

If you’d love to keep 88 Cups of Tea going strong, please consider supporting us through our Patreon membership. We added EARLY ACCESS TO INTERVIEWS for our Super Storyteller patrons in the $8.88 tier. Your kind support at any of our tiers is so helpful. A heartfelt thank you in advance.

https://www.patreon.com/88cupsoftea

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Oh. Em. Freaking. Gee.

What's with the eagerness?

[Cue drumroll]

We have our first-ever literary agent on the podcast proudly brought to you by Vermont College of Fine Arts! Not just any literary agent, but the President of New Leaf Literary & Media, one of the hottest and most sought after management and representation firms today. Joanna discovers and helps to shape the careers of talented and successful authors like Veronica Roth. For those who've gone MIA for the past several years, Veronica is the author of the DIVERGENT series, also an extremely successful Hollywood Blockbuster trilogy that Joanna's firm helped to shepherd into the world. FYI: You'll hear all about those specific details in Joanna's episode!

Joanna and I dive right into the heart of why she's a literary agent and we dissect her leadership skills as an entrepreneurial badass. A special note to fellow writers, this episode is L-I-F-E. We discuss agent representation, what it takes to be the kind of author that stands out from the crowd, Joanna's ideal client, how she likes to creatively work with them, and crafting solid query letters (Joanna even shares examples of rare query letters that have made her fall head-over-heels).

Get ready for an episode that'll blow your mind!

XO,

Yin

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Say ‘Hi!’ to Joanna
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
TWITTER
INSTAGRAM

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“You’ll never work at your best capacity if you’re constantly fighting against your weaknesses.”

 

New Leaf Literary & Media, Inc. is a non-traditional, full service management and representation firm that will be with authors and illustrators before and beyond the sale. A few of the writers and illustrators they represent: Veronica Roth, Leigh Bardugo, David J. Peterson, Margot Lee Shetterly, Kody Keplinger, Kara Thomas, Gabby Rivera, Soman Chainani, Melanie Conklin, Victoria Aveyard, and Elizabeth Rose Stanton. 

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • Joanna’s entrepreneurial journey building a strong foundation for New Leaf Literary & Media 

  • How to lead your team to success by leaning into your strengths instead of fighting against your weaknesses

  • How Joanna creates an inspiring, passionate, and soul-filling work environment for her team of loyal agents and staff
  • What Joanna looks for in potential future clients

  • Examples of query letters that immediately caught Joanna’s attention
  • Why it’s crucial to craft a query letter that reaches the central conflict
  • How Joanna works creatively with her clients
  • Examples of long-term goals that Joanna’s ideal client would have

Learn More About Joanna Volpe

Joanna represents all brands of fiction from picture books to adult novels.  Her picture book taste is the most eclectic, ranging from sweet to fun to smart to quirky. For other fiction (both adult and children’s) she has an affinity for stories that have a darker element to them, whether they be horror, drama or comedy. She’s not the kind of reader that needs a romance in her novels, though she does appreciate a good one.

On the non-fiction side her tastes are much more specific.  For children she looks for topics that captivate kids: biographies, animal-related stories, all sciences and history, etc. Joanna also has an affinity for morbid, weird or offbeat topics. In her adult non-fiction tastes she tends toward all things geek-related, foodie books, travel books, and general pop-culture and pop-science.

Jun 16, 2016

“Everyone finds their own door.” -Morgan Matson (Click here to tweet)

So excited to share today’s episode brought to you by Gotham Writers! Morgan Matson is the New York Times bestselling author of Since You’ve Been Gone, Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour,Second Chance Summer, and her most recent book, The Unexpected Everything.

Morgan received an MFA in Writing for Children from the New School and an MFA in Screenwriting from USC, so naturally, we dived into a juicy discussion about her experiences in grad school, and whether or not it plays a heavy role in a writer’s success. 

Morgan’s episode is a writer’s dream: We dissect the step-by-step writing processfor The Unexpected Everything. And there’s lots and lots of talk about writers’ retreats, character building for character-driven stories, pushing past “road blocks”, pen-names, writing prompts, and more.

Enjoy!

Xo,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can help!

Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. When prompted, either enter your iTunes info on your phone, or click ‘Launch Application’ on your computer. Once you’re at the 88 Cups of Tea iTunes page, click on the tab that says “Ratings and Reviews”.  Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

 

“There’s a crack in the foundation. Go back and fix that before you keep building the house.”-Morgan Matson (Click here to tweet)

“So much of writing is being in a quiet place with your brain and trying to focus it.” -Morgan Matson (Click here to tweet)

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • Morgan shares her experiences and thoughts about grad school, and if it’s necessary for the writer’s success

  • How writers’ retreats hold you accountable for your work
  • Why it’s crucial to receive notes about your writing from others and how it has specifically helped Morgan with her own writing success
  • All about pen-names and how Morgan uses her own- Katie Finn
  • The inspiration and research process behind The Unexpected Everything
  • How to avoid a “writers road block”  
  • The legalities of implementing emojis into a book
  • How Morgan builds her characters for her character-driven stories
  • Steps you can take to help further you with your writing
  • Writing prompts!

“If you get stuck, just say what you’re feeling.”-Morgan Matson (Click here to tweet)

 

Learn More About Morgan Matson

Morgan Matson is the New York Times bestselling author of Since You’ve Been Gone, Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour, Second Chance Summer, and her most recent book, The Unexpected Everything. Morgan received an MFA in Writing for Children from the New School and an MFA in Screenwriting from USC. Her novel Second Chance Summer was awarded the California Book Award. She lives in Los Angeles with her dog Murphy.

Morgan’s Recommended Books & Resources:

On Writing by Stephen King

Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg

This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

David Magee screenwriter of Life of Pi and Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day

“The past is only the future with the lights on.” Quote found in the song “Baby Come On” by Plus 44

Freedom Distraction-Free Software

Say ‘Hi!’ to Morgan
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
TWITTER

 

Jun 9, 2016

“I had to learn to be the writer. The storytelling came naturally to me.”

We have the lovely Debbie Macomber in today’s episode, proudly sponsored by Vermont College of Fine Arts! Debbie Macomber is a#1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. Debbie’s novels have spent over 950 weeks on the New York Times bestseller listwith ten of these novels hitting the number one spot!

Debbie and I discuss the inspiration behind her newest book A Girl’s Guide to Moving On and her adult coloring book, The World of Debbie Macomber: Come Home To Color. We’re giving both of these books to one lucky winner!Contest instructions below.

Debbie also walks us through her experience being on set of the first dramatic scripted Hallmark Channel TV series inspired by her Cedar Cove Series starringAndie MacDowell.

For fellow writers, you’ll love the writing advice shared throughout the episode:Learn the five words Debbie uses to determine the success of her work,  apply the techniques Debbie uses to improve plotting, pacing, and character introductions, learn how to not let ego get in the way of your writing, and a whole lot more juicy writing and creativity tips!

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GIVEAWAY CONTEST INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Listen to the episode and find out the name of the librarian who gave Debbie the first book she ever read (this is a super fun surprise!)
  2. Tell me the name by reaching out to me on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Be sure to tag me @88cupsoftea so I can find you.
  3. One lucky winner will receive a copy of A Girl’s Guide to Moving On and a copy of The World of Debbie Macomber: Come Home To Color. Have fun and good luck!

----------

Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can help!

Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

 

------------

 

“We have to be challenged to grow.”

 

“I’m here to tell a story.”

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • The first book Debbie read was handed to her by a young librarian from her hometown (AND YOU WON’T BELIEVE WHO IT IS!)

  • A technique Debbie uses for her own writings that can help youimprove plotting, pacing, character introductions and much more

  • How implementing reader feedback has opened doors to even greater success for Debbie

  • Five words that can help you decided if your story ideas will be a hit amongst your readers
  • Why it’s crucial to not let your ego get in the way of your writing and how that positive mindset has attributed to Debbie’s tremendous success
  • Debbie’s experience on the set of her Cedar Cover series starring Andie MacDowell

Learn More About Debbie Macomber

Debbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 950 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Ten of these novels hit the number one spot.

In 2016, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publications include A Girl’s Guide to Moving On, Sweet Tomorrows, and Twelve Days of Christmas and an adult coloring book, The World of Debbie Macomber: Come Home To Color. In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published two bestselling cookbooks, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.

Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and five have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Serieswhich the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.

Macomber owns two businesses in Port Orchard, WA, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove Series. These include the Victorian Rose Tea Room, featured in the Cedar Cove Series, and A Good Yarn Shop, introduced in her popularBlossom Street novels. They are located on the Village Square campus, which also serves as Debbie’s corporate headquarters.

She and her husband, Wayne, serve on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, and she is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington and winter in Florida.

Debbie’s Recommended Books & Resources:

The Wolf and the Dove by Kathleene E. Woodwiss

The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty

The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck 

Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh

The Bible

Making Faces by Amy Harmon 

Say ‘Hi!’ to Debbie
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER

 

Jun 2, 2016

“As language creators, when you meet other language creators for the first time, it’s both exciting that you have people to talk about this with, and super disappointing because you realize you’re not unique.” –David J. Peterson 

Today's episode is proudly brought to you by Gotham Writers.

David J. Peterson is a conlanger who’s created languages for HBO’s Game of Thrones, Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World, MTV’s The Shannara Chronicles, and the CW’s The 100. David is also the author of his newest book, The Art of Language Invention, where readers can learn technical how-to’s and advice about inventing their own languages.  

We have a special giveaway contest for this episode. Game of Thrones fans, you’ll love this! Three lucky winners will receive a signed copy of David’s book Living Language Dothraki and a limited edition 88 Cups of Tea mug! Look out for the instructions below. 

In our conversation, we get super technical about how David builds and constructs languages, the evolution of languages, why Arabic is David’s favorite language he’s learned, and we (of course) take a closer look at the Dothraki and Valyrian languages he invented for Game of Thrones.

Say 'Hi' to David on Twitter!

“Everybody at every point in their life should have some sort of a language project on the side that they’re just trying to learn.” - David J. Peterson

 

INSTRUCTIONS FOR GIVEAWAY CONTEST

  1. What did you love most about David’s episode?
  2. Share it on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Be sure to tag @88cupsoftea and include #88cupsoftea so we can find your contest entry!
  3. Have fun and good luck!

DEADLINE: Wednesday, June 8th at 9pm EST (6pm PST) 

 

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • David’s path that led him to become a linguist

  • Why Arabic is David’s favorite language he learned and David gives usexamples of how the language is constructed 
  • We dive into detail about how David’s hobby as a language creator led him to having a career as a professional language creator for TV shows like GAME OF THRONES
  • Why language creators have been widely ridiculed and how David’s career in crafting languages is specifically helping to create a shift in perception
  • David walks us through the incredibly meticulous amount of work that goes into building a language 
  • David explains why the verbal system is the most difficult, yet the most crucial, step in creating a language
  • How David’s book THE ART OF LANGUAGE INVENTION willhelp with language building

  • How to easily learn the beginnings of new languages through memorization and practice

  • The differences between the low and high Valyrian language created for GAME OF THRONES
  • David unpacks the evolution of languages
  • What exactly is a ‘Conlang Community’?
  • Did you know that J. R. R. Tolkien was a language creator before he wrote his high-fantasy books like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit? (ME NEITHER!) Learn why he’s held in the highest regard in the conlang community

Learn More About David J. Peterson

David J. Peterson is a conlanger and author. He’s created languages for HBO’sGame of Thrones, Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World, MTV’s The Shannara Chronicles, and the CW’s The 100. He’s also the author of Living Language Dothraki, and Penguin Books’ The Art of Language Invention.

David’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Conlang.org

Index of Linguistic Articles

The Art of Language Invention YouTube channel

The Evolution of Grammar by Joan Bybee and Revere Perkins

Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariost

Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev

Say ‘Hi!’ to David
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
TWITTER

May 26, 2016

If you’d love to keep 88 Cups of Tea going strong, please consider supporting us through our Patreon membership. We added EARLY ACCESS TO INTERVIEWS for our Super Storyteller patrons in the $8.88 tier. Your kind support at any of our tiers is so helpful. A heartfelt thank you in advance.

https://www.patreon.com/88cupsoftea

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We have the a-w-e-s-o-m-e Jenny Han in today’s episode proudly brought to you by Vermont College of Fine Arts! Jenny is the New York Times bestselling author of teen and middle grade fiction, her most recent works titled To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and P.S. I Still Love You.

We discuss the gravity of representing diversity and how the book covers in Jenny’s newest book series is creating change by shifting the perception of race and redefining the archetype of the ‘The All-American Girl’

In the episode, we also uncover Jenny’s writing schedule and structure, and the inspiration behind To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. For fellow writers who are all about writing retreats, you’ll definitely want to pay attention to how Jenny hosts her own retreats and take notes so you can host your own!

Xo,

Yin

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“Authenticity is everything.” (Click to tweet)

“Any girl can be the every girl.” (Click to tweet)

“When you catch the perfect wave, you just have to ride it as far ashore as you can.” (Click to tweet)

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'PS. I STILL LOVE YOU' is the charming and heartfelt sequel to the New York Times bestseller 'TO ALL THE BOYS I’VE LOVED BEFORE', we see first love through the eyes of the unforgettable Lara Jean. Love is never easy, but maybe that’s part of what makes it so amazing.
 
 
“When you don’t get to see yourself, deep inside, you get this perception that your story is not as important, or that you don’t deserve to be the hero of your own story.” -Jenny Han
 

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WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE:
  • Why and how the book covers for the Lara Jean series is shifting the perception of race 

  • Why it’s crucial to write with authenticity, especially when writing for a young adult audience

  • The inspiration behind TO ALL THE BOYS I’VE LOVED BEFORE and the Lara Jean series

  • What it means when ‘any girl can be the every girl’

  • How Jenny creates and leads her own writers’ retreats and how you can lead your own too
  • We unpack Jenny’s writing schedule and structure

 

Learn More About Jenny Han

Jenny Han is a New York Times bestselling author of teen and middle grade fiction. Her books include The Summer I Turned Pretty seriesShug; the Burn for Burn trilogy, co-written with Siobhan Vivian; and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before and P.S. I Still Love You. She is also the author of the chapter book Clara Lee and The Apple Pie Dream. A former children’s bookseller, she earned her MFA in creative writing at the New School.

Jenny’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Escaping into the Open: The Art of Writing True by Elizabeth Berg

Say ‘Hi!’ to Jenny
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER

May 19, 2016

“There was something about this book and the research, it really made me look at the world in a different way. I suppose it made me more aware of the darkness that a human being can hold, or the sadness, and I think that kind of broke me a small bit.” –Louise O’Neill (a conversation with '88 Cups of Tea' on writing her award-winning novel "Asking For It")

Named “the best YA fiction writer alive today” by The Guardian, we have a very special episode featuring the one-and-only Louise O’Neill. Louise is the award-winning author of two novels:  Only Ever Yours, was a multiple award winner and the movie rights were bought by Killer Content. Her second novel, Asking For It, was a number 1 bestseller in her native Ireland and was named the overall book of the year at the 2015 Irish Book Awards.

In our conversation proudly brought to you by Gotham Writers, we discuss rape culture and how Asking For It is igniting a much needed discussion to create real change.  (I know that after listening to Louise’s episode, you’ll be itching to get a copy if you haven’t already read it yet. We’re holding an amazing giveaway with contest instructions below.)

In the episode, we also uncover what the heavy research process was like for Louise’s second novel, why it’s crucial for writers to write their story the way it’s demanding to be told, authentically portraying characters and the world they live in, and a whole lot more goodies.

Our conversation filled my soul and is an absolute treat I’m thrilled to share with you. Get ready for a thoughtful and stimulating episode that will awaken you.

Xo,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can help!

Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

 

“I don’t think you could write a book like this and do that sort of research and not be effected by it, and not be changed by it.” -Louise O’Neill

BOOK GIVEAWAY CONTEST INSTRUCTIONS!

One lucky winner will receive a copy of Louise O’Neill’s “Asking For It” and a limited edition '88 Cups of Tea' mug! This is the FIRST time EVER that we're including a limited edition mug from our podcast! 

To enter the giveaway contest (limited to entries within the U.S.):

  1. Listen carefully to Louise’s episode.
  2. Pick one sentence and fill in the blank:
    • “No one is ever asking for it because we all deserve _____”
    • “We need to talk about rape and consent because _____”
    • “To stop victim-blaming and slut-shaming, we need to _____”
  3. Tag @88cupsoftea with your entry on either Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. Be sure to include #88cupsoftea #askingforit
  4. In your same post, tag a friend and encourage them to fill in the blank with their own thoughts.
  5. Deadline for the contest is Wednesday, May 25th at 6pm EST (3pm PST).
  6. Good luck!

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • The inspiration behind “Asking For It” and the research process

  • The much needed conversation about the root of rape culture and how to implement real change

  • How to authentically portray characters and the world they live in

  • Louise’s advice on preventing writer’s block 

  • We unpack why honesty is the most important aspect of your writing
  • Creativity is about making mistakes and how that benefits you and your work

 

“If you start thinking about what your parents think, or what your teachers think, or what your friends will think, or what your ex-boyfriend will think, you’re never going to be honest. And I suppose for me, honesty is the most important aspect of writing.” -Louise O’Neill

 

Learn More About Louise O’Neill

Louise O’ Neill is from West Cork in Ireland. Her debut novel, Only Ever Yours, was a multiple award winner and the movie rights were bought by Killer Content. Her second novel, Asking For It, was a number 1 bestseller in her native Ireland and was named the overall book of the year at the 2015 Irish Book Awards.

Louise’s Recommended Books & Resources:

The Cresswell Plot by Eliza Wass

Shrill by Lindy West

Say ‘Hi!’ to Louise
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER

May 12, 2016

Hey Storyteller Tribe! Super excited that Vermont College of Fine Arts and 88 Cups of Tea teamed up to bring you today's episode! We have young adult author Evelyn Skye discussing the writing process of her debut novel “The Crown’s Game”. Teen Vogue says it’s one of the 13 Best Young Adult Novels coming out in 2016 and Barnes and Noble says it’s the “Most anticipated Young Adult Fantasy Novels of this year”.

This is yet another episode PACKED with discussions about the business side of writing and writing tips that are truly actionable.  

 

We chat a bunch about:

Resources Evelyn used to become a self-taught author

-How a writing community can significantly help improve your writing.

-Literary agents

-Query letters

-Marketing for authors

 

So if you’re working on your own novel right now, you’ll really benefit from Evelyn’s episode!

Let me know your thoughts about today's episode over on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram :)

 

“It takes time and effort. If you have a dream and keep pursuing it, it will happen.”-Evelyn Skye (Click here to tweet this quote!)

 

“You have to do things that are genuine to you.” -Evelyn Skye (Click here to tweet this quote!)

 

“It’s important to live your life. You can’t just live in this fictional world, otherwise you have nothing to bring to it.” -Evelyn Skye (Click here to tweet this quote!)

 

CLICK HERE TO GO TO EVELYN'S SHOWNOTES PAGE.

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • How Evelyn taught herself how to write novels with self-taught writing books

  • How to find a community of critiquing  partners to help you improve your writing
  • What inspired Evelyn to write “The Crown’s Game” and how shedeveloped the characters

  • How to find agents and editors who understand and support your vision of your story
  • How Evelyn used online resources to learn how to write query letters

  • Why it’s crucial to set the rules of your “world” you created throughout the story

  • Why it’s important to be genuine when marketing your book   

About ‘THE CROWN’S GAME’

Vika Andreyeva can summon the snow and turn ash into gold. Nikolai Karimov can see through walls and conjure bridges out of thin air.

They are enchanters—the only two in Russia—and with the Ottoman Empire and the Kazakhs threatening, the tsar needs a powerful enchanter by his side.

And so he initiated the Crown’s Game, a duel of magical skill—and the greatest test an enchanter will ever know. The victor becomes the Imperial Enchanter and the tsar’s most respected adviser. The defeated is sentenced to death.

Raised on tiny Ovchinin Island her whole life, Vika is eager for a chance to show off her talent in the grand capital of Saint Petersburg. But can she kill another enchanter—even when his magic calls to her like nothing else ever has?

For Nikolai, an orphan, the Crown’s Game is the chance of a lifetime. But his deadly opponent is a force to be reckoned with—beautiful, whip smart, imaginative—and he can’t stop thinking about her.

And when Pasha, Nikolai’s best friend and heir to the throne, also starts to fall for the mysterious enchantress, Nikolai must defeat the girl they both love… or be killed himself.

As long-buried secrets emerge, threatening the future of the empire, it becomes dangerously clear—the Crown’s Game is not one to lose.

Learn More About Evelyn Skye

Evelyn Skye is the author of THE CROWN’S GAME (HarperCollins / Balzer+Bray 2016) and its sequel (2017). She has a B.A. in Russian literature & history from Stanford University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School.

She is also a YA event host at Kepler’s Books and the ringleader of YA Lunch Break, a popular Bay Area book club. When she’s not writing, Evelyn can be found chasing after her daughter on the playground or sitting on the couch, immersed in a good book and eating way too many cookies. She is repped by Brianne Johnson of Writers House.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO EVELYN'S SHOWNOTES PAGE.

 

Say ‘Hi!’ to Evelyn
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
INSTAGRAM

May 5, 2016

Today's episode is proudly sponsored by Gotham Writers! 

We have author Jessica Brody on the show with us today!  Jessica's written and published multiple books in various genres, two of her Young Adult novels were acquired for feature film adaptations being made by producers who produced 'Vampire Academy', 'Life of Pi', and 'Slumdog Millionaire'.

I'm super excited to share today's episode with you because it's fully focused on the technicalities of writing, the kinds of writing programs and softwares that work the best for writers, how marketing and social media impacts the sales of books and the engagement of your readers, very specific writing rituals that help get writers out of a block, and so much more!

“Writing from a negative space never really results in anything good.”

 

“Writing is all about habit, routine, and forward momentum.”

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • Jessica’s writing process and how she applies ‘Save The Cat’ screen writing method

  • Writing rituals that push you through creative blocks

  • Writing from a positive headspace

  • Finding ways to get your potential readers to interact with your story

  • Interactive marketing ideas that will get your audience engaged in your story  in new and exciting ways
  • How to approach your teen audience on social media and using social media to expand your audience

Learn More About Jessica Brody

Jessica Brody is the author of several popular books for teens, including Unforgotten, Unremembered, 52 Reasons to Hate My Father, and The Karma Club, as well
as two adult novels. She splits her time between California and Colorado.

Jessica’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Jessica Brody’s Writing Class on Udemy88 Cups of Tea listeners get 50% off of her course by clicking here!
Save The Cat by Blake Snyder
Freedom App
Evernote
Udemy
SCBWI
Women’s Writers of America

Say ‘Hi!’ to Jessica
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER

 

Apr 28, 2016

Hey Storytellers! Vermont College of Fine Arts and I are so thrilled to inspire you with today's AWESOME new episode! We have #1 internationally bestselling author Karin Slaughter on the show! Karin is one of the world’s most popular and acclaimed storytellers with over 32 MILLION copies sold around the world.

Karin unpacks her writing process, shares how she transitioned from Renaissance poetry to writing crime novels, her thoughts on writing workshops, and we dive into the thought processes and technicalities behind her newest book ‘PRETTY GIRLS’Novelists, crime writers, and loyal fans of psychological thrillers—YOU'LL LOVE THIS EPISODE!

If today's episode helps you in any way, please share it with someone you think it can also help or inspire!

Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

If you'd like to stay up to date on our latest episodes, updates, and giveaways, be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter :)

“I want to have some sense that there is such thing as survival.” -Karin Slaughter (Click here to tweet)

 

“You’re going to be a published writer some day, you just have to find your right story.”

-Karin Slaughter (Click here to tweet)

 

 

“What does ‘successful’ mean to you?” -Karin Slaughter (Click here to tweet)

***

ABOUT ‘PRETTY GIRLS’

With PRETTY GIRLS, #1 internationally bestselling author, Karin Slaughter, dazzles with an explosive and chilling standalone psychological thriller. Delving into a buried history of dangerous secrets, cold vengeance, and forbidden truths, estranged sisters must come together to search, finally, for the horrifying details about two harrowing tragedies, perpetrated twenty years apart, that devastated their bond and even their attempts to lead separate lives.

Powerful, poignant, and utterly gripping, PRETTY GIRLS boasts Slaughter’s masterfully created, three-dimensional characters, who wrestle with genuine moral dilemmas and the parameters of their own humanity. Here, once again, Slaughter crafts wildly unpredictable plotting that cast light into the darkest corners of our lives, and challenges the very boundaries of suspense fiction, as she perfects all the tricks and tropes of the genre. This is a haunting and viscerally unforgettable thriller from one of the finest suspense writers working today, and her most riveting novel yet.

***

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • The inspiration behind the story of ‘Pretty Girls’

  • Advice on character development
  • The importance of having distinct voices for the characters and how to develop them

  • How Karin balances light and dark themes throughout her books and the importance of having that balance
  • Why you need to understand if writing workshops are the right fit for you

  • How to define ‘success’ for yourself

  • Why it’s beneficial to have a strong grasp of your own writing method and finding out what works best for you

 

Learn More About Karin Slaughter

A #1 internationally bestselling author, Karin Slaughter is one of the world’s most popular and acclaimed storytellers. Published in 33 languages, with more than 32 million copies sold across the globe, her fifteen novels include the Grant County and Will Trent books, as well as the Edgar-nominated Cop Town and her first psychological thriller, Pretty Girls. A native of Georgia, Karin Slaughter currently lives in Atlanta.

 

Karin’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Flannery O’Connor Short Stories 

Say ‘Hi!’ to Karin
OFFICIAL WEBSITE
FACEBOOK

Apr 21, 2016

Today's episode is proudly sponsored by GOTHAM WRITERS! I'm so excited to partner with them as they've spent over 20 years building an incredible writing community that offers sought-after writing classes in NYC and online. To learn more about why they have an amazing reputation within the writers' community, click here!

***

We're doing a SPECIAL GIVEAWAY to 3 lucky winners for today's episode! Read below for more details!

***

Hey Storyteller Tribe, I’m SO beyond honored to feature R.J. Palacio on today’s episode! R.J. is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of WONDERa middle-grade novel that sold over a million copies in just 18 months.

Entertainment Weekly says “Palacio has written a crackling page-turner filled with characters you can’t help but root for.”

R.J.’s book is now being adapted into a movie by LionsGate. According to The Wrap, Jacob Tremblay, the young star in “Room”, a movie nominated for best picture during the Oscars, is in talks to star in “Wonder”. It’s also mentioned that the studio has its sights set on Julia Roberts to play the main character’s mom.

In today’s episode, R.J. and I discuss a whole lot about “Wonder”, what it means to choose kind, and we dive into invaluable writing advice. It’s an honest and inspiring discussion that everyone will benefit from listening!

XO,

Yin

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can help!

Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

 

“We’ve all known, most of us at least, what it’s like to feel like the outsider.” Click to tweet!

 

“Always remember to be grateful because that’s what authors should always be, is grateful.” Click to tweet!

 

“We deal with what we get.” Click to tweet!

 

***

 

SPECIAL GIVEAWAY CONTEST ANNOUNCMENT!

We’re doing a special giveaway to 3 lucky winners! We have a signed copy of 3 different books by R.J. Palacio: WONDER, AUGGIE & ME, and 365 DAYS OF WONDER.

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY CONTEST: 

  1. Listen carefully to R.J.’s episode and pick your favorite quote.
  2. Post your favorite quote from the interview on your Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.
  3. Be sure to tag @88CUPSOFTEA and include #88cupsoftea in your post so I can find you! If you have a private account, remember to temporarily unblock it so that I can see your entry. 
  4. Deadline for the contest is Wednesday, April 27th at 3pm EST (12pm PST).
  5. The lucky winners will win one of R.J’s autographed books!

 

***

About ‘WONDER’

August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. WONDER, now a #1 New York Times bestseller and included on the Texas Bluebonnet Award master list, begins from Auggie’s point of view, but soon switches to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others. These perspectives converge in a portrait of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance.

***

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

    • What it means to be kind and why we should choose ‘kind’ over being ‘right’ 

    • The importance of creating a writing routine and committing to it

    • How to create characters using inspiration from the people in your own life
    • How to include multiple points of views from different characters that will enhance the main character’s story

    • R.J.’s journey as a storyteller and her transition into being a full-time author

Learn More About R.J. Palacio

R. J. Palacio is the author of Wonder. She lives in New York City with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.

R.J.’s Recommended Books & Resources:

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Leo Tolstoy 
The House of Asterion by Jorge Luis Borges
Blaise Pascal
Thomas Mann
Heinrich Boll

Say ‘Hi!’ to R.J.
TWITTER

Apr 14, 2016

Today's episode is sponsored by VCFA.

Hey Storyteller Tribe, I’m honored to introduce #1 New York Times bestselling author Christina Baker Kline on the show! Christina’s awardwinning book‘Orphan Train’ has spent over 2 years on the New York Times Bestseller list and is published in 40 countries. Today’s episode is a very special treat for storytellers focusing on writing their own novels. Christina walks us through her writing process, her journey as a writer, how she breaks through lulls, her thoughts on writers’ retreats, and what she’s currently working on. Novelists, pay special attention to how Christina reads books to specifically help her writing. We get pretty technical on writing advice so be sure to tune in!

PS. Did today’s episode help you in any way? Please share it with someone you think the episode can help!

Please leave a review about the podcast by clicking here. Your honest feedback helps to shape the show. Thank you for your time and for helping with the ranking of the show when leaving a review and rating!

“You have to trust the process. You have to trust that you’re moving forward.”

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

    • Why a writing community is crucial 

    • How to organize and keep track of your thoughts to carry out the main plot without digressing

    • Why it’s important to find your own way of mapping out a story and how to find what works best for you
    • How MFA’s can help you, especially when it comes to networking and meeting literary agents

    • How to break out of your lull and find motivation when you’re feeling ‘stuck’

    • How Christina reads books and how it’s helped her with her own writings in a technical aspect

Learn More About Christina Baker Kline

Christina Baker Kline is the author of six novels, including Orphan Train, which spent more than two years on The New York Times bestseller list, including five weeks at # 1, and has been published in 40 countries. It has been chosen as a “One Book, One Read” selection by more than 100 communities and colleges, has been published in 40 countries, and has been shortlisted for, and won, various literary and historical fiction prizes. Christina’s past novels include Bird in Hand, The Way Life Should Be, Desire Lines and Sweet Water; she has also written and edited five nonfiction books. Her new novel, based on the iconic paintingChristina’s World, by Andrew Wyeth, will be published in Winter 2017. She is on the board of Roots & Wings, a foster-care support organization, and does many events with CASA, a foster-youth legal advocacy group. She splits her time between an old house in Montclair, New Jersey, and an even older house in Southwest Harbor, Maine.

 

Christina’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
Middle March by George Eliot
Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

Say ‘Hi!’ to Christina
FACEBOOK

Apr 7, 2016

Storyteller Tribe! Man, do I have a SUPER special episode for you today. We have actor Katie Lowes from ABC’s “Scandal” on the show with us! We discuss the entertainment industry and what kind of work it takes to be a successful actor, writer, producer, and director.  Katie’s journey will resonate with all listeners. Whether you’re transitioning into a screenwriting career, or you’re in the midst of launching a new business, today’s episode is packed with hard-hitting wisdom on being successful.

Thank you Vermont College of Fine Arts for sponsoring today's episode! 

I'm really excited to hear your thoughts about this episode, let me know on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram! :)

Totally loving what Katie's saying? TELL HER ON TWITTER!

--------------

“There’s a little bit of fate & magic involved.” (Click here to tweet Katie's quote)

“I’m constantly, constantly, pushing myself to make the most out of my time.” (Click here to tweet Katie's quote)

“You are going to have a much better ride in this journey of your career if you come from a place of plenty.” (Click here to tweet Katie's quote)

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN FROM TODAY'S EPISODE:

    • The kind of work you need to put in to be a successful creative (writer, actor, director, producer)

    • How Katie constantly pushes to make the most out of her time

    • Why it’s crucial to take care of your mental and emotional health to succeed when an opportunity arises
    • Why you need to work at least 8 hours on your craft each day

    • Katie’s lowest moments throughout her acting career and how she pulled through

    • How she landed the role of Quinn Perkins on ABC’s “Scandal”

LEARN MORE ABOUT KATIE LOWES

Katie Lowes is the co-artistic director and co-founder of IAMA Theatre Company. She can be seen starring as Quinn Perkins on ABC’s Scandal, which is in its 5th season. Lowes is a native New Yorker and just celebrated her 10 year anniversary moving to Los Angeles where she resides with her husband Adam Shapiro. Katie is also in development on a TV show with Shondaland and ABC Studios and working on a book. She has written for Lena Dunham’s Lenny Letterand she’s challenging herself by writing more! Lowes is a graduate of Tisch School of the Arts and studied at RADA and the School at Steppenwolf.

 

KATIE'S RECOMMENDED BOOKS & RESOURCES:

You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero
Girls by Lena Dunham

Mar 31, 2016

Thank you Vermont College of Fine Arts for sponsoring today's episode!

I have a super special episode today that features my dear friend Natalie Lander! Natalie is an actor, writer, and singer. She has been a recurring Guest Star on ABC’s The Middle, for the past five seasons. Natalie can also be heard as the voice of “Goldie” in the  Disney Junior's #1 ranked show, "Goldie & Bear". Natalie's journey as an actor led her to co-create her own shows like AwesomenessTV’s "Teen Survival Guide" and The Craigslist Monologues which runs monthly at The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB). Natalie also co-created, co-wrote, and co-stars in her pilot "The Pick-Up Sticks" for New Form Digital’s Incubator 3 series. In today's episode, Natalie gives you a behind-the-scenes look at a working actor's career and the opportunities she's created for herself by writing her own content!

 

"It's about caring less, not being careless." -Natalie Lander (click to tweet this quote!)

"Nothing is a free ride or guarantee. It's a constant ebb and flow, constant work." -Natalie Lander  (click to tweet this quote!)

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

    • Learning to ‘let go’ as an actor

    • Creating your own content for new media

    • How Natalie created a short film that opened many doors for her journey as a writer

    • Staying positive with your art

 

Learn More About Natalie Lander

Natalie Lander is an actress, writer, singer, and cat lover. She has been a recurring Guest Star on ABC’s The Middle, for the past five seasons. Natalie can also be heard as the voice of “Goldie” in the new Disney Junior Series, Goldie & Bear, which is currently the network’s number one show. Some other Guest Star credits include Touch (FOX), Castle (ABC), Hannah Montana (DISNEY), Aim High (WARNER BROS DIGITAL), Oishi High School Battle (SMOSH) andMTV’s “Legally Blonde The Search for Elle Wood.” Natalie has also voiced many video games including Saints Row 3 and 4, God of War III, Final Fantasy, Rogue Galaxy, and Infinite Crisis. In addition to acting, Natalie is the co-creator ofAwesomenessTV’s Teen Survival Guide, and the co-creater and co-host of The Craigslist Monologues which runs monthly at The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB). Natalie is also so excited and grateful to be a part of New Form Digital’s Incubator 3 series, with her pilot The Pick-Up Sticks, which she co-created, co-wrote, and co-stars in, coming out this spring!

 

Natalie’s Recommended Books & Resources:

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
The Spontaneous Fulfillment of Desire: Harnessing the Infinite Power of Coincidence by Deepak Chopra

Say ‘Hi!’ to Natalie
TWITTER

 

Mar 24, 2016

For a list of books and resources Chloe recommends in this episode, head over to her shownotes page here: https://88cupsoftea.com/chloezhao/ 

We're thrilled to feature award-winning filmmaker and Marvel's "The Eternals" director Chloé Zhao on the podcast. Her feature debut "Songs My Brothers Taught Me" was produced by Forest Whitaker and her film premiered at Sundance Film Festival and Director's Fortnight at Cannes Film Festival. Chloé was named one of the 25 New Faces of Independent Film by Filmmaker Magazine and her film was nominated for Best First Film, Best Cinematography and Someone to Watch Award at the 2016 Independent Spirit Awards. In 2017, she directed "The Rider", a contemporary western drama that follows a young cowboy's journey to discover himself after a near-fatal accident ends his professional riding career. The film premiered at Cannes Film Festival as part of the Directors' Fortnight selection and won the Art Cinema Award. The film earned her nominations for Best Feature and Best Director at the 33rd Independent Spirit Awards. After earning critical acclaim, she is set to direct “The Eternals” for Marvel, starring Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, and Richard Madden.

In this episode that was originally published and released on March 24, 2016, we discuss how her background shapes the work she creates today, the options for funding of films, the benefits and education that come with attending film labs, ideas and inspiration, the importance of letting go, advice for fellow filmmakers, and so much more. Screenwriters, directors, producers, storytellers- you don't want to miss this one!

“Every decision we make, we are completely responsible. We control our destiny.” -Chloe Zhao

“There is something about you that is in that story. Always.” -Chloe Zhao

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • The various options on financing your film 
  • How to communicate with non-actors to deliver performances that serve the scene
  • How Chloe builds strong relationships between characters
  • We discuss film labs and how it benefits filmmakers
  • How online fiction communities help in spreading your stories
  •  

Say ‘Hi!’ to Chloe
TWITTER

Mar 17, 2016

Thank you Vermont College of Fine Arts for sponsoring today's episode! 

After you get the chance to check out today's episode, I'd love to hear your thoughts! Find me on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram!

We have New York Times bestselling author Adam Rubin of “Dragons Love Tacos” on the show today! I know many of you amazing listeners are interested in writing your own children’s books so you’ll definitely want to check out this episode.We discuss his fascinating journey as a children’s author.  You’ll learn why it’s so crucial to have an awesome editor in your team and how the editor can take your story to new levels of greatness. Adam breaks down why it’s important to write the stories for yourself, and why it’s necessary to work with an editor and a publisher who’s inspired by your work.

As an aside, Adam is a total goofball who truly enjoys his work and creates what he is genuinely passionate about. We can all learn from that! Have a listen and let me know what you think!

 

“Just focus on the words.”

“If you do something you’re passionate about, then that’s meaningful.”

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • The advantages of having a literary agent and why they make a huge difference in the publishing world

  • The importance of finding an editor and a publisher who is inspired by your work 
  • How teaching improv classes helped to hone Adam’s skill as a writer
  • How editors can help to shape your story into the best version of itself

  • Why it’s crucial to write your story for yourself
  • Advice on writing bilingual children’s books 

Learn More About Adam Rubin

Adam Rubin is the New York Times best-selling author of a half dozen critically-acclaimed picture books including Those Darn Squirrels, Secret Pizza Party andDragons Love Tacos. He spent ten years working as a creative director in the advertising industry before leaving his day job to write full time. Adam has a keen interest in improv comedy, camping and magic tricks. He lives in New York City.

 

Adam’s Recommended Books & Resources:

Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola

The Three Robbers by Tomi Ungerer

Far Out Isn’t Far Enough: The Tomi Ungerer Story by Brad Bernstein

The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith

Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

 

Say ‘Hi!’ to Adam

OFFICIAL SITE
TWITTER

Mar 10, 2016

Hey Storytellers!

We have author Leigh Bardugo of #1 New York Times Bestseller "Six of Crows" on the show with us today! Entertainment Weekly says, "...it’s one twist after another in a heist at times reminiscent of Inception."

Everyone is talking about the beautiful madness she's created in that book: Magic, thieves, knives, criminals, and a heist. A very, very grand heist. If you're one of the few who haven't read it yet, this is your chance to win an autographed copy of "Six of Crows"! What are the rules for the contest? All you have to do is pay special attention to Leigh's episode and post your favorite quote from the interview on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Be sure to unblock your account and tag @88CUPSOFTEA and include #88CUPSOFTEA so we can sort through and choose the lucky winner! 

Leigh and I chat about everything: Her time as a professional make-up artist, an insider's look at how authors are involved with their own book covers (if at all), the inspiration behind her books, how 'structure' can be an awesome writing tool, and we talk a lot about WRITING RETREATS (my favorite topic).

You're going to love this episode.

“There’s no clear line for creatives."
Tweet: “There’s no clear line for creatives.

“I believe very firmly in writing a disastrous first draft."
Tweet: “I believe very firmly in writing a disastrous first draft.

“Structure is a beautiful thing."
Tweet: “Structure is a beautiful thing.

What You'll Learn From This Episode:

  • Advice on building an intricate and exciting world for your stories

  • How knowing the ending of your story helps with the process of writing the first draft
  • Leigh's writing process

  • How to find the perfect writing retreat to create a productive environment for you 
  • The incredible advantages of writing retreats 

 

Learn More About Leigh Bardugo

Leigh Bardugo is the author of the New York Times-bestselling Grisha Trilogy. She was born in Jerusalem, grew up in Los Angeles, graduated from Yale University, and has worked in advertising, journalism, and most recently, makeup and special effects. These days, she lives and writes in Hollywood, where she can occasionally be heard singing with her band.​

 

Leigh's Recommended Books & Resources:

Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones  

Carter Beats the Devil by Glen David Gold

Madcap Retreats

Say 'Hi!' to Leigh

OFFICIAL SITE
TWITTER
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM

Mar 3, 2016

[Loving this episode? Come over and join the conversation. Let me know your thoughts, questions, feedback over on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram!]

Thank you to VCFA for sponsoring today's episode! 

Storyteller Tribe!

[Drum roll, please] I am beyond honored to share today’s guest with you: The one and only, the fearless phenomenon, Jacqueline Woodson.

Jacqueline is the shining example of a changemaker. I deeply admire her for courageously writing about the realities of the world we live in. She’s written 30 books for young adults, and in each story, she writes truthfully about society and relationships. Never one to sugarcoat, Jacqueline is also a master in connecting with her young audience by approaching them with empathy and respect through her writings.

 

Her endless list of achievements and awards is unbelievable.  Just a little teaser of the kinds of accolades we’re talking about, Jacqueline was named the Young People’s Poet Laureate, a National Book Award Winner, and she was honored theMargaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime achievement for her contributions to young adult literature.  She won four Newbery Honor Awards, two Coretta Scott King Awards, a Caldecott Medal, and the NAACP Image Award.

Incredible, right?

You have no idea how antsy and excited I’ve been to finally share our chat with you!

Xo,

Yin

 

“I don’t let myself be silenced.” -Jacqueline Woodson

 

What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

  • How Jacqueline raises her children in a society where they face discrimination on a daily basis

  • Discussion on race, realities, and injustices
  • Fostering and developing an enjoyment of writing at a young age

  • Bringing characters to life 
  • Advice on dealing with an audience (or a society) that challenges your writing 
  • Why a writer’s group is crucial, even more so than a mentor

 

Learn More About Jacqueline Woodson

Jacqueline Woodson is the new Young People’s Poet Laureate and the 2014 National Book Award Winner for her memoir BROWN GIRL DREAMING. The book also received a Newbery Honor, The NAACP Image Award, a Sibert Honor for nonfiction and was short-listed for the LA Times Book Prize. The author of thirty books for young adults, middle graders and children, among many awards, she is also a four-time Newbery Honor winner, a three-timeNational Book Award finalist, and two-time Coretta Scott King Award winner. Her books include THE OTHER SIDE, EACH KINDNESS, BENEATH THE METH MOON, the Caldecott Honor Book COMING ON HOME SOON,FEATHERS and MIRACLE’S BOYS, which received the LA Times Book Prizeand was adapted into a miniseries directed by Spike Lee. Jacqueline is also the recipient of the Margaret A. Edwards Award for lifetime achievement for her contributions to young adult literature, the winner of the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award, and was the 2013 United States nominee for the Hans Christian Andersen Award. She lives with her family in Brooklyn, New York.

 

Jacqueline’s Recommended Books & Resources:

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith 

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott 

On Becoming a Novelist by John Gardner

Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

Raymond Carver

An Na

Cornelius Eady

Say ‘Hi!’ to Jacqueline

OFFICIAL SITE
TWITTER
FACEBOOK

 

 
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