What inspires you to write for young readers?
What most inspires me to write for young readers is how much I learned about life from the books I read while I was growing up. I love how reading helps us all to see the world in new ways and from other points of view. It’s such an incredible tool for building empathy and connection between people with different backgrounds and experiences. Since being introduced to a topic in a fictional story allows for a more meaningful understanding than just being told about it, I hope to help raise young readers’ awareness of important topics in an accessible, kid-friendly way.
Tell us a bit about It Happened on Saturday.
This is the story of a 13-year-old girl named Julia who is in a tough spot because two good friends have moved away, and her BFF has come home from camp with a boyfriend. She begins eighth grade feeling lonely and left behind. After she convinces her older sister to give her a makeover, then posts a picture of herself online, she hears from Tyler, who says he’s in tenth grade at a school across town. As the two DM more and more, it seems that Tyler “gets” her in a way her family never has. But things aren’t always what they seem.
What themes and issues do you explore in your work?
As a kid, I loved reading about tough topics. I wanted to read books that explored even very difficult issues in an honest way, so that is what I most like to write for young readers. It Happened on Saturday is one of the only middle grade books thematically focused on human trafficking. The book also explores internet safety, friendship, self-acceptance and trauma recovery.
What message do you have for young writers?
Yay that you love writing! That’s wonderful. I’ll share some things that I’ve found helpful. First, keeping a journal is a great way to record ideas and experiences that can potentially become stories. Next, be sure to pay special attention to those thoughts that come first thing in the morning when you’re not quite asleep and not quite awake – that’s when I’ve gotten some great potential story ideas. I’d also suggest getting to know other writers if possible and joining a critique group if you can. I can’t imagine having done any of this without the support, camaraderie, and wonderful feedback from my writer friends. And, of course, read, read, read!
Where can we go to find out more about your work, including social media accounts or websites?
Website: https://sydneydunlap.com/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sydneydunlap
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SydneyDunlap16
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sydney.dunlap/
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