Kelly Oram's Blog, page 9
August 5, 2015
Meet the Geeks of Spanish Fork High!
In honor of Science Geek Appreciation Week, I have some special guests on the blog with me today! A true geek is only as good as her club, so I'd like you to meet the members of the Spanish Fork High Science Club. (Or the Science Squad as Grayson calls them.) I've invited the lovely Mel from Words Feather Blog to join me today and interview this amazing bunch of kids, so I'm going to pass the mic and let Mel do what she does best!
Mel: Thanks Kelly! First of all, thanks for inviting me to the party. I'm excited to be here, and especially excited for the chance to meet all of you guys. I loved you all so much in The Avery Shaw Experiment, and I can't wait to see what kind of trouble you get into next in The Libby Garrett Intervention. So, why don't we start by letting you all introduce yourselves? Can you tell us your names, position in the science club, and a few things about yourselves? Let's start with our stars, Avery Shaw and Grayson Kennedy.
Name: Avery ShawScience Squad Position: Co-PresidentYear: SeniorScientific Focus: PhysicsWants to be when she grows up: Aerospace EngineerFavorite color: BlueFavorite TV show: MythBustersHobbies: reading, watching documentaries, billiards and pool, tutoring, skiing, museums
Name: Grayson KennedyScience Squad Position: ex-secret member Year: College freshman at Utah Valley UniversityScientific Focus: Social ScienceWants to be when he grows up: Social PsychologistFavorite color: OrangeFavorite TV show: Utah Jazz gamesHobbies: basketball, dancing, movies, parties, snowboarding, working out
And for the rest of the club, lets start with the current Co-president, Aiden Kennedy!
Name: Aiden KennedyScience Squad Position: Co-PresidentYear: SeniorScientific Focus: PhysicsWants to be when he grows up: JournalistFavorite color: redFavorite TV show: the newsHobbies: debate, snowboarding, watching documentaries, reading, museums, writing
Name: Brandon CampbellScience Squad Position: Vice PresidentYear: JuniorScientific Focus: Bio ChemistryWants to be when he grows up: Biomedical scientistFavorite color: greenFavorite TV show: House, Mystery Diagnosis Hobbies: reading, board games, word puzzles, babysitting, research, science experiments, museums, learning, hanging out with friends,
Name: Elizabeth “Libby” GarrettScience Squad Position: SecretaryYear: SeniorScientific Focus: Astronomy Wants to be when she grows up: yet to be determined, but it will be awesomeFavorite color: purpleFavorite TV show: Bizarre ER Hobbies: snowboarding, freeboarding, skateboarding, reading, stargazing, tutoring, cats, learning about rare freaky diseases, romantic comedies
Name: Levi EngelScience Squad Position: TreasurerYear: JuniorScientific Focus: Computer science/nano technologyWants to be when he grows up: video game designerFavorite color: blueFavorite TV show: Dr. Who Hobbies: Role-playing, LARPing, reading, movies, board games, video games, science fiction and fantasy
Name: Tara LindsayScience Squad Position: newest memberYear: Sophomore Focus: BiologyWants to be when she grows up: Marine biologistFavorite color: pinkFavorite TV show: Downton Abbey Hobbies: reading, music, movies, animals, camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, renaissance fairs, hair braiding
Mel: Wow! Sounds like we've got quite a mix of brilliant minds here today. Thank so much everyone, for coming today.
Avery: Oh, of course! We have so much going on with Libby's upcoming story, and we're excited to be here.
Mel: Well, why don't we start with the co-presidents? We all heard about the success of last year's science fair. How do you feel about having brought this great distinction to your school, especially when it was something so personal for you?
Grayson: *snort* Great distinction? To Mr. Walden, maybe. The science squad doesn't get any love from anyone else in the school. No one besides us even really knew about us winning. Even since we put that giant trophy in the trophy case, no one knows what it was for.
Aiden: *grumbling* Lucky for you, right?
Grayson: Um, yeah. Duh.
Aiden: So you were embarrassed to be part of the science club.
Grayson: Duh. The squad was really great about keeping my involvement on the down low though. They're cool like that. *gives fist bumps to all the geeks present except his brother, and squeezes Avery in a hug*
Aiden: *glaring* So you're embarrassed of your friends? Of your girlfriend?
Grayson: *glaring back* Hell no. I hang out with the Science Squad all the time. They're cool. People know I have respect for them. And I'm way proud of my brainiac. I show her off all the time, and I love that she's so smart. *kisses Avery's cheek* Her intelligence is the first thing I brag about to people. I always say I'm not worthy of her.
Avery: Yes you are. And you're smart too. You're doing great in your first semester of college. You may be an athlete, but you fit right in with us nerds.
Aiden: *bursts into laughter*
Grayson: *kicks Aiden's shin from his seat* *grimaces sheepishly at Mel* I wouldn't say I fit in, exactly, but I like them. I have fun with them, and I respect them. We're friends.
Aiden: Whatever. You're a big ol' nerd, just like the rest of us.
Grayson: Shut up, loser. I'm nothing like you. What are you even doing here? You don't belong in this interview.
Aiden: Me? Mel asked that question of the co-presidents of the Science Club. That's Avery and me. Not Avery and you.
Grayson: *stiffening in his chair* You had nothing to do with last year's science fair. You bailed on science club, remember? You aren't even on the science squad anymore!
Avery: *Grab's Grayson's hand and tries to calm him down* Aiden is part of this team. He came back at the end of last year and we welcomed him.
*heads nod slowly all around except for Grayson and Libby who both glare at Aiden*
Avery: And Aiden had everything to do with our success at the science fair last year.
Grayson: He broke your heart!
Avery: Exactly. Without Aiden, I wouldn't have been heartbroken and there wouldn't have been a project at all.
Grayson: *grumbling* I'd be okay with that.
Avery: Without him, The Avery Shaw Experiment never would have happened. You and I wouldn't have happened.
Grayson: *sighs* *smiles* You win. *Grins at Mel* See? She's brilliant! Can't argue with a genius.
Avery: To answer the original question, the people that matter to us, our friends and family, know what we accomplished last year and that's what counts.
Levi: In the high school science world, everyone in the country knows about the Spanish Fork High Science Club. We're proud of that reputation.
Brandon: Very. We're so proud of Avery and Grayson, the Avery Shaw Experiment, and everything that came with it.
Avery: The fact that it was so personal to me only made it that much more special.
Grayson: *smiles wickedly* And of course, we're still enjoying the spoils of our victory. *plants a hard passionate kiss on Avery that makes Tara blush and everyone else groan*
Avery: *pushes Grayson off her with a shriek* Grayson! We've talked about this! Not in public!
Grayson: *rolls his eyes* *sighs*
Mel: So it sounds like all of you were part of the experiment, and not just Avery and Grayson. Was it just moral support, or were you actually involved?
Brandon: Of course the experiment was Avery's and Grayson's, but as a team, we all felt it. Aiden leaving the club hit us all very hard. And what it did to Avery? *shakes his head* Avery and Aiden were our presidents--our leaders--and suddenly one had completely destroyed the other, nearly shattering our entire group.
Aiden: *cringes and looks at his lap* *mumbles an apology*
Avery: *Reaches for Aiden's hand and squeezes it.*
Libby: *ignoring Aiden* As a group, we were pretty wrecked. But then Grayson showed up as Avery's knight in sagging basketball shorts, and not only did things get much better looking, but our girl got better.
Tara: We all wanted to see Avery succeed with her experiment and get over her heartbreak. We helped her try to reach her different stages of grief as much as we could.
Levi: Plus, when we adopted Grayson into the squad as our mascot, the whole dynamic of science club changed. So yeah, after everything that happened, we all feel like we had a hand in it. It was personal for all of us. Avery the most, but she's one of us, our leader. What happens to her happens to all of us.
Avery: *smiles at her team as her eyes gloss over* Thanks guys. I couldn't have done it without all of you. *looks at Mel* It was definitely a group effort. They all supported me so much. Even Aiden helped me reach acceptance in those final stages.
Mel: *smiles* So, you’re more than teammates. You really are friends.
Avery: *nods enthusiastically* The best of friends.
Libby: Like family
Aiden: A highly dysfunctional family in Libby's case.
Libby: *rolls her eyes* At least I'm not the family idiot.
Avery: *sighs* Guys. Come on.
Mel: *clears her throat and tactfully moves the discussion along* What is the coolest thing about you all sharing your passion for science?
Aiden: I think our shared passion for science is the coolest thing about our friendship.
Tara: I like that we can be ourselves and we don't have to worry that the others are going to make fun of us for the things we like.
Grayson: Unless you're Levi. He's a little weird even for the science squad. *winks at Levi*
*heartbeat of silence passes then the whole group cracks up*
Mel: *eyebrows hit the ceiling* Wow. Well, um, I guess I'm glad you all understand one another. But probably not a lot of people do. How do you handle it when other people label you as the freaky nerds of the school?
Grayson: We remind them that Spanish Fork High also has a chess club. *laughs at his own joke*
Avery: *smacks Grayson's shoulder* Be nice! Sun Li and Louis Sanchez are in the chess club and they're both very nice.
Grayson: But they're definitely geekier than the science squad. You guys aren't the freaks of the school.
Levi: You mean "we" Grayson. You're one of us, don't forget.
Grayson: *grins* I'm graduated, Levi. I'm not a science geek.
Levi: Really? What's your major at college?
Grayson: *sighs* Social science.
*laughs and giggles all around*
Brandon: *snorts* You're definitely one of us.
Grayson: *frowns* But I'm not a geek. I make science cool.
Avery: Yes, you do, Grayson. And we love that about you.
Grayson: *grins again* And I love you.
Aiden: *groans* You aren't answering the question again.
Grayson: *blinks* *frowns* What was the question?
Mel: Um, I asked how you handle it when other people label you as the freaky nerds of the school?
Avery: We stick together.
Brandon: Who cares what the rest of the school thinks? We're happy. We have fun together. We get to do what we love with friends who understand us and share our same interests. What more could we want?
Libby: *mutters* Seven minutes in Heaven with Owen Jackson.
Avery: *giggles*
Grayson: Don't you mean a photo booth?
Libby: *flashes Grayson a wide smile* Same thing my vertically gifted friend.
Mel: *laughing* You guys are the best! Thank you so much for stopping by today and letting us get to know you a bit better. I'm sure we'll all be rushing out to pre-order The Libby Garrett Intervention just as soon as this is over. It has been a pleasure. Geek power!
Grayson: Actually, it's nerd power.
Mel: Excuse me?
Grayson: They're nerds. Not geeks. There's a difference. Nerds are smart. They like learning and knowledge. Geeks are different. They're passionate about hobbies. They're fan boys and girls.
Libby: Like Levi.
Grayson: Yes! Levi is a prime example of a geek with his passion of role playing and Dr. Who.
Brandon: But he's a nerd too, as he appreciates gaining knowledge and likes academia.
Mel: Okay. Well, thank's for that distinction. Power to the nerds then. And, some geek power for Levi.
Levi: Thanks Mel.
Mel: Anytime! So , we're going to open it up to questions now from some of your fans.
Aiden: We have fans?
Mel: Well, um, mostly Avery, Grayson, and Libby do. You sort of have a hate club.
Aiden: *sighs*
Mel: *feels bad* Sorry. It's just, people really love Avery. It was hard to see her so hurt. People were really upset with how you treated Avery last year.
Aiden: I know. I suppose I deserve a hate club. I hate myself too, you know, for what I did to Aves. I made mistakes that I can't take back and I'll never forgive myself for them. I just wish people knew that I really do love Avery. I didn't mean to hurt her, and I'll spend the rest of my life trying to make it up to her.
Avery: No need, Aiden. I understand even if the rest of the world doesn't, and I've forgiven you.
Mel: You know, Aiden, if you'd like to do your own interview, and maybe defend yourself and set the record straight, I could come back. We could give you some time in the spotlight by yourself. Maybe you could help the rest of the world understand a little better. I think they might appreciate that.
Aiden: Yeah, I think we could manage that.
Mel: Great! We'll plan it. Friday sound good?
Aiden: Yeah, friday works for me.
Mel: Great. I'll meet you then, same time same place. Now, lets get to these last few questions, so that all of you can go home. This first question is for Libby.
Libby: Sweet. I win.
Mel: Libby. Your fans are dying to know--what is with your cat obsession?
Avery: *snorts*
Libby: Are you kidding me? Cats are only the cutest animals in existence! I mean, hello!!!
IS THAT NOT THE MOST ADORABLE THING YOU'VE EVER SEEN OR WHAT?
But more than that, cats are also extremely smart and full of attitude. Nobody bosses a cat around. A cat does what it wants. It lures in it's less intelligent prey with it's incredible cute and cuddliness and then RAWR! GOTCHA SUCKER! Cats are awesomesauce!
Mel: Thanks Libby. Next, I have one for Levi and Brandon. What hobbies do you have that aren't related to the Science Squad?
Levi: Well as the others previously mentioned, I appreciate the wonderful world of gaming. All kinds of gaming--video games, board games, roll playing... I'm an active LARPer (Live action roll playing). I also like to read. Science fiction and fantasy are my favorite. L.P. Morgan is my favorite author! He's coming to Salt Lake soon for a signing and Brandon and I are going to meet him. I'm pretty excited.
Brandon: Yeah, L.P. Morgan is amazing. That's going to be fun. I love reading too, but I don't just stick to one genre. I'll read anything from fantasy to text books. I love reading biographies. I'm not too big into video games like Levi, but I'll play board games with him. I like strategy based games and co-op games where the players are all on the same team and have to beat the game itself. I also like problem solving games--word puzzles and stuff. But mostly I love doing my own experiments. I have a genius IQ, and I need to constantly be learning. I research for fun, watch documentaries, and go to museums. But I also like to relax and hang out with my friends too. Sometimes it's hard being so smart. It's hard to turn it off, you know? I never really feel normal. When I need a break, I like to spend time with my family. I have twin little sisters. They are crazy, and a handful, but they don't see me as a weird genius. To them, I'm just their big brother. So I like spending time with them. Actually, I like all little kids for that same reason. They simplify things, and sometimes I just need to keep it simple, so I love to babysit too.
Mel: That's amazing! You're an actual genius?
Brandon: *Blushes*
Avery: He is! There's no one in the world like Brandon Campbell. He actually got recruited by MIT this year.
Mel: MIT! At what? Sixteen?
Brandon: *shrugs* It was cool. But I'm not going to go. I want to finish high school the normal way. I'll go there after I graduate. But I'm going to do this special summer program this year though, after school is out. I'm pretty excited about that.
Mel: *shakes head in awe* Very awesome! So, who's next? How about one for Grayson. Grayson, what career do you see yourself pursuing in the social sciences? Y'know, just in case the basketball thing doesn't work out.
Grayson: Ah, I've always known the basketball thing would never be a career. I'm good, but I'm not that good. I'm not a division 1 superstar or anything, you know? The NBA won't be knocking on my door, but that's okay. I love the sport, but it's never been my life. I enjoy too many other things to be so devoted as professional athletes have to be to the game. As for what I want to do, the experiment with Avery last year really opened my eyes to some things I'd never have thought about before. I'm thinking right now that I might like to be a social psychologist. I really like studying people's behaviors, and just the different types of groups of people. The Science Squadders were so different from anyone I'd ever known, that they fascinated me.
Levi: You were quite the case study for us too, Grayson.
Grayson: *chuckles* I'm sure I was. Seriously, though, the squad freaked me out a little at first, but they made me curious too. Then, helping Avery and seeing the changes in her--I really liked being a part of that. I liked that I was helping to make her life better and I think I'd really enjoy doing that kind of thing for others.
Mel: Aw, that's so sweet!
Grayson: *grins at Mel* That's me. Sweet, sensitive, caring Grayson.
Aiden: *scoffs*
Avery: It's true. That's what I've always loved about him. He likes to hide his sweet side, but it's definitely there under the surface, and it's amazing.
Mel: You two are just the cutest couple ever! And your story is so awesome. But, Avery, what about you and Libby? We know how you met and became friends with Grayson and Aiden, but you and Libby seem just as close friends as you and the Kennedy brothers are. How did the two of you become friends?
Avery: Oh! Well, that's easy. I met Libby the first day of kindergarten. I've always had a problem with anxiety--especially social anxiety. Aiden and I were in the same grade and went to the same school, but we were put in different kindergarten classes. When we got to school that first morning and had to stand in separate lines, I started crying. Libby was standing behind me and asked me what was wrong. I told her I was scared because my friend wasn't in my class. She said she didn't have any friends either and told me she would be my friend so I wouldn't be scared anymore. She took my hand, picked the desk next to mine, and we've been great friends ever since.
Mel: Aw. That's amazing. I can't believe you've all known each other for so long. You must have so many memories.
Libby: A lifetime of them.
Mel: Speaking of memories, Grayson, a lot of people have asked, what's your most memorable moment with Avery?
Grayson: *grins like the devil* Do you really need to ask? The shower, of course! I will never, ever forget anything about that moment.
Avery: *sighs* Grayson. Can't you be serious? Please?
Grayson: I am being serious! It was more than just the fact that we were in the shower together, Aves. And that there was nakedness involved... And that you looked beyond amazing in a wet t-shirt...
Avery: Grayson!
Grayson: Seriously, though, Aves, I was shocked that day. Forever changed in that moment. You'd always just been Little Avery Shaw to me before that. My stupid kid brother's geeky little girlfriend. You were practically a sister to me. I knew you, but I'd never paid attention to you before that day. Then, suddenly you were real. You were beautiful and vulnerable. That was the first time I ever really saw you for you. And I knew right then, as I held you while you shattered in a million pieces in my arms, that I wanted to take care of you. That I had to help you and protect you. *clears a surprise lump of emotion from his throat* That moment changed my life, Aves. It changed me as a person. You changed me.
*collective sighs from girls all around the world*
Avery: *blushes* *Grayson kisses her--a sweet kiss that she doesn't get mad at him for*
Mel: *still swooning* what about you, Avery? Do you have a most memorable Grayson moment?
Avery: *also still swooning* As much as I'd like to say it was the shower too, that moment didn't have the impact on me that it did on Grayson. I was so distraught that I hardly even knew what was happening. My attitude change toward Grayson happened a lot slower. He was like an older brother to me, the way I was a little sister to him.
Grayson: Actually, she thought I was like a gross older brother. And she liked to say as much.
Avery: *grinning* I don't deny it. You were gross. Maybe that's why it took me a lot longer to fall for you.
Grayson: Maybe you're just that much more amazing than me.
Avery: Not possible. But anyway, I guess the most memorable moment I have with Grayson was probably the night we went to that party and he taught me how to dance.
Grayson: Mmm, that was a good moment.
Avery: I'd never spent time with anyone other than my small group of friends before and suddenly I was at this rager of a college party. I was so far out of my comfort zone that I could barely function. I was terrified, but Grayson was right there with me the entire night, keeping me in control. I know sticking with geeky little me who wouldn't drink or dance, or even socialize, and who wasn't going to make out with him, wasn't Grayson's idea of a party. But he stayed glued to my side and even seemed to enjoy himself. That night I realized Grayson wasn't just hanging out with me for extra credit, or because he felt sorry for me. He genuinely cared about me and liked spending time with me.
Grayson: Of course I did.
Avery: Then when we danced... *shivers at the memory* *blushes* That was the moment I fell completely head over heels for the Grayson Kennedy charm, even if I wasn't ready to admit it. He wasn't just Aiden's crazy, annoying, and yes, gross, older brother anymore. And when I realized that I wanted to kiss him, that I really really liked him, I knew things were going to change.
Grayson: *snickers* Took you long enough, Aves.
Avery: *rolls eyes* I was heartbroken thank you very much. And you had a reputation that was hard to overlook.
Grayson: *smirks* Well, don't worry, I have quite a different reputation now, thank, you very much.
Libby: *snorts* What reputation? Completely whipped?
Grayson: Exactly. I lost all my street cred and had to give up my man card.*sighs playfully* It was worth it, though.
Avery: *pokes Grayson in the side* You are such a smooth talker.
Grayson: Maybe. But that doesn't make what I say untrue. You're worth everything, Aves. I love you.
Avery: I love you too.
Mel: Aww. And I think that's our cue to end this interview! Thank you so much, everyone, for coming today! I hope you've enjoyed this interview as much as I have, and don't forget to buy your copies of the Geek Squad books and witness the science in action!
Kelly: Shameless plug time! Avery and Grayson's story, The Avery Shaw Experiment is on sale right now for only $0.99!! Download it now from Amazon, B&N, iBooks, and Kobo.
And then, make sure to go pre-order your copy of The Libby Garrett Intervention so you don't miss out on the next great Science Squad adventure. (With Libby Garrett driving the story, you're bound to go for a wild ride!)
Libby: You mean a wild journey, Kelly. Get it right, girl. You know, for someone so creatively awesome, your grammar in your first drafts... tisk tisk...
Kelly: Hey! It's a rough draft!
Libby: *snickers* Rough, is a good word for it.
Kelly: *sticks out her tongue like a five year old* Be nice to me Libby, or I'll give you a zit on prom night.
Libby: *gasps* You wouldn't DARE!
Kelly: *raises an eyebrow* Don't think so?
Libby: *smiles sweetly at her creator* Have you done something different with your hair, Kelly? It looks fabulous! And, have I thanked you yet for giving Adam tattoos??? So HOT. You're brilliant.
Kelly: *snort* Why thank you, Libby. Aren't you so kind!
Kelly: Goodbye everyone! See you tomorrow with more great bonus material! Don't forget to enter all the giveaways!
Mel: Thanks Kelly! First of all, thanks for inviting me to the party. I'm excited to be here, and especially excited for the chance to meet all of you guys. I loved you all so much in The Avery Shaw Experiment, and I can't wait to see what kind of trouble you get into next in The Libby Garrett Intervention. So, why don't we start by letting you all introduce yourselves? Can you tell us your names, position in the science club, and a few things about yourselves? Let's start with our stars, Avery Shaw and Grayson Kennedy.
Name: Avery ShawScience Squad Position: Co-PresidentYear: SeniorScientific Focus: PhysicsWants to be when she grows up: Aerospace EngineerFavorite color: BlueFavorite TV show: MythBustersHobbies: reading, watching documentaries, billiards and pool, tutoring, skiing, museumsName: Grayson KennedyScience Squad Position: ex-secret member Year: College freshman at Utah Valley UniversityScientific Focus: Social ScienceWants to be when he grows up: Social PsychologistFavorite color: OrangeFavorite TV show: Utah Jazz gamesHobbies: basketball, dancing, movies, parties, snowboarding, working out
And for the rest of the club, lets start with the current Co-president, Aiden Kennedy!
Name: Aiden KennedyScience Squad Position: Co-PresidentYear: SeniorScientific Focus: PhysicsWants to be when he grows up: JournalistFavorite color: redFavorite TV show: the newsHobbies: debate, snowboarding, watching documentaries, reading, museums, writing
Name: Brandon CampbellScience Squad Position: Vice PresidentYear: JuniorScientific Focus: Bio ChemistryWants to be when he grows up: Biomedical scientistFavorite color: greenFavorite TV show: House, Mystery Diagnosis Hobbies: reading, board games, word puzzles, babysitting, research, science experiments, museums, learning, hanging out with friends,
Name: Elizabeth “Libby” GarrettScience Squad Position: SecretaryYear: SeniorScientific Focus: Astronomy Wants to be when she grows up: yet to be determined, but it will be awesomeFavorite color: purpleFavorite TV show: Bizarre ER Hobbies: snowboarding, freeboarding, skateboarding, reading, stargazing, tutoring, cats, learning about rare freaky diseases, romantic comedies
Name: Levi EngelScience Squad Position: TreasurerYear: JuniorScientific Focus: Computer science/nano technologyWants to be when he grows up: video game designerFavorite color: blueFavorite TV show: Dr. Who Hobbies: Role-playing, LARPing, reading, movies, board games, video games, science fiction and fantasy
Name: Tara LindsayScience Squad Position: newest memberYear: Sophomore Focus: BiologyWants to be when she grows up: Marine biologistFavorite color: pinkFavorite TV show: Downton Abbey Hobbies: reading, music, movies, animals, camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, renaissance fairs, hair braiding Mel: Wow! Sounds like we've got quite a mix of brilliant minds here today. Thank so much everyone, for coming today.
Avery: Oh, of course! We have so much going on with Libby's upcoming story, and we're excited to be here.
Mel: Well, why don't we start with the co-presidents? We all heard about the success of last year's science fair. How do you feel about having brought this great distinction to your school, especially when it was something so personal for you?
Grayson: *snort* Great distinction? To Mr. Walden, maybe. The science squad doesn't get any love from anyone else in the school. No one besides us even really knew about us winning. Even since we put that giant trophy in the trophy case, no one knows what it was for.
Aiden: *grumbling* Lucky for you, right?
Grayson: Um, yeah. Duh.
Aiden: So you were embarrassed to be part of the science club.
Grayson: Duh. The squad was really great about keeping my involvement on the down low though. They're cool like that. *gives fist bumps to all the geeks present except his brother, and squeezes Avery in a hug*
Aiden: *glaring* So you're embarrassed of your friends? Of your girlfriend?
Grayson: *glaring back* Hell no. I hang out with the Science Squad all the time. They're cool. People know I have respect for them. And I'm way proud of my brainiac. I show her off all the time, and I love that she's so smart. *kisses Avery's cheek* Her intelligence is the first thing I brag about to people. I always say I'm not worthy of her.
Avery: Yes you are. And you're smart too. You're doing great in your first semester of college. You may be an athlete, but you fit right in with us nerds.
Aiden: *bursts into laughter*
Grayson: *kicks Aiden's shin from his seat* *grimaces sheepishly at Mel* I wouldn't say I fit in, exactly, but I like them. I have fun with them, and I respect them. We're friends.
Aiden: Whatever. You're a big ol' nerd, just like the rest of us.
Grayson: Shut up, loser. I'm nothing like you. What are you even doing here? You don't belong in this interview.
Aiden: Me? Mel asked that question of the co-presidents of the Science Club. That's Avery and me. Not Avery and you.
Grayson: *stiffening in his chair* You had nothing to do with last year's science fair. You bailed on science club, remember? You aren't even on the science squad anymore!
Avery: *Grab's Grayson's hand and tries to calm him down* Aiden is part of this team. He came back at the end of last year and we welcomed him.
*heads nod slowly all around except for Grayson and Libby who both glare at Aiden*
Avery: And Aiden had everything to do with our success at the science fair last year.
Grayson: He broke your heart!
Avery: Exactly. Without Aiden, I wouldn't have been heartbroken and there wouldn't have been a project at all.
Grayson: *grumbling* I'd be okay with that.
Avery: Without him, The Avery Shaw Experiment never would have happened. You and I wouldn't have happened.
Grayson: *sighs* *smiles* You win. *Grins at Mel* See? She's brilliant! Can't argue with a genius.
Avery: To answer the original question, the people that matter to us, our friends and family, know what we accomplished last year and that's what counts.
Levi: In the high school science world, everyone in the country knows about the Spanish Fork High Science Club. We're proud of that reputation.
Brandon: Very. We're so proud of Avery and Grayson, the Avery Shaw Experiment, and everything that came with it.
Avery: The fact that it was so personal to me only made it that much more special.
Grayson: *smiles wickedly* And of course, we're still enjoying the spoils of our victory. *plants a hard passionate kiss on Avery that makes Tara blush and everyone else groan*
Avery: *pushes Grayson off her with a shriek* Grayson! We've talked about this! Not in public!
Grayson: *rolls his eyes* *sighs*
Mel: So it sounds like all of you were part of the experiment, and not just Avery and Grayson. Was it just moral support, or were you actually involved?
Brandon: Of course the experiment was Avery's and Grayson's, but as a team, we all felt it. Aiden leaving the club hit us all very hard. And what it did to Avery? *shakes his head* Avery and Aiden were our presidents--our leaders--and suddenly one had completely destroyed the other, nearly shattering our entire group.
Aiden: *cringes and looks at his lap* *mumbles an apology*
Avery: *Reaches for Aiden's hand and squeezes it.*
Libby: *ignoring Aiden* As a group, we were pretty wrecked. But then Grayson showed up as Avery's knight in sagging basketball shorts, and not only did things get much better looking, but our girl got better.
Tara: We all wanted to see Avery succeed with her experiment and get over her heartbreak. We helped her try to reach her different stages of grief as much as we could.
Levi: Plus, when we adopted Grayson into the squad as our mascot, the whole dynamic of science club changed. So yeah, after everything that happened, we all feel like we had a hand in it. It was personal for all of us. Avery the most, but she's one of us, our leader. What happens to her happens to all of us.
Avery: *smiles at her team as her eyes gloss over* Thanks guys. I couldn't have done it without all of you. *looks at Mel* It was definitely a group effort. They all supported me so much. Even Aiden helped me reach acceptance in those final stages.
Mel: *smiles* So, you’re more than teammates. You really are friends.
Avery: *nods enthusiastically* The best of friends.
Libby: Like family
Aiden: A highly dysfunctional family in Libby's case.
Libby: *rolls her eyes* At least I'm not the family idiot.
Avery: *sighs* Guys. Come on.
Mel: *clears her throat and tactfully moves the discussion along* What is the coolest thing about you all sharing your passion for science?
Aiden: I think our shared passion for science is the coolest thing about our friendship.
Tara: I like that we can be ourselves and we don't have to worry that the others are going to make fun of us for the things we like.
Grayson: Unless you're Levi. He's a little weird even for the science squad. *winks at Levi*
*heartbeat of silence passes then the whole group cracks up*
Mel: *eyebrows hit the ceiling* Wow. Well, um, I guess I'm glad you all understand one another. But probably not a lot of people do. How do you handle it when other people label you as the freaky nerds of the school?
Grayson: We remind them that Spanish Fork High also has a chess club. *laughs at his own joke*
Avery: *smacks Grayson's shoulder* Be nice! Sun Li and Louis Sanchez are in the chess club and they're both very nice.
Grayson: But they're definitely geekier than the science squad. You guys aren't the freaks of the school.
Levi: You mean "we" Grayson. You're one of us, don't forget.
Grayson: *grins* I'm graduated, Levi. I'm not a science geek.
Levi: Really? What's your major at college?
Grayson: *sighs* Social science.
*laughs and giggles all around*
Brandon: *snorts* You're definitely one of us.
Grayson: *frowns* But I'm not a geek. I make science cool.
Avery: Yes, you do, Grayson. And we love that about you.
Grayson: *grins again* And I love you.
Aiden: *groans* You aren't answering the question again.
Grayson: *blinks* *frowns* What was the question?
Mel: Um, I asked how you handle it when other people label you as the freaky nerds of the school?
Avery: We stick together.
Brandon: Who cares what the rest of the school thinks? We're happy. We have fun together. We get to do what we love with friends who understand us and share our same interests. What more could we want?
Libby: *mutters* Seven minutes in Heaven with Owen Jackson.
Avery: *giggles*
Grayson: Don't you mean a photo booth?
Libby: *flashes Grayson a wide smile* Same thing my vertically gifted friend.
Mel: *laughing* You guys are the best! Thank you so much for stopping by today and letting us get to know you a bit better. I'm sure we'll all be rushing out to pre-order The Libby Garrett Intervention just as soon as this is over. It has been a pleasure. Geek power!
Grayson: Actually, it's nerd power.
Mel: Excuse me?
Grayson: They're nerds. Not geeks. There's a difference. Nerds are smart. They like learning and knowledge. Geeks are different. They're passionate about hobbies. They're fan boys and girls.
Libby: Like Levi.
Grayson: Yes! Levi is a prime example of a geek with his passion of role playing and Dr. Who.
Brandon: But he's a nerd too, as he appreciates gaining knowledge and likes academia.
Mel: Okay. Well, thank's for that distinction. Power to the nerds then. And, some geek power for Levi.
Levi: Thanks Mel.
Mel: Anytime! So , we're going to open it up to questions now from some of your fans.
Aiden: We have fans?
Mel: Well, um, mostly Avery, Grayson, and Libby do. You sort of have a hate club.
Aiden: *sighs*
Mel: *feels bad* Sorry. It's just, people really love Avery. It was hard to see her so hurt. People were really upset with how you treated Avery last year.
Aiden: I know. I suppose I deserve a hate club. I hate myself too, you know, for what I did to Aves. I made mistakes that I can't take back and I'll never forgive myself for them. I just wish people knew that I really do love Avery. I didn't mean to hurt her, and I'll spend the rest of my life trying to make it up to her.
Avery: No need, Aiden. I understand even if the rest of the world doesn't, and I've forgiven you.
Mel: You know, Aiden, if you'd like to do your own interview, and maybe defend yourself and set the record straight, I could come back. We could give you some time in the spotlight by yourself. Maybe you could help the rest of the world understand a little better. I think they might appreciate that.
Aiden: Yeah, I think we could manage that.
Mel: Great! We'll plan it. Friday sound good?
Aiden: Yeah, friday works for me.
Mel: Great. I'll meet you then, same time same place. Now, lets get to these last few questions, so that all of you can go home. This first question is for Libby.
Libby: Sweet. I win.
Mel: Libby. Your fans are dying to know--what is with your cat obsession?
Avery: *snorts*
Libby: Are you kidding me? Cats are only the cutest animals in existence! I mean, hello!!!
IS THAT NOT THE MOST ADORABLE THING YOU'VE EVER SEEN OR WHAT?
But more than that, cats are also extremely smart and full of attitude. Nobody bosses a cat around. A cat does what it wants. It lures in it's less intelligent prey with it's incredible cute and cuddliness and then RAWR! GOTCHA SUCKER! Cats are awesomesauce!
Mel: Thanks Libby. Next, I have one for Levi and Brandon. What hobbies do you have that aren't related to the Science Squad?
Levi: Well as the others previously mentioned, I appreciate the wonderful world of gaming. All kinds of gaming--video games, board games, roll playing... I'm an active LARPer (Live action roll playing). I also like to read. Science fiction and fantasy are my favorite. L.P. Morgan is my favorite author! He's coming to Salt Lake soon for a signing and Brandon and I are going to meet him. I'm pretty excited.
Brandon: Yeah, L.P. Morgan is amazing. That's going to be fun. I love reading too, but I don't just stick to one genre. I'll read anything from fantasy to text books. I love reading biographies. I'm not too big into video games like Levi, but I'll play board games with him. I like strategy based games and co-op games where the players are all on the same team and have to beat the game itself. I also like problem solving games--word puzzles and stuff. But mostly I love doing my own experiments. I have a genius IQ, and I need to constantly be learning. I research for fun, watch documentaries, and go to museums. But I also like to relax and hang out with my friends too. Sometimes it's hard being so smart. It's hard to turn it off, you know? I never really feel normal. When I need a break, I like to spend time with my family. I have twin little sisters. They are crazy, and a handful, but they don't see me as a weird genius. To them, I'm just their big brother. So I like spending time with them. Actually, I like all little kids for that same reason. They simplify things, and sometimes I just need to keep it simple, so I love to babysit too.
Mel: That's amazing! You're an actual genius?
Brandon: *Blushes*
Avery: He is! There's no one in the world like Brandon Campbell. He actually got recruited by MIT this year.
Mel: MIT! At what? Sixteen?
Brandon: *shrugs* It was cool. But I'm not going to go. I want to finish high school the normal way. I'll go there after I graduate. But I'm going to do this special summer program this year though, after school is out. I'm pretty excited about that.
Mel: *shakes head in awe* Very awesome! So, who's next? How about one for Grayson. Grayson, what career do you see yourself pursuing in the social sciences? Y'know, just in case the basketball thing doesn't work out.
Grayson: Ah, I've always known the basketball thing would never be a career. I'm good, but I'm not that good. I'm not a division 1 superstar or anything, you know? The NBA won't be knocking on my door, but that's okay. I love the sport, but it's never been my life. I enjoy too many other things to be so devoted as professional athletes have to be to the game. As for what I want to do, the experiment with Avery last year really opened my eyes to some things I'd never have thought about before. I'm thinking right now that I might like to be a social psychologist. I really like studying people's behaviors, and just the different types of groups of people. The Science Squadders were so different from anyone I'd ever known, that they fascinated me.
Levi: You were quite the case study for us too, Grayson.
Grayson: *chuckles* I'm sure I was. Seriously, though, the squad freaked me out a little at first, but they made me curious too. Then, helping Avery and seeing the changes in her--I really liked being a part of that. I liked that I was helping to make her life better and I think I'd really enjoy doing that kind of thing for others.
Mel: Aw, that's so sweet!
Grayson: *grins at Mel* That's me. Sweet, sensitive, caring Grayson.
Aiden: *scoffs*
Avery: It's true. That's what I've always loved about him. He likes to hide his sweet side, but it's definitely there under the surface, and it's amazing.
Mel: You two are just the cutest couple ever! And your story is so awesome. But, Avery, what about you and Libby? We know how you met and became friends with Grayson and Aiden, but you and Libby seem just as close friends as you and the Kennedy brothers are. How did the two of you become friends?
Avery: Oh! Well, that's easy. I met Libby the first day of kindergarten. I've always had a problem with anxiety--especially social anxiety. Aiden and I were in the same grade and went to the same school, but we were put in different kindergarten classes. When we got to school that first morning and had to stand in separate lines, I started crying. Libby was standing behind me and asked me what was wrong. I told her I was scared because my friend wasn't in my class. She said she didn't have any friends either and told me she would be my friend so I wouldn't be scared anymore. She took my hand, picked the desk next to mine, and we've been great friends ever since.
Mel: Aw. That's amazing. I can't believe you've all known each other for so long. You must have so many memories.
Libby: A lifetime of them.
Mel: Speaking of memories, Grayson, a lot of people have asked, what's your most memorable moment with Avery?
Grayson: *grins like the devil* Do you really need to ask? The shower, of course! I will never, ever forget anything about that moment.
Avery: *sighs* Grayson. Can't you be serious? Please?
Grayson: I am being serious! It was more than just the fact that we were in the shower together, Aves. And that there was nakedness involved... And that you looked beyond amazing in a wet t-shirt...
Avery: Grayson!
Grayson: Seriously, though, Aves, I was shocked that day. Forever changed in that moment. You'd always just been Little Avery Shaw to me before that. My stupid kid brother's geeky little girlfriend. You were practically a sister to me. I knew you, but I'd never paid attention to you before that day. Then, suddenly you were real. You were beautiful and vulnerable. That was the first time I ever really saw you for you. And I knew right then, as I held you while you shattered in a million pieces in my arms, that I wanted to take care of you. That I had to help you and protect you. *clears a surprise lump of emotion from his throat* That moment changed my life, Aves. It changed me as a person. You changed me.
*collective sighs from girls all around the world*
Avery: *blushes* *Grayson kisses her--a sweet kiss that she doesn't get mad at him for*
Mel: *still swooning* what about you, Avery? Do you have a most memorable Grayson moment?
Avery: *also still swooning* As much as I'd like to say it was the shower too, that moment didn't have the impact on me that it did on Grayson. I was so distraught that I hardly even knew what was happening. My attitude change toward Grayson happened a lot slower. He was like an older brother to me, the way I was a little sister to him.
Grayson: Actually, she thought I was like a gross older brother. And she liked to say as much.
Avery: *grinning* I don't deny it. You were gross. Maybe that's why it took me a lot longer to fall for you.
Grayson: Maybe you're just that much more amazing than me.
Avery: Not possible. But anyway, I guess the most memorable moment I have with Grayson was probably the night we went to that party and he taught me how to dance.
Grayson: Mmm, that was a good moment.
Avery: I'd never spent time with anyone other than my small group of friends before and suddenly I was at this rager of a college party. I was so far out of my comfort zone that I could barely function. I was terrified, but Grayson was right there with me the entire night, keeping me in control. I know sticking with geeky little me who wouldn't drink or dance, or even socialize, and who wasn't going to make out with him, wasn't Grayson's idea of a party. But he stayed glued to my side and even seemed to enjoy himself. That night I realized Grayson wasn't just hanging out with me for extra credit, or because he felt sorry for me. He genuinely cared about me and liked spending time with me.
Grayson: Of course I did.
Avery: Then when we danced... *shivers at the memory* *blushes* That was the moment I fell completely head over heels for the Grayson Kennedy charm, even if I wasn't ready to admit it. He wasn't just Aiden's crazy, annoying, and yes, gross, older brother anymore. And when I realized that I wanted to kiss him, that I really really liked him, I knew things were going to change.
Grayson: *snickers* Took you long enough, Aves.
Avery: *rolls eyes* I was heartbroken thank you very much. And you had a reputation that was hard to overlook.
Grayson: *smirks* Well, don't worry, I have quite a different reputation now, thank, you very much.
Libby: *snorts* What reputation? Completely whipped?
Grayson: Exactly. I lost all my street cred and had to give up my man card.*sighs playfully* It was worth it, though.
Avery: *pokes Grayson in the side* You are such a smooth talker.
Grayson: Maybe. But that doesn't make what I say untrue. You're worth everything, Aves. I love you.
Avery: I love you too.
Mel: Aww. And I think that's our cue to end this interview! Thank you so much, everyone, for coming today! I hope you've enjoyed this interview as much as I have, and don't forget to buy your copies of the Geek Squad books and witness the science in action!
Kelly: Shameless plug time! Avery and Grayson's story, The Avery Shaw Experiment is on sale right now for only $0.99!! Download it now from Amazon, B&N, iBooks, and Kobo.
And then, make sure to go pre-order your copy of The Libby Garrett Intervention so you don't miss out on the next great Science Squad adventure. (With Libby Garrett driving the story, you're bound to go for a wild ride!)
Libby: You mean a wild journey, Kelly. Get it right, girl. You know, for someone so creatively awesome, your grammar in your first drafts... tisk tisk...
Kelly: Hey! It's a rough draft!
Libby: *snickers* Rough, is a good word for it.
Kelly: *sticks out her tongue like a five year old* Be nice to me Libby, or I'll give you a zit on prom night.
Libby: *gasps* You wouldn't DARE!
Kelly: *raises an eyebrow* Don't think so?
Libby: *smiles sweetly at her creator* Have you done something different with your hair, Kelly? It looks fabulous! And, have I thanked you yet for giving Adam tattoos??? So HOT. You're brilliant.
Kelly: *snort* Why thank you, Libby. Aren't you so kind!
Kelly: Goodbye everyone! See you tomorrow with more great bonus material! Don't forget to enter all the giveaways!
Author Spotlight Kelly Oram
Well we're mid week now--half way through Science Geek Appreciation Week--and it's time to get up close and personal with the author of the Science Squad series, Kelly Oram.
If you missed any of the previous posts about The Avery Shaw Experiment or The Libby Garrett Intervention, be sure to stop by the Facebook event. Along with the posts, there's all kinds of extra bonus material, games and giveaways going on. Lots of chances to win signed books and swag, talk to the author and just have fun with other science geek loving friends. There's a new giveaway every day. CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE PARTY!
So, what should you know about Kelly Oram?
The Obvious:I love to write.
&
I'm a ginger.
The Basics:
I wrote my first novel at age fifteen--a fan fiction about my favorite music group, The Backstreet Boys, for which my family and friends still tease me. I'm obsessed with reading, talk way too much, and like to eat frosting by the spoonful. I live outside of Phoenix, Arizona with my husband, four children, and my cat, Mr. Darcy. And we named his litter box Pemberly because it's where he makes ten thousand (poops) a year! Connect with Kelly:
Newsletter * Amazon * Facebook * Twitter
The Fun Stuff:
1. I love to sing and went to college as a voice performance major.2. I once competed in the Miss Michigan Teen USA pageant. (I did not win LOL.)3. I’m a baseball fanatic. (Go D-backs!)4. I broke my head as a kid and had to wear a hockey helmet to school as my cast.5. I own my own 10-sided dice for role-playing that no one but me is allowed to role.6. I’m left handed.7. I am credited as associate producer for the independent film Amber Alert. 8. I live for road trips. Best vacation I ever took was a three-week coast-to-coast-and-back drive with my father.9. The Backstreet Boys were my 1D in high school, and I was a total fangirl. I still have a whole collection of fan paraphernalia.
10. I took both golf and bowling classes in college to fulfill my PE credits. (I still suck at both.)
The Bookish Stuff:
How did you come up with the idea for The Avery Shaw Experiment?I remember the day I came up with the idea, but not exactly how the concept popped into my head. I went for a run. (Okay, it was more of a walk-run during one of my on-again times where I was dedicated to working out. The off-again times are way more frequent.)
Anyway, I'd ton for a run and it was one of those precious moments where I was by myself, no distractions, no kids--just me and my thoughts. The concept for a girl getting over a broken heart using the seven stages of grief popped into my head, and before that half an hour (yes, that's all I can run before I want to die) was over, I had most of the book plotted.
I was in the middle of another manuscript at the time, but I went home and wrote Avery's prologue right away. Five weeks later I had a finished book. The Avery Shaw Experiment had been my easiest book to write so far. It just flowed so naturally, and honestly, I blame that on Avery and Grayson's natural chemistry. (Hehe science pun totally intended!)
Are you a science geek yourself?I am a geek of many colors. Music, fantasy, sic-fi, choir, books... But no, I was never a science geek. I was actually a very mediocre-to-horrible student. I never liked the academic stuff, and I struggled with a lot of it. (I spent too much time in my own imagination!) But, that said, I can see the fun in doing science experiments, and I find the occasional documentary about science stuff interesting. Most of my science geek inspiration was drawn from my mother. (She is a HUGE science nerd!) The woman love bugs and dissection and all things dealing with the human body. She worked in a chemistry lab when I was younger and now works with a team of rocket scientists putting rockets in space and sending supplies to the space stations and things like that. It's a dream come true for her every time she travels to Virginia to launch one of her rockets. She's a hard-core nerd and I love her dearly for it, which is way I had to dedicate The Avery Shaw Experiment to her. (Love you Mom!)
How did you come up with the idea for The Libby Garrett Intervention?Libby was a little different. The idea didn't come as easy. It took a lot more planning. I loved Libby's character and really wanted to write her a story, but it took me a long time to commit to it. As much as everyone asked for a Libby and Owen story, I really felt like Owen wasn't the right one for her. The idea for the Libby Garrett Intervention sparked from me imagining what a relationship between Owen and Libby would be like based on there characters from The Avery Shaw Experiment. I just couldn't imagine Owen ever being a Grayson, and falling for Libby the way she deserved. That's where the idea of Libby's "addiction" to Owen came in and it was a short leap from there to the Twelve Step program. I loved the idea of the steps because it fit perfectly with the stages of grief I used in the first book. It was the perfect companion story. And suddenly, volia! I had the next book.
Will there be more Science Squad books in the future?There will be at least one more. I have a story already plotted out for one of the other science squad geeks, though my writing schedule is so packed that it will probably take me a couple years to get to it. After that, I don't know. I'd love to end the series with Aiden's story, but I'd have to actually come up with a story for him first. I've pit the idea in my head though, and am letting it simmer, so we'll see what happens.
What's your favorite part of the story, and your favorite quote from The Avery Shaw Experiment? Oh, goodness, that's award one. I know most people probably love the shower scene (it's not what you think!) in the beginning, or the dancing scene, or basically all the more romantic scenes between Avery and Grayson, but my favorite scenes are actually the science/school. stuff. (Maybe I'm a bit of a science geek after all. My mother would be proud!) I love the scene where the science squad takes Grayson to the bowling alley for a lesson in applied physics and explain Newton's laws. Like I said, I struggled a lot in high school, because, like Grayson, I have a different style of learning than most people. I need things to be interactive and fun, and I need things explained to me in ways that are applicable to my daily life. I had a lot of fun finding a way to make science fun and creative.
My other favorite scene is between Grayson and Mr. Walden at the end. As much as I loved Grayson and Avery, I had a special place in my heart for the relationship between Grayson and his Physics teacher. I've been where Grayson was, and I had a couple of cool teachers that, despite my grades and struggles, really understood me. Those were the teachers that made a difference in my education, and I really wish there were more great teachers out there. So, yeah, developing the relationship between those two was a lot of fun for me, and in the end when they've completed character arc, it still makes me smile every time I read that scene.
As for my favorite quotes? I have a million, but I'll narrow it down to two for you. I already have them in convenient photo teasers for you to pass around the internet, should you feel so inclined. ;)
So, that's me in a nutshell. Hopefully you've recognized my brilliance by now (and my sarcasm) and I've convinced you to check out the books. I think they're a lot of fun and I'm so excited to share Libby with the world!
The Avery Shaw Experiment is on sale this week only for just $0.99. I promise, it's worth the dollar! Amazon * iBooks * B&N * Kobo
The Libby Garrett Intervention is coming October 24th!
It's available for pre-order now at the special discounted price of $2.99.
Amazon * iBooks * B&N * Kobo
Or to be notified upon release, SUBSCRIBE to my newsletter.
If you'd like to see more, there are more teasers, excerpts, character interviews, games and giveaways happening on the Science Geek Appreciation Week Facebook event. Make sure you stop by the party and enter to win some of the giveaways. Signed books and swag! FACEBOOK EVENT
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August 4, 2015
Music says so much about a person...
Or, in this case, a book. I generally have a soundtrack or playlist for all of my books that I will listen to over and over again as I work on a project. I need quiet when I'm doing the actual writing part, but I still wear my playlists out all other hours of the day.
It's usually a combination of things that will draw a certain song to a book playlist. Whether it's a sound, or a line of lyrics, or it reminds me of a certain scene or character. For my Libby Garrett soundtrack, it was definitely all about the Character.
Libby Garrett is a one-of-a-kind girl. Her personality is so big, that she tends to be a spotlight hog. It was no different when I put together my playlist for The Libby Garrett Intervention. This songs on this list don't so much remind me of the book as they just feel like Libby. That said, check it out and give it a listen. I guarantee you will come to understand Libby just a little bit better. Here they are in my actual playlist order.
Drumroll please...
I Wanna Do Something Freaky To You ...... Count Dee's Hit ExplosionIt's a Beautiful Day ..... Michael BubleLets Get it On ..... Marvin GayeBurning Love ..... Elvis PresleyTake Me To Church ..... HozierAm I The Same Girl ..... Swing Out Sister & The FallWalking On Sunshine ..... Katerina & The WavesThese Boots Are Made For Walkin' ..... Nancy SinatraBarracuda ..... HeartDancing Queen ..... ABBAP.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) ..... Michael JacksonWicked Game ..... Chris IssacI'm Every Woman ..... Whitney Houston
I Will Survive ..... Gloria Gaynor
Respect ... Aretha Franklin
It's usually a combination of things that will draw a certain song to a book playlist. Whether it's a sound, or a line of lyrics, or it reminds me of a certain scene or character. For my Libby Garrett soundtrack, it was definitely all about the Character.
Libby Garrett is a one-of-a-kind girl. Her personality is so big, that she tends to be a spotlight hog. It was no different when I put together my playlist for The Libby Garrett Intervention. This songs on this list don't so much remind me of the book as they just feel like Libby. That said, check it out and give it a listen. I guarantee you will come to understand Libby just a little bit better. Here they are in my actual playlist order.
Drumroll please...
I Wanna Do Something Freaky To You ...... Count Dee's Hit ExplosionIt's a Beautiful Day ..... Michael BubleLets Get it On ..... Marvin GayeBurning Love ..... Elvis PresleyTake Me To Church ..... HozierAm I The Same Girl ..... Swing Out Sister & The FallWalking On Sunshine ..... Katerina & The WavesThese Boots Are Made For Walkin' ..... Nancy SinatraBarracuda ..... HeartDancing Queen ..... ABBAP.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) ..... Michael JacksonWicked Game ..... Chris IssacI'm Every Woman ..... Whitney Houston
I Will Survive ..... Gloria Gaynor
Respect ... Aretha Franklin
The Libby Garrett Intervention Cover Reveal
Welcome to Day 2 of Science Geek Appreciation Week with Author Kelly Oram! If you missed yesterday's post about The Avery Shaw Experiment, you can check it out HERE. And don't forget to stop by the Facebook party for all kinds of extra bonus material, games and giveaways. There's a new giveaway every day. CLICK HERE TO PARTY!
Now... On to the cover reveal for The Libby Garrett Intervention!
The Spanish Fork High Science Squad is back in this hilarious and heartwarming companion novel to The Avery Shaw Experiment.
Libby Garrett is addicted to Owen Jackson's hot lovin'. But the sexy, popular college basketball player doesn't appreciate all of Libby's awesomeness. He refuses to be exclusive or even admit to people that they're dating. The relationship is ruining Libby and she's the only one who can't see it.
When Libby's behavior spirals completely out of control, her best friend Avery Shaw and the rest of the Science Squad stage an intervention hoping to cure Libby of her harmful Owen addiction. They put her through her very own Twelve Step program—Owen's Anonymous—and recruit the help of a sexy, broody, hard-as-nails coffee man to be her official sponsor.
...
Adam Koepp has watched Libby Garrett for years. How could he not notice the sassy girl with the purple skateboard and helmet plastered with cat stickers? But in all the years he's crushed on her, Libby has failed to take notice of him. Why would she when he was just a nobody high school drop out who served her apple cider several times a week? Especially when she was hooking up with a guy like Owen Jackson—a guy with a college scholarship and more abs than Kyle Hamilton.
Adam finally gets the chance to meet Libby when his co-worker Avery Shaw recruits him to take Libby on the journey of a lifetime. With his ability to play Bad Cop and his experience with the Twelve Step program he's the perfect candidate to be Libby's sponsor. But will he be able to keep his personal feelings out of the matter and really help her the way she needs? And will Libby hate him when he forces her to take an honest look at herself?
Teasers
Libby Avery sighed. “This isn’t an attack, Libby, it’s an intervention.”My head snapped Avery’s direction. “Homegirl says what?” Avery smiled again, but this time it was full of determination. “You have a problem, Libby. We’ve all come here tonight because we love you and we’re worried about you.”“Okay, someone definitely cooked up something special in the chem lab or something. You’ve all officially gone mental. I’m not on drugs.”Avery shook her head. “But your relationship with Owen is just as destructive.”I’d heard enough. “An intervention?” They were comparing me to a drug addict and saying Owen was my crack? “I came here to apologize to all of you and this is what I get?” I jumped to my feet. “This is such equus ferus feces!”I bolted for the door and got about three steps before Adam intercepted me, blocking the way like a lean, tattoo-covered wall of attitude. He stood in a typical bouncer’s stance with his feet shoulder width apart and his arms folded across his chest. Though he wasn’t particularly tall or bulky, he was still intimidating. I glared up at him. “And you’re a gluteus maximus!”Adam’s face pulled into a frown and he looked to the group to translate. Aiden grinned. “That’s Libby speak for ‘This is horse shit’ and ‘You’re an ass’.”Adam brought his gaze back to me, and I kept up my glare, refusing to take it back. I waited for him to flip out on me, but was shocked when his lips twitched as if he was fighting a smile. I had to be wrong, though, because there was no way this jerk had a sense of humor. “Get out of my way.”He face hardened again. “You sit that luscious little gluteus maximus of yours back down on that couch right now,” he said, “or I’ll put it there myself.” It really does not happen often, but I was rendered completely speechless. I was also unable to move, save the way my eyes tripled in size as I gawked at him. He gave me a dry look and added, “Capisce, Cider Chick?”
Adam
When I looked at Libby, she shrugged as though she was as helpless in this situation as I was. “Help me, Coffee-Wan Kenobi. You’re my only hope.”It was so Libby. “Okay.” I prayed I wasn’t making a huge mistake.Kate and Avery both squealed and pounced on me, giving me hugs. I was still wary, but their energy was contagious and I cracked a smile.“Thank you, Adam,” Avery said. “You really, really are the best. Is there any chance you could get started tomorrow? Libby managed to say no to Owen tonight, but if we don’t help keep her distracted tomorrow, she’s going to end up in his very expensive hotel suite tomorrow night.”And just like that, all my reservations about this disappeared. I was all in, and failure was not an option. Libby was never going to end up in that jerk’s bed ever again if I could help it. “Tomorrow’s as good a day as any. I’m off work at two.”Libby was already at the door trying to escape, but she stopped before turning the knob. “Actually, I need you ready to go at seven thirty in the morning. Avery already cleared it with your boss. He was more than happy to take your shift. He said he’s been trying to get you to take a vacation day for months.”My head reared back. “You cleared my schedule tomorrow?”Libby looked me right in the eyes and grinned wickedly. The smile did something to my insides. “You’re mine tomorrow, Coffee Man,” she purred jokingly.I stopped breathing. Hers. Yes. Yes I was. Heaven help me, but I was hers. This was so bad. If I wasn’t careful Libby Garrett was going to break me. I had to take control of this situation fast. I don’t know what kind of look I had on my face when I stalked across the room toward her, but her eyes widened and she backed up until she bumped into the door. “You’ve got that all wrong,” I said, placing my hand on the door beside her head, trapping her in front of me. I’d meant to intimidate her a little, but when she sucked in a breath and shivered, I lost control again. I leaned in a little too close and my next words accidentally came out in a possessive growl. “Starting tomorrow, Cider Chick, you are mine.”
Coming October 24th! Available for pre-order
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This follow-up companion novel to The Avery Shaw Experiment can be read as a stand alone. (But where's the fun in that?) The Avery Shaw Experiment is only $0.99 right now. So why wait until October to meet Libby when you can fall in love with her right now for only a dollar?
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Kelly wrote her first novel at age fifteen--a fan fiction about her favorite music group, The Backstreet Boys, for which her family and friends still tease her. She's obsessed with reading, talks way too much, and likes to eat frosting by the spoonful. She lives outside of Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, four children, and her cat, Mr. Darcy. Connect with Kelly Newsletter Amazon Facebook Twitter
August 3, 2015
Spotlight The Avery Shaw Experiment
Welcome to Day 1 of Science Geek Appreciation Week with author Kelly Oram--a fun-filled week of teasers, interviews, games, giveaways, and lots and lost of science! We're going to kick off the week by introducing you to the stars of the Spanish Fork High Science Squad--Club President Avery Shaw and her newest recruit, Grayson Kennedy--in their debut novel The Avery Shaw Experiment.
Title: The Avery Shaw ExperimentAuthor: Kelly Oram
Publisher: Blufields
Pages:221
Available: Amazon, iBooks, B&N, Kobo
Summary: When Avery Shaw’s heart is shattered by her life-long best friend, she chooses to deal with it the only way she knows how—scientifically.
The state science fair is coming up and Avery decides to use her broken heart as the topic of her experiment. She’s going to find the cure. By forcing herself to experience the seven stages of grief through a series of social tests, she believes she will be able to get over Aiden Kennedy and make herself ready to love again. But she can’t do this experiment alone, and her partner (ex partner!) is the one who broke her heart.
Avery finds the solution to her troubles in the form of Aiden’s older brother Grayson. The gorgeous womanizer is about to be kicked off the school basketball team for failing physics. He’s in need of a good tutor and some serious extra credit. But when Avery recruits the lovable Grayson to be her “objective outside observer,” she gets a whole lot more than she bargained for, because Grayson has a theory of his own: Avery doesn’t need to grieve. She needs to live. And if there’s one thing Grayson Kennedy is good at, it’s living life to the fullest.
Teasers:Avery
I was so out of it that I’d slipped into the bathroom while Grayson was in the shower, and I didn’t even notice until he poked his head out from behind the curtain with a surprised look on his face. “Aves, babe, I’m a little busy here.” He cocked an eyebrow and gave me a crooked smile. “Unless you’re planning to join me...?”
Just then there was a loud knock on the door, and my mother’s worried voice called out to me. I looked up at Grayson and in a moment of sheer panic didn’t think twice before jumping behind the curtain with him.
“Whoa! Avery! I was only teasing!”
I could hear Grayson, but I couldn’t really respond. I leaned my back against the cold tile wall and closed my eyes, letting the hot water rain down on me.
There was another knock, louder this time, and then the door opened. “Avery? That you in here, sweetie?”
I frantically shook my head, praying that Grayson would do the right thing.
“Sorry, Kaitlin. It’s just me.”
“Oh. Sorry, Grayson. I thought maybe you were Avery.”
“Yeah, I get that a lot,” he teased.
My mom laughed and then sighed heavily. “If you see her after you’re done, tell her I’m looking for her.”
“Will do.”
The door clicked shut and things got quiet. I stood there for so long that my head started to hurt and I got really dizzy. My knees buckled.
Grayson quickly caught me under the arms. “Avery, breathe,” he commanded.
I took a breath. As oxygen flooded my lungs, I realized it was probably the first breath I’d taken in minutes. Literally.
“Aves,” a low steady voice said. I felt hands on either side of my face. I opened my eyes, and Grayson’s beautiful piercing blue ones were staring down at me from just inches away, taking up my entire field of vision. “You good now?” he asked.
I may have been breathing, but I would never be “good” again. I flung my arms around him and began to release gut-wrenching sobs into his chest.
Grayson
I always looked at her as sort of a pesky little sister, but that all changed the day my brother dumped her. Why, you ask? Let me put it this way: When a girl lets you be the one to hold her as her entire world falls apart, even though you’re ass naked, it changes the way you see her. The soaking-wet, see-through t-shirt didn’t hurt, either.
...
“You look really nice,” I blurted, unable to hide my surprise.
The compliment startled her. She blushed and looked at her feet as she mumbled, “I need to blow my hair dry.”
I grinned. “Don’t want to have to explain to anyone how it got wet, eh?”
She turned even brighter red but then glared at me. “I just don’t want my hair to freeze.”
I laughed as I threw my hands up in surrender and then laughed even harder when she stalked past me into the bathroom.
I leaned against the door and watched, curiously, as she dried her hair. There was something oddly fascinating about watching Little Avery Shaw primp. She’d never seemed like such a real girl to me before. She wasn’t so little anymore, either.
She caught me staring at her in the mirror, so I quickly said, “I thought dorks were supposed to have bad hair and horrible, frumpy fashion senses.”
“Just because I enjoy learning doesn’t mean I’m a dork,” she said, insulted.
“Two words for you Aves: science club.”
This week only, The Avery Shaw Experiment is on sale for just $0.99! Make sure to snag a copy while it's cheap! Amazon * iBooks * B&N * Kobo
For more bonus material, teasers, games, and chances to win things like signed books and swag stop by the Facebook event, happening now through Friday. Click Here to Party!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Kelly wrote her first novel at age fifteen--a fan fiction about her favorite music group, The Backstreet Boys, for which her family and friends still tease her. She's obsessed with reading, talks way too much, and likes to eat frosting by the spoonful. She lives outside of Phoenix, Arizona with her husband, four children, and her cat, Mr. Darcy. Connect with Kelly Newsletter Amazon Facebook Twitter
July 1, 2015
Science Geek Appreciation Week August 3 - 7
Join the Facebook event to participate in extra games and giveaways
Hey everyone! I don't know if you've heard the news or not yet, but the science squad is back! Avery and Grayson may have had their romance already, but science geek Libby's is just heating up in her very own companion novel to The Avery Shaw Experiment.
The Libby Garrett Intervention is set to release October 24, 2015. To help me spread the word, bloggers around the globe are letting me commandeer their blogs August 3 - 7 in a week long cover reveal and sneak peek event!
Here's a breakdown of what you can look forward to.
Monday Aug 3 – The Avery Shaw Experiment spotlight including cover, summary, links, and a teaser.
Tuesday Aug 4 – The Libby Garrett Intervention cover reveal including cover, summary, preorder links, and a teaser.
Wednesday Aug 5 – A post from me (author Kelly Oram) including fun facts, my inspiration/experience writing the Science Squad books, some of my favorite reads, and a couple of interview questions.
Thursday Aug 6 – A post about The Avery Diaries. (Six short stories taken from Avery and Grayson’s diaries.) The post will feature a brief explanation of the diaries and feature one of the stories with links to the others.
Friday Aug 7 – The Libby Garrett Intervention sneak peek including the first-ever excerpt from the book, and a message from Kelly Oram. Along with a few photo teasers to share.
Along with these awesome posts, there will be extra games and giveaways on Facebook, and best of all The Avery Shaw Experiment will be on sale for just $0.99 the whole week so you can read the story that started it all for next to nothing! Mark you calendars guys. You won't want to miss it.
TO PARTICIPATE IN THE GAMES AND GIVEAWAYS CLICK HERE AND JOIN THE FACEBOOK EVENT
*If you're a book blogger and haven't signed up to participate, but would like to, here's the sign-up form with all the information. SIGN UP
And as always, being on my newsletter mailing list gives you special perks. (Because my peeps are very special to me!) Newsletter subscribers will get to see the Libby cover early, have their own private giveaway on top of all this fun, and they'll get an exclusive peek at my next big project! Shhh! It's still a secret! If you want to be one of my awesome special peeps that I occasionally reward with cool stuff, SUBSCRIBE HERE!
April 30, 2015
Cover Reveal! Joni, Underway by Kelly Oram and Jonathan Harrow!
Surprise! I've got a new book coming out soon. I'm really excited about this release because it's a bit different than my usual contemporary reads. It's a character-driven new adult drama that I've co-written with Jonathan Harrow. (Who happens to be my genius screenwriter-turned-novelist husband.) So without further adieu, I'd like to introduce to you, Joni, Underway.
Title: Joni, UnderwayAuthor: Kelly Oram & Jonathan HarrowPublisher: BluefieldsRelease Date: August 22, 2015
Summary:Nineteen year old Joni is loving life as an adult—living on her own, dealing with grown-up things like jobs, hook-ups, and doing her own laundry. Best of all: after finishing her first year at ASU, she will never again be called a freshman.
But when her brother is suddenly killed in a car accident, Joni’s adult life is turned upside down. Struggling to cope with loss, guilt, and anger—not to mention the meddling of friends and family trying to “fix” her—Joni is relieved to be presented with an escape in the form of a sailing trip her brother had been planning for months before he died.
With her first step onto the sailing vessel Lady Marguerite, Joni plunges into an adventure that will mark the beginning of her real adult life—a journey across the ominous dark blue of the Atlantic Ocean with a small, eccentric crew, and the young Captain Reid, whose gorgeous looks are only outmatched by his talent for care and kindness. Unfolding through the ups and downs of life at sea is an unforgettable story reminding us that love will always be a work-in-progress and coming of age never gets old.
About the Authors:
Kelly Oram wrote her first novel at age fifteen--a fan fiction about her favorite music group, The Backstreet Boys, for which her family and friends still tease her. She's obsessed with reading, talks way too much, and likes to eat frosting by the spoonful.
Jonathan Harrow left a career in Hollywood to pursue his dream of writing novels. He has an author crush on Charlotte Bronte, and a real crush on his author wife, YA bestseller Kelly Oram.
They live in Phoenix with their four kids and their cat, Mr. Darcy.
Connect with Kelly Newsletter Amazon Facebook Twitter
Connect with Jonathan NewsletterAmazonFacebook Twitter
Don't forget to sign up for my newsletter to be notified when the book becomes available.
April 23, 2015
Cover reveal: Pixilated by L.S.Murphy
Hey guys! I'm helping out a fellow baseball nut with a cover reveal today. She's a Cardinals fan, but I will overlook that little folly (Go Dbacks!) because I had the pleasure of reading Pixilated a few months ago and really enjoyed it. I'm happy to help spread the word about the upcoming release. Check out this cute cover!
Pixelatedby L.S. Murphy Release Date: 06/30/15Bloomsbury Spark
Summary from Goodreads:Senior Year. Middle of nowhere. What's the new girl to do?
For Piper Marks, the answer is simple. She’s determined to have her photography rock the cover of National Geographic someday, and moving to Clarkton, Iowa for her last year of high school is not going to stop her. Even if her usual subjects have changed from bright lights and skyscrapers to fields, cows…and more fields.
But when photographer at the local paper quits in a huff, she steps into his spot. Her new job keeps Piper busy capturing tackles, and zooming in on first downs and end zone dances, not to mention putting her directly in the path of varsity football star Les Williams IV. Her new friends warn her off, but she can’t resist the pull she feels toward this mysterious country boy. But this small town is keeping a secret, and it’s one that could destroy any chance they have to be together.
It’s up to Piper to decide what to do with the distorted truth. Can she risk exposing her heart? It might be worth it, 'cause Les is about to change her world from black and white to fully saturated color.
Praise for Pixelated:
"In Pixelated, L.S. Murphy weaves a complex web of secrets and lies with a ‘will they or won’t they’ romance that kept me turning pages and holding my breath!" ~ Julie Reece, author of The Artisans and Crux
"Beautifully written, with a full spectrum of emotion and complex characters, Pixelated will tug at all your heartstrings. I easily lost myself in the world L.S. Murphy created and couldn't stop reading because I needed to see how the story ended." ~ Kelly Oram, author of Cinder & Ella
"L.S. Murphy brings something for every reader with Pixelated: romance, secrets, mystery, and a main character torn between two choices. Murphy's writing is sharp and steeped in emotions, deftly hooking her readers from the first sentence to the last." ~ Sarah Bromley, author of A Murder Of Magpies About the Author
L.S. Murphy obsesses about St. Louis Cardinals baseball, fangirls over her favorite authors, and watches every episode of Doctor Who like it's the first time. When she's not doing those time-consuming things, the former farm-girl turned city slicker turned suburbanite writes sweet romances for teens and adults.Website: lsmurphy.comTwitter @LSMurphy
Pixelatedby L.S. Murphy Release Date: 06/30/15Bloomsbury Spark
Summary from Goodreads:Senior Year. Middle of nowhere. What's the new girl to do?
For Piper Marks, the answer is simple. She’s determined to have her photography rock the cover of National Geographic someday, and moving to Clarkton, Iowa for her last year of high school is not going to stop her. Even if her usual subjects have changed from bright lights and skyscrapers to fields, cows…and more fields.
But when photographer at the local paper quits in a huff, she steps into his spot. Her new job keeps Piper busy capturing tackles, and zooming in on first downs and end zone dances, not to mention putting her directly in the path of varsity football star Les Williams IV. Her new friends warn her off, but she can’t resist the pull she feels toward this mysterious country boy. But this small town is keeping a secret, and it’s one that could destroy any chance they have to be together.
It’s up to Piper to decide what to do with the distorted truth. Can she risk exposing her heart? It might be worth it, 'cause Les is about to change her world from black and white to fully saturated color.
Praise for Pixelated:
"In Pixelated, L.S. Murphy weaves a complex web of secrets and lies with a ‘will they or won’t they’ romance that kept me turning pages and holding my breath!" ~ Julie Reece, author of The Artisans and Crux
"Beautifully written, with a full spectrum of emotion and complex characters, Pixelated will tug at all your heartstrings. I easily lost myself in the world L.S. Murphy created and couldn't stop reading because I needed to see how the story ended." ~ Kelly Oram, author of Cinder & Ella
"L.S. Murphy brings something for every reader with Pixelated: romance, secrets, mystery, and a main character torn between two choices. Murphy's writing is sharp and steeped in emotions, deftly hooking her readers from the first sentence to the last." ~ Sarah Bromley, author of A Murder Of Magpies About the Author
L.S. Murphy obsesses about St. Louis Cardinals baseball, fangirls over her favorite authors, and watches every episode of Doctor Who like it's the first time. When she's not doing those time-consuming things, the former farm-girl turned city slicker turned suburbanite writes sweet romances for teens and adults.Website: lsmurphy.comTwitter @LSMurphy
April 21, 2015
Cinder & Ella read-along (With me!)
Hey! Adding to the extras page on my blog again. :) This is a video read-along that I did for the Cinder & Ella book release ball. I introduce the book and then read the prologue and chapter one.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
And while I'm at it... (Chameleon/Ungifted playlist)
Since I posted the Scion playlist this morning, I figured I should post the Chameleon/Ungifted playlist for you too. These two books actually share one playlist because I wrote the books simultaneously. I think I was about 2/3 finished with Ungifted when I finished Chameleon. So this playlist is for both books. I even already have a playlist for Priestess, but I'll wait to post that until that book is written because I'm sure I'll add/change it before then.
1. Too Close Alex Clare2. E.T. Katy Perry3. Radioactive Imagine Dragons4. All The Things She Said Tatu5. 24 Jem6. Grenade Bruno Mars7. Here With Me Dido8. Come Undone Duran Duran9. Burning in the Skies Linkin Park10. Say it Right Nelly Furtado11. Extreme Ways Moby12. Echo Trapt
1. Too Close Alex Clare2. E.T. Katy Perry3. Radioactive Imagine Dragons4. All The Things She Said Tatu5. 24 Jem6. Grenade Bruno Mars7. Here With Me Dido8. Come Undone Duran Duran9. Burning in the Skies Linkin Park10. Say it Right Nelly Furtado11. Extreme Ways Moby12. Echo Trapt
