Sssssh! Gossip!
As the author and illustrator of GOSSIP FROM THE GIRLS' ROOM, A Blogtastic! Novel, I feel so very lucky that I get to combine the two things I love the most: writing and drawing.
The most embarrassing question I get asked (and try to dodge) is, "How long have you been drawing/doing art?" Especially when I'm surrounded by experienced artists at galleries or events. Sometimes I'll say "oh, since I was a kid," since really, I did draw as a kid. Or during moments where I feel like being completely honest, I'll quickly say, "beendoingthisfortwoyears." and then change the subject.
So yes, two years ago when I received my first book deal (and told they were keeping my illustrations) I started drawing again just for fun. Things quickly took a turn when I entered a gallery event on a dare, and actually made it in. I've been invited to many art shows and events, sold my art in boutiques, and now it's something I do all the time.
As a kid, I drew a little and wrote a lot. I proclaimed my career as a future author in 6th grade, but never in a gazillion years guessed that I would be an author AND illustrator of my own books. My mom kept all my drawings from when I was very young, so I dug out the box and got a good laugh!
I now sell my art (I like to think I've progressed some since those pictures!) and Blogtastic! book inspired items in my Etsy shop (www.HappilyEtsyAfter.etsy.com) .
Wow, talk about talent! I can't even draw a stick figure; everything I sketch looks like a malnourished worm. Rose's wonderful blog is here, her website is here, and you can buy her fantastic novel is here! Thank you, Rose.
