Goodreads asked Michael Twist:

Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?

Michael Twist As an eighth grade teacher I was frustrated by my inability to read so many of the great, modern YA novels in class because of material that would be deemed inappropriate by some of the parents of my students. I set out to write an inspirational novel that 1.) addressed themes that many/most youth encounter; 2.) would appeal to both genders; 3.) would have enough of an edge to interest YA readers but not so much as to alienate parents' sensibilities. RAYMOND AND TRUDY, I'm hopeful, achieves all three objectives.

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