Nadiya
asked
Laurie Halse Anderson:
Why haven't you written any books with LGBT characters? I love your books and feel they are realistic portrayals of teenagers, but LGBT people are also part of this reality.
Laurie Halse Anderson
Thank you for asking this!! You are one hundred percent correct about the reality of LGBT people. I have been learning about the lives of LGBT teens and trying to be a good ally to them forever. As soon as the right story about an LGBT character (or characters) pops up in my head, I'll write it!!
But it has to be the Right Story. Trying to force an issue, i.e. "Let's Write About Teh Gay," never works. If you ever read a truly disrespectful, cringe-worthy book, it probably started in that mind-set. The best stories come out of a deep, organic place. I don't know how it works for other writers, but I've learned to be patient with the process.
While you are waiting for me, I hope you are reading books like the ones you can find listed in this tumblr post by the wonderful Nita Tyndall: http://nitatyndall.tumblr.com/post/11...
Can I ask you a question? What do you think are the best books with LGBT characters?
But it has to be the Right Story. Trying to force an issue, i.e. "Let's Write About Teh Gay," never works. If you ever read a truly disrespectful, cringe-worthy book, it probably started in that mind-set. The best stories come out of a deep, organic place. I don't know how it works for other writers, but I've learned to be patient with the process.
While you are waiting for me, I hope you are reading books like the ones you can find listed in this tumblr post by the wonderful Nita Tyndall: http://nitatyndall.tumblr.com/post/11...
Can I ask you a question? What do you think are the best books with LGBT characters?
More Answered Questions
Kyleah
asked
Laurie Halse Anderson:
Hi Laurie. I am a sophomore in high school. I'm a very big fan. I aspire to become an amazing author such as yourself; I first read your book, Wintergirls, when I was in 9th grade. It inspired me immensely. I try as hard as possible to write like you, but I'm not as quite good as you are. Could you please explain your process and how you get some of your ideas? I would truly appreciate it. Thank you.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more