Ashley asked Laurie Halse Anderson:

I really look up to you not only as a writing but as a person. I was wondering if you have any tips for my situation? Well, the town I live in, and have lived in for over 10 years, there has been a series of deaths; we've had over 30 since December. I'm still only 15 but, I really want to make a difference in my town. Not only for me, but for my younger sibling and students that feel as if they don't have a voice.

Laurie Halse Anderson I am so sorry that you all are going through that nightmare. At the same time, I'm proud of you for recognizing the need for leadership, both as an older sibling and within your community.

In my experience, talking can help with the sadness that death brings. But sometimes you might not want to talk. That's when it's important to have something to DO - something physical and healthy. I think that is why 5K walks and runs are so popular. When a group of people come together for a common cause and move their bodies - be it walking, or rehabbing a building, cleaning a park, - positive and healing energy is created.

Also make sure that everyone has access to hotlines like To Write Love On Her Arms: https://twloha.com/, The Trevor Project: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/, RAINN: https://rainn.org/get-help/national-s..., and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://rainn.org/get-help/national-s...

Thank you again for caring. You are an amazing person!

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