Click here to ask Sarah!

[Tasnuva]

Hey Sarah!
Of all questions, Why do you like to write these kind of books about girls life's? Do you know people who have the same life or similar? My favorite books you have wrote so far are That Summer,Someone Like You,and This Lulluby. Your books are perfect for me to read over the summer when I'm really bored! Hahaha! What's your favorite book that you have wrote so far? Thanks! ♥♥♥

[Ryan]

how can i read a book in this site?

[Jewels]

How do you develop your characters so realistically? Your characters are amazing!

[Bethany]

Hi Sarah! To gear up for the release of TM&M, I re-read all (yes ALL) of your books :D And I had two random questions...

In THIS LULLABY - did Perfect Paul react to the breakup in the first of the two ways? (meaning, he actually did care about her?)

In THE TRUTH ABOUT FOREVER - was Wes' question that he wanted to ask Macy what he asked her that night during the argument? Or did he actually just want to ask her out, but had to wait to break up with his girlfriend first?

THANKS!

[Sydney]

Hey there Sarah! I've been reading your books for the last couple of years, and have had the pleasure to read them all. I can relate to a lot of the issues that your characters experience and you are one of my favorite authors. I have two questions... My first one is, where do you get the inspiration for your characters and for the story lines? My second question is, do you plan on ever writing any follow-up books on any of your previous stories? Like what ever happened to Colie and Norman? Or Macy and Wes? I know that some of your characters from previous books make cameos from time to time, but I've always wondered if you would continue on any of their stories, or just leave them frozen in time in that particular book. I sincerely hope you continue on writing books for years to come..

- Sydney

[Maddi]

Hi Sarah!! My name is Maddi and your book The Truth About Forever started my love for reading! i just wanted to ask how you started writing and what is your favourite book (besides your own)? xx :)

[Cassie]

Hi Sarah! First I absolutely love all your books especially Along For The Ride, amazing! Who is your favorite character you've written about?

[Nick]

Hey Sarah!! I absolutely love your novels!! My all time fav is The truth about forever!! I cant express in the right words how awesome that book was..and Wes is the best character EVER!! how do you manage to write such wonderful stories?? Who or What is your inspiration? And if you were given a chance to direct a movie based on your book which would it be? and why? Actually i have loads of questions more..but youll definitely get bored.Anyway i am a Huge fan. Thankyou for writing such heartwarming and unforgettable stories!!! Ur Fantastic !!

[Anna]

Hi Sarah!I'm a big fan of yours and I've read most of your books, I always recomend people to read them because they have a special place in my heart.

My question:
I've noticed that there are common themes in your books. It's often teenagers with problematic childhoods, divorced parents or something similair. Another thing is the location Colby.
Does this reflect on your on life? Or how come these themes are big parts of your books?

My english is not very good soo I hope you understand my question. Love from Sweden!

[Amy]

Hello Sarah Dessen! I'm sad to say that I have only read one of your books which is 'Just Listen'( which I found a beautiful read). I guess I am a new fan! Your writing style is great! I have always wanted to be a writer when I grow up and have started a few book ideas already. I would just like to ask how you plan or not plan your books. Also do your stories come from inspiration or do you just suddenly get an idea. :) Thank you :)
From a true fan!

Amy x

[Aisha Reads]

Hi, I've loved your books for as long as i can remember and i'm pretty sure i'll still buy them when i'm 30!

My question for you is which character's development was hardest to write in a logical way, considering how much you've tweeted about writers block?
Also, how fun is it for you to sneak older characters into your books? have you ever thought about introducing older characters and having them be central to the plot, not like Jason, but for example having Remy in the next book becoming friends with the newly established character?
Thanks in advance!

[Sab]

Hi Sarah! I am a huge fan and I've read nearly all of your books. You have an amazing skill in writing and I look up to you. I recently finished The Moon and More and enjoyed it, but I have to admit that the end didn't stick with me as much as the endings of some of your other books (especially Along for the Ride and Just Listen) did, probably because it was different from what I was used to and what I expected. I thought about it for a moment and realized that even though it did not have the ending I anticipated, The Moon and More was very truthful, realistic, and most of all, unique, and I thank you for that. This brings me to my question: are you ever worried about repetition - of plots, character traits, themes, etc.? I've grown fond of Colby and the people in it, and I doubt I will every get tired of it, but I have seen reviews talking about how your books are identical in several ways, usually in the way that the main character has some personal or family issues, meets a boy, and then loses her relationship with the boy, but gets back together with him when she gets to solve her own personal issues. I, however, enjoy your stories because you still manage to give them their own individuality. How do you achieve this? Someday I'd like to write a novel, but I'm always afraid of how similar some of my ideas are to existing stories. What makes you confident that each new story has its own originality?
Thank you very much! :)

[Remmy]

Hey, I am Remmy. How do you make your characters look so realistic? How do you get your ideas for the books which are so perfect and successful. Your books are an inspiration for me :)
-remmy

[Emma]

Hi Ms. Dessen. I was wondering how you get your inspiration for your stories. Also, where do the names of your characters come from? They're all very unique, which is why I like them. I'm a big fan of yours and I've read all of your books. My favorites are Along For the Ride and This Lullaby. Thank you so much!

[Barbara]

Sarah, welcome to the group. My name is Barbara, I go to the University of Florida, and I am an English and psych major. I've always seriously considered writing as a career, but currently I am completing an internship for dolphin training.
Did you always know you wanted to write, or did you consider something else?
Is writing a feasible career, or does one have to have a side job when they start out?
How did you decide you were going to write young adult fiction? Would you ever write anything else?
Do you ever incorporate personal aspects into your writing-- like basing characters on real people? Does anyone ever notice?
Have you ever had someone critique what you do or write about? How do you motivate yourself to keep going?
Does your husband like to read? Does he read your work?
What is your favorite book?
Tips for good character development--particularly for antagonist.

Thank you for your time. I've read all of your books, they are all wonderful; my favorite is 'The Truth About Forever'. My friends and I used to play the truth game. I hope you continue on to write many more.

[NightBird]

Hi Sarah! I absolutely LOVE your books. I've read all of them except To the Moon and More, but I'm sure it will be wonderful! Anyway I'm wondering how do you write? If that's confusing sorry, what I mean is that your writing is so captivating but its like the opposite of what I usually read. I think that makes you special, I mean you can interest any reader! And I wonder how do you get your ideas? And not just ideas but the story itself? Does it just come to you one day or do you gradually think up the story then write it? I sort of write not like my book is being published but if I wrote it down on paper then typed it it would completely change. So I sort of make it up as I go changing little details. Is that what you do? Anyway sorry about all the questions, and I am so happy that you can answer our questions!

[Jackie]

Hi Sarah! I feel like I'm being a bit superfluous after all of the brilliant comments above but that might be indicative of something; all of these people are in love with your writing, and for good reason! I've read The Truth About Forever countless times and still fall for Wes with every revisit. How do you do that to a reader? I'm taking creative writing classes so I understand the basis of creating novels and other literary works of art. I was just wondering how you stayed on track, persevered through writer's block, and upgraded your stories and ideas to full blown novels? Thanks so much for being such a fantastic writer and inspiration.

[Lindsay]

Hi Sarah! I love all of your books and I was just wondering how you make you characters so relatable? I was also wondering which one of your characters is your favorite out of all the ones you have written about?
-Lindsay

[Elizabeth]

Hello Sarah!

I have been reading your books in high school and noticed that the boys always seem to be quirky and have a fun or different side job. Is there someone in your life who kind of fit that "quirky guy" model you seem to use?

Thanks so much for answering questions! Can't wait to read your new book!

[Rabia]

Hi Sarah my name is Rabia and I've read all your books pretty much and I am in love with them. I was wondering how many more books do you plan on writing.

[Evelinn]

Hi Sarah!
I'm a fifteen year old girl from Sweden, and I've read all of your books (In English, because the translations were no good)
I just finished the Moon and More this morning, and I really loved it!
One thing that struck me especially is that you let characters from pervious books come back! When I realized that connection I thought "She is a GENIOUS!" The fact that it's a new story for each book, but some people and places still remain. It's really impressive and it keeps the characters alive :)

Here are my questions:
a) Do you have one of your books that you could say is your favorite?
b) Do you have any characters that you're especially fond of?
c) How do come up with the names? (Do they relate to you the way Heidi's store Clementine's relate to the name of your daughter?)
d)What inspiers YOU to write?
e)Many of your books take place in Colby. Out of curiosity, why's that?
f) Who is YOUR favorite author?
And at last, g) What makes you push a story all the way to the very end? Do you plan your books in advance, I mean? Do you get stuck, or do you have, like, some trick to avoid that?
For 3 years, I've been writing, but I always get stuck when I'm halfway, and I end up throwing it all away. Then I start over. (This process is repeated MANY times, I've lost count)So I can sit for hours and hours and be really proud of what i've achieved. Every time I'm sure I'll work it out, but then somewhere between 20-30 pages, I get stuck AGAIN; by then I'm worn out, and I'm still in the middle. How do you do it when you write?

Finally, I want to simply THANK YOU for writing these awesome books. I think every teenager (and adult) can relate to them in a way, and they're so inspiring - they've really helped me give my own writing a second chance! Now, I know that since you've just given out your latest book, it'll probably be a while - but whatever you may write in the future, you've gained my trust!
- Thanks!

[Liz]

Hi Sarah! I love your books! Keep writing! My sister's name is Sarah, and she also loves your books. Thank you for putting your masterpieces out for the world to read!

[Chelle𓆏]

Hey Sarah! I just want to say that I love your earlier books such as Dreamland, which is my fave as weird as that seems, Someone Like You, and This Lullaby. Dreamland was what I think stuck out most from all your books because it was so dark and real. And I thought Someone Like You was so authentic and original. And I remember back when you were writing This Lullaby and you wanted to make Remy stand out from your past other female characters and you did and I loved it. I do hope in the future that you continue to progress in your writing.

[Arianna]

Hey Sarah!(: You are a amazing writer! I love your books and i can relate so much. I was wondering, where do you find your inspiration for your books? Is it from personal experience or what? Thank you for reading this(:

[Kelly]

Hi Sarah! I was wondering do you find it easier to write your characters as only children or with siblings? And is it easier to write brothers or sisters for your characters?

[Stephanie]

Hi Sarah! Like others in this group, I'm a huge fan! I love your work and appreciate the time you put into making so many great stories and realistic characters. I was wondering, how did you handle writer's block? And, in later drafts of your books, did you or your editor go back and change particular words to make it sound and look better? Meaning, your first drafts might be plain or simple compared to your last draft? I feel silly asking, but I guess I'm looking for reassurance. This is normal for any author, right? Thank you for taking the time to respond, it means a lot :)

[Jasmine]

Hi, Sarah. You are one of my favorite writers. My favorite book is Someone Like You. I like writing, but I often get writers block and have trouble developing the plot. Where do you get your ideas and inspiration? Do you plan your stories from the beginning or do you figure it out as you go? What is your method for developing the perfect plot?

[Martha]

Hey Sarah! My name is martha!! And I absolutely love your books, you have inspired me to become a writer! What inspired you to start writing books?

[Kristin]

Hi Sarah,

I've been reading your books for over a decade now and am currently reading The Moon and More. Personally, I think The Moon and More is your best book yet. What have you learned about writing since you first starting publishing your books?

Also, do you ever read reviews of your books on Goodreads? What is that like for you as an author after working on your novels by yourself for so long?

Thanks so much for your time!

Best,
Kristin

[Shaina]

Hey there Sarah,

I'm Shaina! I'm not sure if you remember me but I met you at the MLK Library on June 4th. I was the one who lovvveedd Rogerson. If you don't mind I have a question for you that I was too nervous to even think of asking when I met you. I'm fully aware that you do not write sequels to your books, but do you think that maybe you could write a book based off Dreamland but from Rogerson's point of view? Like what his thoughts were during the time him and Caitlin were together? His side of the story? Or maybe you could write a book from Cass' point of view? Her story? I don't know just a thought. I've read all of your books and they're all amazing! Although I do wish that I could've gotten a t-shirt at your signing, maybe next time.

I hope you notice this question,

Shaina

[[deleted user]]

Hey Sarah! I became a fan because of my friend and I love her for that. I am now one of your biggest fan. One question I have is When Writing do you ever feel like giving up? I love writing I really do but sometimes I start to lose focus and get to a point where I want to give up. :)

[Amanda]

Hi Sarah! Who is your favorite character out of all your books? Personally, I admire Ruby's independence. I even bought a key necklace like her. Also, the advice you gave at Books & Books in Miami about your writing process is something I try to keep in mind when I get stuck. Thanks for everything! :)

x
A

[Ryan]

Hi Sarah!! My name is Ryan and I really love your work even if I read only two books from you - That Summer and your new book The Moon and More. My question is that your books are about reality and relationships and romance and so how come you don't write about fantasy books. And your books are not series but some characters are from spin-off books and the question is are you going to write a series and what is it about? And if you are reading this today Sarah I hope you will make me as a friend and also I want to be a writer in the future so how do you get to be in the publisher company so make sure to ask me Sarah. Bye:)

[Ally]

Do you have a list of book ideas that you fall back on or do you just think of them as you go?

[Michelle]

Hello Sarah!

My friend and I have been reading your books for a long time and absolutely love them! "Just Listen" is our favorite by far. I was wondering whether you chose the Young Adult genre or did it choose you? Thanks!

All the Best,
Michelle Childers

[Liz]

Hi Sarah, I've never really had the chance to ask one of my favorite authors a question before, so thank you for taking the time! I wanted to know how you come up with your process of writing, do you focus on a topic, or do you just sit there, think of a story and write? I've been trying to write for years now, normally based off of real life experiences, but my life has changed so much, that I lose track of everything. Do you use a journal or something along those lines to keep your thoughts in line? Thank you!

[M]

Was it foreshadowing that everyone hated Theo? cause I sure didn't like him (and I've liked almost all of your other books' love interests). I enjoyed a lot this book and I love love love the easter eggs, my question is: do you know already if the next book will be set in Colby again or Lakeview?

[Angela]

Hi Sarah! I just finished The Moon and More and loved it. I live in a small beach community, so I can totally relate to Colby Beach. I have two questions for you, but I will try and keep it short as I know you have lots of questions to answer.
1. I've been following your blog for years and know that you have a little girl. I have an 8-month old and was wondering how you balanced work with having a young infant.
2. All your books go so much deeper than the book jacket copy implies. They are always more than just a girl going through a major change in her life. Some of your insights amaze me, and I wonder if the themes are part of your planning process or if they emerge organically from the writing itself?
I love all your books and am already anticipating your next one!

[Sarah]

Hi Sarah!!! My name is Sarah too!!! :) I'm going to ask the most unoriginal question in the world here: do you have plans for your next novel yet? Any info you can give? My best friend and I love your books and can't stop reading them, The Moon and More was great and we can't wait for what's next! Also, do you think in the future you could come to CT for a tour stop? :)

[Catiri]

Sarah
I am a long time reader and fan and I just wanted to thank you for answering so many questions today! Seriously. You rock.

I know you have said before that you do not plan to write sequels for most of your books and a lot of the future lives of your beloved characters are often seen through 'Easter eggs' in your later novels (which I love). What do you think are your biggest fears that keep you from writing sequels? Or do you stop writing about characters once you feel their story is done?

[Dina]

Hi Sarah my name is Dina!I am a major fan of your works&earning a degree in creative writing. Somehow your books inspired me to follow the path to become an author. As an future author I would like to ask 2 things.One: who or what inspired you to become an author& two: what is the best advice someone has given you?Thank you&have a lovely day!:)

[Deprece]

Hi Sarah! I just want to say that I love your books,I cant wait to read all of The Moon and More,im sure it will be amazing.Has it always been a dream of yours to become a writer?Also,Did you picture yourself doing this?

[Cara]

First of all Sarah you are awesome. I wanted to ask something that I noticed. Why are your main characters usually the youngest in their family or are an only child? I'm just curious if there is a reason for that. And I wanted to ask also who would you likely be best friends with in your books?

Thank you so much for taking your time to look at these questions, and best of luck with your future writing projects.

[[deleted user]]

Hi Sarah Dessen. My name is Yazmeen. And much like everyone else your I not only love your books but theyare also something inspirational and influential.
1)What is the best thing about being an author?
2)If all books were to be destroyed (hopefully not) and you could only save one which one would it be?
3)If you weren't an author what would you be?
4)What made you realize that writing was your destined future?
5)If you could choose to be any character from any book, who would you be?
6)What's the best place to read a book?
7)Have you always loved books or was that something that progressed as you got older?
8)Best thing you have done in your life?
9)What do you regret the most?
10)Were you or are you anything like your characters and are their actions based off of anything you ever did?
Love your books and hopefully one day I will own all your books (signed copies of course) and get to meet you in person. You're truly an amazing author and your books will always be part of my favorites!

[bb.]

Hi Sarah! I know you've probably heard this a bunch of times but your books are amazing and they have a special place in my heart. I was wondering, of all the books you've written, which character is much similar to your own personality when you were a teenager and vice versa. I was also wondering if you will be writing a series in the future. Thank you for taking the time to read this, if you do so. Have a good day! Love you and your books! :-) xx

[Anna]

Hey, I love your books! they are perfect for summer and I'm excited to lye by the pool with a copy of The Moon and More. The only thing I am wondering is what do you think separates The Moon and More from the rest of you books? What makes it stand out?

[Jocie]

Hi Sarah,

I met you in Wellesley on June 5th for the second time and had a blast but didn't have time to ask you a question so here it is:
Are you planning on having an LGBTQ character in one of your books? I feel like it is pretty important to represent marginalized identities and all of your characters thus far have been straight and cisgender.

[Abby]

Hey there Sarah!

My name is Abby and as everyone else in this group has already stated, I'm a big fan of yours and of your writing. If I had to pick a favorite book of yours, I think it would have to be Just Listen.

I have a couple of questions because I'm a curious person and reader: What is your life like when you're in the middle of writing a book or coming up on a deadline? I graduated last year, but when I was in high school I was the editor of the school's award winning yearbook and I remember when deadline was close, I'd take my hairbrush and toothbrush to school with me to conserve time :)

My next question has probably already been asked, and if so, feel free to not answer. How do you seem to put so much of reality into your novels. I do understand that you write for the chicklit/realistic fiction genre and therefore, they must be realistic, but no matter how strong of a personality your characters have, their reactions are always genuine and situations they experience are always realistic. How do you do it?

Thanks Sarah, have a great day!

P.S. Do you have a writing playlist or things that must happen while you're writing (e.g. Hailey only rocked out to classical music at 1:00 AM when she was trying to get her creative juices flowing from her brain and to the paper occupying her line of sight)?

[Iyanna]

Nice to meet you, Miss Sarah Dessen. My question is why do all your books connect somehow? What is the reasoning behind that?

[Genesis]

Hi Sarah! I was wondering what inspires you to write? Do you write how you think you should make the story?