Some writers go far beyond the keyboard to get a story right. A.C. Frieden, Jamie Freveletti, Sam Reaves, and Sean Chercover talk candidly about the unusual jobs, risky research, and real world experiences they have taken on in pursuit of authenticity. This session explores how firsthand experience sharpens plot, deepens character, and adds a level of credibility that research alone cannot always provide.
Why Writers Fall in Love With YA
Alison McMahan, Lynn Slaughter, and Sheila Sobel discuss why writers are drawn to young adult fiction and why YA stories resonate far beyond their intended age group. They explore how universal emotions and relatable themes help these stories connect with readers of...




