I was an explorer from a young age. I collected stories and experiences the way other kids collected trading cards, and more often than not, you could find me playing with books and instead of Barbie dolls. Although I didn’t know I wanted to be a writer at an early age, the journey to this point has been fulfilling and full of surprises.

1. I Was an Avid Reader at an Early Age

From a young age, books were my constant companions. I devoured stories, losing myself in fantastical worlds and thrilling adventures. The magic of books was my introduction to the limitless possibilities of the imagination. Each page was a new adventure, and I couldn’t get enough.

If it hadn’t been for early reading programs like Book It and Reading Rainbow, I would not have falling in love with storytelling, and I’m so thankful to all the adults who fostered my early love of learning.

2. I’ve Always Loved Writing

My love for reading never waned as I grew older. It expanded into various genres and authors, from the spooky tales of R.L. Stine to the intricate worlds crafted by Stephen King. Reading became more than just a pastime; it was a source of inspiration and a way to explore different perspectives and ideas.

But soon, I found myself asking what would happen if the story unfolded differently. I invented new endings and wondered what would happen if characters from one book suddenly met the characters in another… and that’s how I knew that storytelling was my passion.

3. I Love a Challenge

Writing presents a unique challenge that I find incredibly fulfilling. Crafting a story, developing characters, and weaving intricate plots requires not only creativity but also dedication and perseverance. Each writing project is a puzzle waiting to be solved, a mountain to be climbed. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.

Pocket Full of Teeth is not the first novel I’ve ever written. In fact, it’s the third. I still play with the second novel I wrote, but the first one will never see the light of day. Haha! I don’t, however, see it as a failure. My first novel taught me a lot about how to develop characters and plot their journey. Without that first “failure,” I never would have learned how to move forward and progress.

4. I Love Playing with Language

There’s a certain joy in the art of language. Playing with words, crafting sentences, and creating vivid imagery is a delight. Writing allows me to experiment with language, to bend and shape it to convey emotions, ideas, and stories in the most impactful way. It’s a creative playground where I can let my imagination run wild.

I absolutely love poetry, and often when I get stuck or just want to play with an idea, I try to think like a poet. When I described fireworks in Pocket Full of Teeth, for example, I used the term “colorful thunder.” The bright sparks, the booming that you can feel in your chest–these are all things that can bring those feeling to life with just a few simple words.

5. I Wanted to Connect with Others in Creative Ways

At its core, writing is about connection. It’s a way to share thoughts, experiences, and emotions with others. Through my stories, I hope to resonate with readers, to offer them a glimpse into different worlds, and perhaps even help them see their own lives in a new light. Writing is my way of reaching out, of building bridges between my experiences and the reader’s.

Takeaways

These five reasons are at the heart of why I became a writer. Each one has shaped my journey, fueling my passion and driving me to create. Writing is more than just a profession; it’s a calling, a way of life that brings me immense joy and fulfillment. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope my stories inspire you as much as the stories I’ve read have inspired me.

-Aimee Hardy