Interview with YA Author Laura Jackson

Howdy y'all! Crystal here with another amazing Texan to introduce to you. Her debut novel, Worth the Wait, released this week, and it sounds like a great read for all ages. :) Let's get this interview started so you can learn more.

Laura, for those who haven't had the pleasure of meeting you, tell us a bit about yourself.

Hi, I’m a bookworm and proud of it. I taught 7th grade language arts for years and loved it. I became a school librarian a few years ago, and it’s the best of both worlds. I get to work with kids and share great books with them, but I no longer have to grade papers!

You do have a great combination going there and a great book coming out. Congratulations on your new release Worth the Wait! Can you tell us what your story is about?

Ellie Lansing has a picture-perfect life with a close-knit family and the perfect boyfriend. But her world is suddenly knocked off center when her drool-worthy boyfriend cheats, and her always-has-it-together mother is diagnosed with cancer. Ellie doesn't get it. She always does the right thing---doesn't God owe her a happy life? Through her heartache, Ellie learns that sometimes what seems like the end is really just the beginning and that what God has for us is always worth the wait.

That sounds like a wonderful story with a timeless message. What inspired you to write for the young adult audience?

I tried writing a book about adults, but it was horrible. I loved the idea, but it didn’t translate to paper. So, I sat back and thought about my favorite books---most were YA. Ellie popped in my head, and I started writing. 

Do you have a favorite scene in the book? If so, can you tell us a bit about it?

It’s hard. There are a few scenes I love. After Ellie’s world falls apart, her friend Josh, who is an artist, sets up an art studio in his garage. After a little persuading, she finally lets go and paints her emotions out, creating a huge mess.

I need to try this one day!

Sounds fun. :) So tell us... Where can readers find your book and connect with you?

Amazon and BN.com are the easiest places to find Worth the Wait, but you can call Lifeway or Family and request it.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurajacksonwrites
Email: laurajacksonwrites@gmail.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraJackson80
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7203616.Laura_Jackson
Blog/Website: http://authorlaurajackson.blogspot.com/

What do you plan to work on next?

In Worth the Wait, there’s a mean girl named Lindsey. After I finished the book, I wondered why Lindsey was so hateful. So, I’m working on telling her story. It’s been fun figuring her out. Ellie’s such a “good” girl that it was fun to write about a “bad” girl.

Last but not least, apart from writing, what is your favorite creative outlet?

Sleeping. Is that an option? Seriously, reading to kids and doing activities connected with books (we do a lot of coloring, cutting, and gluing in my library) energizes me.

LOL. Yes, I think sleeping should count. :) I'm sure the kids love doing all those activities with you. Thanks for sharing with us about Worth the Wait today, Laura.

Thanks for having me, Crystal!

Anyone else have questions for Laura?