writing questions

did you always want to be a writer?

Yes. Emphatically yes. I just wasn't convinced that it was something that I could really be. I feel so lucky that this is what I get to do.

how did you get published?

The old fashioned way. I sent out queries and managed to get in contact with one of those mysterious and illusive creatures known as literary agents. And then said magical agent sold my book to an editor at a publishing house. 

Can you recommend my work to your agent and/or editor?

I'm sorry but I am not in the position to be able to do this unless I know you personally and am familiar with your work. And if that is the case, I doubt you are reading about this on my FAQ page.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Read. Read everything you can get your hands on. Think of writing as joining in on a conversation--in order to be an interesting and engaging participant in the conversation you need to know what has already been said and how you feel about it. The best writers I know are all engaged and passionate readers. And also, write! Writing is like a muscle—the more you work at it, the stronger and better you get at it.

where do you get your ideas?

I'm not quite sure, but I do know that I always get my best ideas when I'm not focused on trying to make my brain think of a story concept, but rather engaged in observing and interacting with the world around me. Most of my books start with a character who is asking something and I build the novel out from there.

Event questions/Signing questions

Do you do school visits?

Yes! I love visiting schools and talking with young readers. You can find more information about my school visit policy here or you can e-mail hello@theauthorvillage.com.

how can i send you an invite to my book festival?

Thank you for your interest in having me! Please kindly send the information about your book festival to hello@theauthorvillage.com or taylan.salvati@harpercollins.com.

can i send you a copy of your book in the mail to be signed?

I'm sorry, but I'm not able to do this. I would love to sign your book though if you attend an event that I am present at. It’s also now possible to order signed + personalized copies of my books through Anderson’s Bookshop. Please go to their online store, and make a note in the comments section about how you would like your book personalized.

biographical questions

When were you born?

April 24, 1988.

Where were you born?

Cincinnati, Ohio.

Where did you go to school?

Northwestern University and Lesley University.

What did you study?

Art history and history. Creative writing.