Meet Adrian Fogelin, young adult novelist. Fogelin became a full-time writer in the fall of 2001, and currently lives in Tallahassee, Florida. I had the privilege of meeting Fogelin when she visited my English class in middle-school, and I’ve read three of her books (Crossing Jordan, Anna Casey’s Place in the World, and The Sorta Sisters) which I really enjoyed. For more info about Fogelin, her novels, and the community library she created, visit her website or blog! In the following interview, Fogelin talks about her own writing life and offers advice to fellow writers.

What is your greatest challenge while writing, and how do you overcome it?

The greatest challenge is dealing with the slump that hits in the middle of a book. It is easy to start a book and easy to finish one but the middle can sag. I often solve it by writing the end before the middle. That way I know where I’m going.

How do you motivate yourself to write consistently? What is your writing process like (do you outline, or create a detailed plan?)

I have written for so long now that it has become a daily habit. A habit is something you just do, so I don’t have to worry about motivation. I sit in this chair and I write. As for process I am NOT a planner. I am what I call a blurter. I get the germ of an idea and I begin to write. I follow where the idea takes me.

Are you a fan of sharing what you’ve written during the “early stages,” and asking for advice? If so, who has the privilege of reading your first drafts?

Like most writers I belong to a writing group. We meet weekly and critique each others pages.

What are the two most important traits writers can possess, and why?

They must be good observers and listeners – stories usually begin with real life. They have to love to write – the rewards can be small or nonexistent; few writers get published. They have to be disciplined. It takes a lot of work to write a book. They have to be able to handle criticism and rejection – there is lots of both in this business! They have to listen to their inner writer. Although other people’s opinions are important, the voice inside the writer is one that should ultimately make the decisions.

What do you believe is the greatest myth about succeeding in the writing/publishing world?

That you should look at the trends in what is selling and follow them. Vampires are so last week!

What do you love most about living in Tallahassee, Florida?

I love the landscape of large oaks and the combination of temperate and tropical plants. But best I love my home neighborhood which is the source of most of my stories.