Stella Tarakson

How many times have I attended writers’ conferences, watching authors share their wisdom and wishing I were among them? Don’t worry, it’s a rhetorical question. Even I don’t know the answer … suffice it to say, many. So when I discovered I’d finally be up there, on a panel, rubbing shoulders with other children and young adult’s writers, it was a dream come true.

The wonderful CYA Conference people have invited me to join the next CYA Success Story Panel. I’ll be alongside writers Kathryn Apel, Samantha Wheeler, Karen Tyrrell, Caylie Jeffery and Cassandra Webb. Here are the presenters and yes, I am one of them! I’ll let you in on a secret – I check this page from time to time, to make sure it’s real and I haven’t been hallucinating 🙂

The conference is an annual event, and this year’s date is July 5. Less than two weeks away! There’ll be workshops and masterclasses again, and the program looks great.

I’ve blogged about last year’s conference previously, when I received first prize for my story Mike the Spike. Now the book’s about to be published by New Frontier as part of their Little Rockets series. The official release isn’t until August, but my diligent publishers have managed to secure some advance copies that will be available for purchase at the conference. Maybe I’ll be even be asked to sign a few! I can feel a swoon coming on … hang on while I grab another coffee …

Right. I’m okay now. I’m delighted for this chance to thank CYA for their role in my success, and to be able to attend this year’s conference. Can’t wait, and I hope to CYA there!