Hope in the Mail

Children's and young adult author Wendelin Van Draanen narrates what is as much a fireside chat as it is a guide to writing and publishing. She begins by stating that she never intended to have a career as a writer. But writer she is, and she provides listeners with information about every step in the writing process. She uses a wide variety of stories from her own experience that educate, elucidate, and offer a reality check. Even so, Van Draanen consistently manages to offer encouragement, making this audiobook a valuable tool for budding writers as well as those interested in finding out about her work. Van Draanen points out her own foibles and difficulties along with her triumphs, allowing listeners to feel as though they are listening to a friend, rather than a lecture. E.J.F. � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine