Literacy and Our Youth Spotlight

When I started writing, I really did not know which direction my stories would take.  Horror has always been my preferred writing method, but I also enjoy Sci-Fi and Fantasy just as much.  So, when I started taking courses at the Institute of children's Literature, I did so to refine my writing skills.  Little did I know that I would actually want to write for children/young adults.  However, now that I have graduated from the course, I find that my style is not defined by one genre.

My current publications are all in the horror genre, although my first published story, "Game Over" published in 31 more nights of Halloween by Rainstorm Press, is more a a young adult horror story.  My first book, assuming a publishing company accepts it, will be a young adult fantasy adventure.  The story pays a little homage to my favorite video game series titled "Final Fantasy".  It was kind of a scary thought to try something that was not my norm.  I really was not sure where to start, but the Institute of children's Literature helped me out with it. 

I also have a fantastic support group made up of many writers from various backgrounds.  Seeing them update their works, share their progress, and just talking to some of them has made me realize that I can write in any genre that I feel comfortable with.  One of those writer friends is Charles Day.

Charles Day is the Bram Stoker nominated creator of "The Legend of the Pumpkin Thief".  His dedication and passion to his artform is truly amazing and admirable.  His newly released book, "The Hunt for the Ghoulish Bartender" is another testament to dedication to his craft.  Charles is not only an acclaimed author, but also owner of multiple publishing companies, such as Hidden Thoughts Press, Evil Jester Press, Evil Jester Comics, and more.

An admirable aspect of Charles Day's passion for writing is his involvement outside of the writing community.  Charles works diligently to reach out to the Young Adult readers to bring excitement back to what I have heard called a "lost art".  In fact, some kids that I have spoken too would rather wait for the movie than read the book.  Sadly, they don't realize that an unsold book does not lead to a movie production.  Charles' outreach to the young readers, and future authors, is helping the literary arts keep its momentum in our culture. 

We need more people like Charles day on our culture, people that believe in our children and are dedicated to educate them and mentor them towards their dreams and goals.  If you are a parent, share your story below about how you help your children to enjoy the literary world.  What books are their favorites?  Do you rely on the highly acclaimed releases, or have you found the hidden gems of the small presses?

If you, or anyone you know, is interested in finding a fantastic book for a young adult to read, click the links below to find both of Charles' young adult novels.  Don't forget to check out some of the Evil Jester Press publications for yourself, I highly recommend Inheritance by Joe McKinney (linked below).