Melissa Gorzelanczyk Melissa and sisters |  Photo credit: Mark Anderson |
What was it like growing up as one of six kids?
I am the oldest (AKA the boss). Growing up with so many siblings meant we were never alone--there was always someone to fight or play with. Quite simply, it was the best. We've remained best friends.
How does your experience of growing up in such a big family influence your writing?
My books tend to focus on love of all kinds, which is what I felt most in my large family. There were always so many people to love me and in turn, to love back.
Are any of your characters biographical sketches of people you grew up with?
I'll never tell. *wink
Have any of your siblings recognized themselves in your work?
I think there's a saying that the people you write about in your books never recognize themselves. That said, I do believe writing tends to be emotionally autobiographical by nature. We write what we know, especially emotions. My siblings aren't in my book, but the emotions we've shared together certainly show up.
How has your family supported your decision to become a full-time writer, and how has that helped you reach your goals?
My husband Shea is the number one supporter of my work and dreams. In fact, he said one of the reasons he wanted to date me was because I was a writer. He's a rare gem, he "gets it", and without him, this journey would have been much harder.
The rest of my family is supportive, too, but I think all authors would agree that there are few in our lives who truly "get it" and that's okay.
If the dedication of your book includes your siblings, please share.
From the acknowledgements: To my sisters and best friends, Crystal, Tasha, Emily and Laura, and my brother Josh, for knowing me since they were born and loving me anyway. (BTW, I’m the boss.)
Melissa Gorzelanczyk is a young adult author who believes love is everything. A dreamer for life, Melissa has been writing books since she was nine years old when she penned her first story about a beloved black horse. She is a member of the SCBWI, The Sweet Sixteens, and the Class of 2K16. She lives in Green Bay with her husband and family. Her debut novel ARROWS is being published by Random House/Delacorte Press, January 5, 2016. She is represented by agent Carrie Howland of Donadio & Olson. She can be found online at MelissaGorzelanczyk.com and on Twitter @MelissaGorzela.
I am the oldest (AKA the boss). Growing up with so many siblings meant we were never alone--there was always someone to fight or play with. Quite simply, it was the best. We've remained best friends.
How does your experience of growing up in such a big family influence your writing?
My books tend to focus on love of all kinds, which is what I felt most in my large family. There were always so many people to love me and in turn, to love back.
Are any of your characters biographical sketches of people you grew up with?
I'll never tell. *wink
Have any of your siblings recognized themselves in your work?
I think there's a saying that the people you write about in your books never recognize themselves. That said, I do believe writing tends to be emotionally autobiographical by nature. We write what we know, especially emotions. My siblings aren't in my book, but the emotions we've shared together certainly show up.
How has your family supported your decision to become a full-time writer, and how has that helped you reach your goals?
My husband Shea is the number one supporter of my work and dreams. In fact, he said one of the reasons he wanted to date me was because I was a writer. He's a rare gem, he "gets it", and without him, this journey would have been much harder.
The rest of my family is supportive, too, but I think all authors would agree that there are few in our lives who truly "get it" and that's okay.
If the dedication of your book includes your siblings, please share.
From the acknowledgements: To my sisters and best friends, Crystal, Tasha, Emily and Laura, and my brother Josh, for knowing me since they were born and loving me anyway. (BTW, I’m the boss.)
Melissa Gorzelanczyk is a young adult author who believes love is everything. A dreamer for life, Melissa has been writing books since she was nine years old when she penned her first story about a beloved black horse. She is a member of the SCBWI, The Sweet Sixteens, and the Class of 2K16. She lives in Green Bay with her husband and family. Her debut novel ARROWS is being published by Random House/Delacorte Press, January 5, 2016. She is represented by agent Carrie Howland of Donadio & Olson. She can be found online at MelissaGorzelanczyk.com and on Twitter @MelissaGorzela.
