“I sometimes wish the writing process for me was faster, but things need to percolate in their own time.” —Mimi Lok, author of Last of Her Name

“I didn’t always feel like writing but I still made myself sit down and do it. I practiced discipline and worked towards inspiration.” —Maaza Mengiste, author of The Shadow King

We return to certain novels not only to be enchanted and inspired, to be transported out of ourselves, but also to know ourselves more deeply.

“Listen, it can’t feel magical every day, of course, but writing does have the potential to be an act of joy.” —Courtney Maum, author of Costalegre

The author of Vincent and Alice and Alice discusses the challenge of plot and character development, the pros and cons of indie publishing, and what new risks he took in his new novel.

“Though this is my sixth book, I take nothing for granted.” —Peter Orner, author of Maggie & Other Stories

Following the acclaim of his debut poetry collection, Ocean Vuong found power in imagination and freedom in embellishment and wrote a stunningly original novel: On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous. 

“So much can come of being willing to shut up and pay close attention to the world around you.” —Mona Awad, author of Bunny