Teen Ink

Julie Anne Peters has been writing fiction for children and teens for more than 10 years. Her books are on recommended by the American Library Association, Rainbow Reads, and Book Sense, and her ­novel Luna was a 2004 National Book Award Finalist in Young People’s Literature. Her new novel, Rage: A Love Story, is expected out next summer.

What is the best thing about your job?

Getting that first fan letter after a new book is released. All the years of writing and revising pay off by connecting with that one reader.

What is your favorite part about ­being a published author, never mind a highly respected one in the world of GLBT youth literature?

Community. I’m part of an amazing community of creative individuals who ­respect young people and are dedicated to writing books that speak to them.

What do you wish you could accomplish that you haven’t yet?

My only goal is to get better artistically with each book.

Do you think you’ve changed lives through your writing?

Readers tell me my books bring them comfort and validation. When literature can do that for a reader, it feels wonderful to be a writer.

I think putting myself out there through my writing resonates with readers who are going through what my characters (and I) experience. Writing is truth-telling and revealing your soul. I’d like to feel I’ve broken through a person’s fear of coming out.

Do you plan to publish more books?

I have two under contract and I’m working on a third (and fourth, and fifth …).

Would you still do your job if you weren’t paid?

Writing is a notoriously low-paying job unless you’re a best-selling author, which I’m not. As long as I make enough to keep food on the table, I’m emotionally and spiritually enriched by writing for young readers.

Is there any advice you’d give to ­aspiring writers?

Read. You have to love to read to be a writer. ­Practice, ­patience, and ­perseverance are the three P’s to succeeding as an ­author. The four R’s are Read, Read, Read, Read, Read. Wait, that’s five.

How about to GLBT youth? ­Especially those in the process of coming out?

Believe that your story is worthy of ­being told. Writing is a great healer and friend when you’re feeling distraught and alone in the world. The more ­coming-out stories we share, the less alone the next person will feel.

Which of your books would you most recommend? Why?

I couldn’t choose. My books are like my children, and a parent shouldn’t play favorites. I’d like to think each of my books communicates some universal truth that readers can relate to – if not now then at some point in their lives.

Is there a way for your readers to talk to you about your books?

My e-mail address is on my website. I maintain a presence on MySpace, where there’s a fan club called the JAP Mafia. I’m also on Facebook. Occasionally I’ll do public appearances and book signings, so if you come, I’d be honored to autograph your books.