There’s a meme going around called “Top Ten Signs that a Piece of Fiction Was Written by Me.” Here is my list:
- Someone eats Chinese food. Maybe I’m just always craving Chinese food whenever I write, but I’ve noticed that at some point in my stories someone is always eating lo mein or eggrolls.
- First person narration. I’m much more comfortable writing in first person than third. I can get into my main character’s head and her voice much better that way.
- No sex. Not that I’m against sex in YA. I have no problem with it and I know some teens are doing it and I have read several YA books by other authors that pull it off well. But I just feel really weird writing it so I stick to kissing. Because kissing can be fun too.
- Hidden pop culture references. I always try to slip something into my stories as an homage to a show, movie, or book that I like. There’s one in Something to Blog About and when the book is out, if you think you’ve caught onto it let me know! I’m curious as to whether other people will pick up on the references. These references could be a name, a place, or an object. It’s not always blatantly obvious.
- Band students pop up throughout the story. I was in the school band from sixth grade to tenth (I played flute–and still have it). In all of my stories, either one of the characters is in the school band or the main character has an encounter with a band student and their instrument. It wasn’t intentional, but I’ve noticed that it’s been true for all of my works in progress so far.
- Someone smirks a lot. I just love smirks.
- Romance. I write love stories. The books are more than just love stories–at least, I hope they are–with friendships, family bonds, and self worth being strong themes, but most definitely the books are love stories. I like to write about that first big love in a teen’s life, the first time when another person literally leaves you breathless. I like experiencing first love over and over again through my characters.
- Strong family bonds. It was important to me that the relationship between Libby and her mother in Something to Blog About be very deep and strong. I hope this comes through in the book when you read it.
- At least one of the cute boys has long, shaggy hair. I think short hair is hot too, but having grown up around a lot of long haired men I have a weakness for the boys with long hair and so I have to slip one into the story. (The Husband says I always like my celebrity crushes better in the movies and shows where they have long hair–Heath Ledger in 10 Things I Hate About You, Orlando Bloom in Lord of the Rings, Smith from Sex and the City before he cut his hair…)
- My main character is most likely short. This is true for every book EXCEPT Something to Blog About. Libby is a runner and so she’s a bit taller than my other MCs and has long legs good for running. But as a short person myself, I tend to write from a short person’s point of view. Meaning my characters all need help reaching the top shelves of the cabinets.
This is cute. I’m liking hearing all these Top 10’s.
Thanks! I like them too. It’s really fun to read what other writers use a lot of in their stories! 🙂
I really enjoy reading these — and I can’t wait for your book 🙂
Thank you! 🙂
Oh, that is a good list! I have a penchant for mother-daughter themes, a lot of pop culture references (and really lame ones at that) and “C” names.
Do you mind if I add you on Facebook? I will be Brianna Lynn – if you see my request.
I’m excited for your book to come out!! I have a stack of things to review for my blog + fun reading for class, but I will sandwich a review in definitely.
I don’t mind at all. I accepted your request last night. 😀
Thank you! I hope you enjoy STBA when you get a chance to read it!
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