Kathryn Fitzmaurice, Keynote Speaker!

I was made aware of the WNBA/LA thanks to my middle grade writing mentor, Kathryn Fitzmaurice (ask me if I am lucky to have her as my mentor and you will hear amplified hell yeah’s).

She gave one of this weekend’s conference keynotes. It was very exciting for her to prepare this speech as she was expected to talk for 45 minutes. A one-woman show, indeed!

Kathryn is as good a choice for a keynote speaker as she is a mentor. She reminds me of Glinda the Good Witch, but wicked smart. Kind, enthusiastic, wise and filled with patience and writing news and constructive criticism, Kathryn is also extremely book-business-savvy, not to mention generous and the list goes on and on. If you’re a middle grade book writer, you must read her novels. You will learn so much and enjoy yourself while learning.

Kathryn and I share a huge love of the ocean, beaches, seashells (her blog is called ‘A Twisted Clump of Seaweed’). Since my middle grade novel centers around all of these things, she is, truly, the perfect mentor. I am very grateful.

If you are looking for a mentor, then keep watch on the SCBWI CA/North Central site for news of the next mentorship program.

And do it.

If you’re looking for an organization within which to network and attend conferences and panels, then definitely visit The Women’s National Book Association LA, or check to see if they have a chapter in your state. They just might.

I really wanted to be at Kathryn’s keynote, but I have a 6 year old with the stomach flu and a hard working husband. I am positive every second inside of every minute of the entire 45 was worth listening to.