Andy Holloman – Dad, Writer, Goofball

Andy asked me to discuss how readers have pushed me to become a better writer.  Who were these people and how did they do this to me?   This was the very question that I asked myself when I went about deciding to whom I would dedicate my first book “The One That Got Away”.  The answer was immediately clear to me and involved three different stages of my Writing Journey.

The first reader of note was my sixth grade teacher. Of course he was required to read and grade my writing, but he actually encouraged me to write more than was required. I happily obliged and included elaborate illustrations to accompany my stories. I will never forget the day he told me that he expected to see a published book written and illustrated by me. This comment meant the world to a shy, preteen girl. I have left the shyness and preteen years behind me, but have carried that inspiring thought with me throughout the years.

The second person that I dedicated my book to was a friend from high school. I had many friends in high school, but he was the only one that had a real passion for writing. I admired his creative spirit and his dedication to expressing himself with the written word.  He was not technically a reader, however.  When I look back I find it odd that neither one of us actually shared our writing with each other,  just the love for producing it. After high school, we went our separate ways. Twenty six years later, we met for lunch. Within that period of time he had established himself as a successful screenwriter. In those same number of years I had put writing aside for practical reasons. As a result of that lunch meeting, I caught the Writing Spark again and I intend not to lose it this time.

The third reader and I were both employed as teachers at the same school. The idea for my novel was born through random discussions with her. She also challenged me to write in first person, which I had been reluctant to do. She faithfully read every word as I finished each section. She was a constant source of inspiration and encouragement for me throughout the process of writing my novel.

Of course there are many other people that have sculpted, influenced and helped me grow as a writer and I am very grateful for their impact. I expect that I will encounter many more that will color this ongoing process. There is no end to improving this beloved skill and readers are an integral part. Traveling this path with others who adore the written word is just plain wonderful. I wish you all the best in your writing endeavors.

My novel “The One That Got Away” is available in many online bookstores including Amazon at    Kellianne Sweeney

Check out my Blog at    Kellianne’s Blog