Not going to lie this week has been pretty crazy. I turned in the analytical portion of my thesis on Wednesday, and then proceeded to go to three author panels all moderated by David Levithan. What a whirlwind. I don’t even know where to start.
Oh wait … of course I do. I went to the NYC Teen Author Festival December Reading and met Stephanie Perkins, whose books I’ve read over and over and over again. And she was the nicest and funniest person ever. I was freaking out about meeting her and near tears and she hugged me twice and even took that great picture with me. She asked me about my writing and we talked about purses (which anyone who knows me probably will recognize as my two favorite topics of conversation).
Later, Coe Booth, Daphne Grab, Libba Bray, and Eliot Shrefer came to my class. With David Levithan (who I still can’t believe has been my teacher this semester!) they discussed their books, their writing routines, thoughts on their careers, and so much more. Listening to them talk to each other and getting to ask all of them questions what like a literal manifestation to the the question what writers would you invite to your fantasy dinner party. It was amazing!
Topping the week off, I decided to reward myself yesterday by going to a reading of My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories. At the reading I saw so many amazing authors, including: Holly Black, Ally Carter, Gayle Forman, Jenny Han, David Levithan, Kelly Link, Myra McEntire, Stephanie Perkins, and Kiersten White.
Review pending on the book, but let me tell you it is fantastic! Everyone should go out and get a copy immediately!
Looking back on my week, I had to ask myself what is this life? Writing papers about E. Lockhart. Talking with friends about Harry Potter and Hunger Games until 3 in the morning. Meeting so many people who’ve created books I love.
None of this would be happening if I wasn’t in New York right now studying at the New School. Sorry for turning this blog into a brag (once again stealing the Rachel Cohn Very LeFreak joke) but I wanted to share this moment of exuberance with everyone. Hope you all are having lovely weeks as well!
Alison Doherty 
Go, Alison!!! Thanks for sharing this bounty of writerly passions this week. Very happy NYC is treating you so very well. much love.
Thank you so much Jeff!
You fill my heart with joy!
Thanks Mom. You are so sweet.
What an awesome picture with Stephanie! New York looks good on you 😉
Thank you so much Crystal! That is so sweet.