So here’s the deal – this blog is aimed at young adults and young-at-heart adults. That is – women and men aged 16-96 . If you’re in highschool I think you’re pretty safe to read this, but you might want to a-ok it with a parent. I’ll warn you – I break my reader’s heart a little. I may make you laugh, cry, want to freak-out on characters for dumb choices, or want to rip out the pages when things get really tough. Likely you already have your eyes open to the truth out there – because you are either living it now, or have lived it or watched it go down with someone you know. But just in case you are one of my younger-than-average readers – check with a parent and let them read this message:
Message to parents:
I’m not trying to corrupt young minds. I’m not trying to tell your daughter (or son) that they can escape reality by smoking drugs or falling into the arms of anyone who will eagerly take them. Most of what I write about is gritty… but it is the reality out there. You can shield them from it, or you can arm them with the knowledge that they aren’t alone in the muck of life. Or for those who are lucky enough to get through teenage years without some of the pitfalls my characters take - this might just help them understand and empathize. Empathy is a good, good thing. I promise the pages of the book will not harm, but rather arm them – with comfort, understanding, and wisdom.
And yes – I drop the F-Bomb. Many times. And the odd time Abby ends up doing things “good girls” don’t do. Trust me…they’ve already heard it, seen it or lived it. Wash my mouth out with soap if you must, but then get over it, and hand them back the book. If you’re really smart, you’ll read Life as a Teenage Mutant too and arm yourself with understanding too.
Live life being brave.
–noelle
