Uncle Walt and I are tight.
Nine years ago today (May 1), I found out SKY was going to be a Flux book. Suffice it to say (cheesy but true) my life changed that day. Writing young adult novels has been one of the best, hardest, most confusing, most stressful, and most incredible journeys in my life. I never take it for granted.
BUT. I am not so great at social media as a whole, and I suck at remembering to blog (as in, I forgot for 8-ish months). And really, aren’t there enough opinions floating around out there? You’re always welcome to find me on Facebook or Twitter, and if you have a burning question for me, feel free to email me at kirstin.cronnmills (at) gmail.com.
A sunrise earlier this spring, from a dog walk.
About me: I teach, write books, take walks with my dog, pet my kitties, and love the people in my life. I believe deeply in equity and justice for all human beings, and I do something to support that belief every day. My ultimate goal in life is to create the Fab Farm, a place for LGBTQIA+ youth to have a safe space with cuddlestock, pond fishing, and nature, and a place for grown-ups to learn more about how to be better LGBTQIA+ advocates. It will be epic. I believe in Mother Nature, animals, and the earth, along with the healing powers of each, and I believe the vibe we carry is hugely important—energy is everything.
Another t-shirt that fits my life, especially since I say “y’all” a lot.
I write books for and about people who society considers quirky outsiders, in a lot of different ways. I totally understand being a misfit (having been one my whole life), so they are not outsiders to me–they are my people. : ) Ultimately my “brand” is quirky weird kindness for quirky weird misfit kids who don’t get much of it.
My books focus on teenagers in unique situations who do unique things. Each main character has a way to use their voice in the world that’s unusual (shouting/leaving messages everywhere; music/radio show; art; photography). Each main character has an older (though sometimes not much older) adult friend or mentor. Each character is slightly weird (or circumstances make them weird), and somehow comes to value that weirdness.
Is any of this a thing? I dunno. But it’s me.
No YA author can say how much it matters to hear from readers, librarians, and teachers—it’s truly the most important thing in our careers—so the fact that you sought me out means the world to me. Thanks for taking time to visit. I’m looking forward to hearing from you.