[Adina]

Hi Gordon,

I just discovered this and I think it’s really cool that you respond to messages from your fans, because most authors don’t take the time to do that. I just wanted to let you know about the impact that your books had on my childhood. I’m 16 now but I read my first Gordon Korman book at around 6-7 years old. Although I can’t remember which book it was, I remember that enjoyed it very much. After I looked at the “About the Author” and saw that you published your first book at 14, I thought that was really cool (and I still do). I decided that I would write a book too, and I would publish it before I turned 14 so I could beat your record. Thinking back now, I find it funny but also admirable that my 6-7 year old self had such big dreams. Now years later I have yet to publish a book but the story I’m writing now (a middle grade fantasy) is up to 20,000+ words. I’m hoping to complete it before I finish my senior year of high school and start looking for a publisher after that. One question I have about writing is, how can I avoid dry dialogue and dry writing in general? Besides for inspiring me to write I also really enjoy your books and still read them now even though I’m a bit past the target age. My favorite series by far is Masterminds because of the genius plot and great characters. Some of my other favorites are Restart, The Juvie Three, Ungifted, and Linked. Being an Orthodox Jew, Linked especially touched me. Other than that, I haven’t read a disappointing Gordon Korman book to date. Can’t wait for new releases!

 

- Adina

Hi, Adina,

Welcome to the website. I'm glad you found it.

I've always tried to be in touch with my readers. I'm not the 12-year-old author (yes, 12) any more, but it's important for me to be in touch with my audience because I've outgrown them, and even my kids have outgrown my target age. I like to think I'm still with them, at least in spirit.

Your questions: You avoid "dry dialogue" by reading it over, aloud, and asking yourself if it sounds natural. It also helps to have someone you really trust and respect to read your work. You can rely on that person's honesty -- it's vitally important to you. If it has to be punched up, you need to know.

What you said about LINKED really touched me. I wondered if the Orthodox community might be a little offended at what could be considered a somewhat strange Bar Mitzvah. But I've had 100% positive input, and your comments just added to that. I'm very pleased.

Good luck with the book. I promise to write you a fan letter some day!                                     -----Gordon Korman-----