A: That’s the age when I fell in love with reading, and it’s so fun to feel like I’m returning to the magic of that time. There’s just something about writing for that age -- I feel like you can be riskier and combine more elements and genres into one.

Q: Which character(s) do you relate to the most from The Maze Runner trilogy?

A: Thomas, for sure. Except that he’s a lot braver, kind of the “me” I wish I was. But he’s the main character, and as an author you can’t help but pour a lot of yourself into the head of the main point of view.

Q: Which writers or books have impacted your work or influenced your life, and why?

A: Stephen King, because he’s the best writer I’ve ever read; Dean Koontz, because I love his style and pace; and the book Ender’s Game, because it made me realize how cool a book can be. It’s my favorite read of all time.

Q: What authors do you enjoy reading now?

A: Stephen King for sure. He’s the automatic. And then there are too many others who are tied for second place!

Q: If you weren’t writing for young adults, what other jobs could you see yourself doing now?

A: Oh, please don’t torture me like that. I’m extra sensitive to this because I worked in accounting for eight years before I was finally able to go full time as an author. And I’d rather saw off my own legs than go back to it! Okay, real answer… actually, I love movies. Love love love movies. So I could see myself as a screenwriter or critic, maybe even a director.

Q: If you were to give a fledgling writer some advice, what would it be?

A: 1. Practice. Write every day and watch yourself get better. 2. Attend as many writer’s conferences as possible. They help your craft and allow you to network.

Interview Date: April 2011
Profile and questions compiled by Kim W., University City Regional Library