A number of years ago, I had the chance to meet and have lunch with one of the Tuskegee Airmen – heroic black pilots in World War II. What inspired you to write JUMP INTO THE SKY? And what inspired your earlier books ? Historical fiction, mysteries, and gothic romances by Victoria Holt. What was your favorite genre to read as a teenager? I was speechless (and grateful they didn’t make me dance, too!) The entire 6 th grade suddenly stood up at the end of my presentation and did a choreographed Elvis dance routine in honor of my Elvis book, ALL SHOOK UP. Getting flash-mobbed at Hart Middle School in Michigan last spring. What has your favorite event experience been so far? I think you discover a lot more stories that way.

No, I don’t use social media and prefer to be “unplugged” in general. What is one thing about you that would surprise your readers?ĭespite having written a book about army paratroopers who “jump into the sky,” I would never consider trying to parachute or sky-dive - I’m afraid of heights and not very brave.ĭo you use social media? If yes, how do you feel about the role social media plays in your writing life? I’ve admired Paterson’s fearlessness as a writer ever since. As a young reader, I remember being shocked that the story didn’t have the typical “happy ending” either.

I’d never read a book with an “unlikable” main character before – or one that tackled issues such as prejudice, mental disability, etc. THE GREAT GILLY HOPKINS by Katherine Paterson. What book made the strongest impression on you as a child?

Shelley answers our questions about what inspires her writing, what she likes to read and what she’s currently working on. Today we welcome Shelley Pearsall, author of Trouble Don’t Last, winner of the 2003 Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, Crooked River, All Shook Up and the just-released Jump Into the Sky.

Trouble Don't Last by Shelley Pearsall