Member Spotlights Member Spotlight: Christy Mihaly October 11, 2024 Share on Twitter (opens in a new tab) on Facebook (opens in a new tab) on Linkedin (opens in a new tab) via email Why is writing important to you and why do you think it’s an important medium for the world? I write for kids, mostly nonfiction. Recently I’ve been writing a lot of books about government and civics. I think it’s important because our best hope for the future — and our democracy — is raising kids who love to read and love learning and thinking for themselves. What are your tried and tested remedies to cure writer’s block? Deadlines are the best. If a publisher has not set one for me, I set it for myself. And take on more work. What is your favorite time to write? I write whenever I can. I confess I’m not a morning person, though, so no 5 a.m. writing sessions for me. What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and would like to impart to other writers? “Butt in chair.” That’s it. Credit to Jane Yolen. What excites you most about being a writer in today’s age? What excites me about writing for kids is that it’s not only a great way to stay creative, but it’s a wonderful way to remain engaged with young people — and make a difference in their lives. Some of the older people I know start getting crotchety and out of touch, and I am hoping I can avoid that fate! Christy Mihaly’s Our Congress, illustrated by Doruntina Beqiraj, is out now with Albert Whitman & Company.
