Micaela Wendell – Young Ebook Writer Makes Waves on Amazon
Micaela Wendell was only thirteen when she wrote the first draft of her book, “The Branding.” Three years later the book recently enjoyed popularity as one of the most successful free ebooks on Amazon.
Darrell - How did you achieve publishing success at such a young age?
Micaela - Ever since I was little, I’ve loved writing. All through my grade school years, I’d write short stories and a few poems whenever I could.
In fifth grade, I was tired of writing short stories all the time. I wanted to bring my writing to the next level as well as follow my dream to become a published writer. After writing a good bit of the book, I lost my inspiration for a while, and I stopped working on it. When I went back to write more of it, I read it over and really didn’t like it at all. I deleted it, and I tried writing a book again in seventh grade. I used my plot and characters from my first novel idea to help shape what I wanted for The Branding. My seventh grade theology teacher, Mrs. Julia Schuster (author of Flowers for Elvis), encouraged me to write more of my book. I eventually finished it in the summer before eighth grade.
Darrell – How did you end up getting published?
Micaela - Since Mrs. Shuster already was a published author from BelleBooks, she suggested that I send in my query letter and first three chapters to Belle Bridge Books.
I wrote my own query letter and formatted the manuscript to the guidelines my Writer’s Market said was appropriate. After sending it off via e-mail, I anxiously awaited a reply, and when they e-mailed me back (and after I freaked out a little to myself), they asked for the rest of the manuscript. After helping me polish the book a little more, they deemed it ready for publication. It was such a crazy ride.
Darrell – Do you think you’ll pursue a career as a writer?
Micaela - My long-term goal changes from time to time. Since I’m still trying to figure out what I want to major in during college.
However, there are two things I want to achieve no matter what. One is to continue my writing career into adulthood and (hopefully) become famous or get one of my books made into a movie. The other is I want to join the Marines and either go into the reserves or become active duty personnel. I’ve wanted to become a Marine ever since I was in grade school, and I don’t want to give up on that dream anytime soon!”
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