(NAPSI)—Marissa Meyer, author of young adult fantasy series “The Lunar Chronicles,” recently mentored Riley Pearce, an aspiring author, and shared advice about writing as part of an intriguing job shadow program.
The meeting grew out of Meyer’s ongoing support for the nonprofit Treehouse, which gives youth in foster care a childhood and a future.
Meyer invited Pearce to her home, reviewed her writing, provided feedback and offered tips on becoming a professional author. A constant theme: “Finish what you start.” Pearce shared a few unfinished pieces, and Meyer said she “wanted to know what happens next!”
Another top tip: “Keep writing. Write all the time. Write things that you are excited about, that you are passionate about,” Meyer said. “Let yourself be inspired and just do it. Don’t worry about if you’re good. Don’t worry if it’s going to get published. Just enjoy it.”
Pearce learns to set and achieve goals through Graduation Success. The Treehouse program has raised the high school graduation rate dramatically for youth in foster care. Without a high school diploma, youth in care experience disproportionately high rates of poverty, homelessness, incarceration, early parenting and substance abuse.
“If I become a respected author, that means I’m making at least some money,” Pearce said. “I want that to happen.”
Meyer first learned about Treehouse through another popular program, Holiday Magic, which provides thousands of children meaningful holiday gifts each year.
Anyone can help make a difference for youth in foster care this holiday season. Visit www.treehouseforkids.org and click “Take Action” to get involved or “Donate” to give directly.