Tess Rosen Writes

Although I've spent countless hours teaching and studying the writing process for the past 6+ years, as I begin my first novel (my most extensive writing project yet) I'm gaining a newfound appreciation for the experience. I've also discovered that I'm connecting with many of my former students from afar as I find myself echoing doubts I've heard them express in my classroom: "I can't do this." "I'm not good enough." "Why does this story even matter?" "What if nobody likes it?" "Maybe I'm actually a terrible writer and no one has told me yet." "I'm never going to finish this." In my experience, the very students who are riddled with such doubts tend to produce some of the most incredible writing. I've read essays written by 14 year olds that moved me to tears, inspired me to be a better person, and made me laugh aloud in the solitude of my classroom while I read over them during the grad...

Picture this:  You hold in your hands the physical embodiment of childlike wonder. A thin, iridescent ribbon is practically fused to your sticky palm. A squishy, stretchy, shiny, crimson toy is magically floating above you as you proudly parade it throughout your neighborhood grocery store. Much to their parents' dismay, every child you pass begs and pleads for one of their own. An inanimate pet of sorts that faithfully follows closely behind. A childhood status symbol that proves to everyone that you have behaved well enough to deserve such an elusive reward reserved only for the most special moments and the most special kids. (In reality, your mom bought it upon entering the store to avoid one of your classic meltdowns at checkout, but your onlookers don't need to know that). Vibrant cereal boxes with anthropomorphic animal mascots whiz by in your periphery, but you can't be bothered to stop and beg for one. You have a balloon to show off.  After parading your prize up an...