I've loved reading literally as long as I can remember. I would bring whatever book I was devouring to lunch and prop it against my milk carton in elementary school, sit outside a classroom during passing period focused on the page in front of me in high school. I was that kid, you know, the one who would rather curl up under a tree with a good story than play kickball at recess.

Not everyone grew up loving reading the way that I do, and I firmly believe that's because they just aren't reading the right thing. I believe this because I've experienced it for myself - and witnessed it firsthand as a teacher.

Over the years I've spent a lot of time writing the beginning of dozens of books. I've written the first three pages of non-fiction and memoirs, of historical fiction and romance. Fantasy is the only genre I've ever managed to really dig into as a writer. Maybe that will change - never say never - but fantasy has had a special place in my heart since I started reading. This list captures my absolute favorite parts of the fantasy genre.

​Black Lives Matter.

I write, stand, and live in solidarity with every person of color who has been unfairly targeted by both individuals and the systemic inequities in our society.

Summer Twilight explores the idea of these labels - some artificial, some inherent - which we use to separate ourselves from one another. It's a concept I've spent a long time thinking about, but what is happening today reaffirms for me that this is not my lived existence.