Today I’m interviewing Sam Taylor, the author of the Young Adult Fantasy novel, We Are the Fire, which debuted in February of 2021.
Sam grew up in Arizona's desert and now lives among Connecticut's trees. She writes fantasy novels for teenagers, and magic is always at the heart of her stories. For her writing, Sam has won the Tassy Walden Award for New Voices in Children's Literature and twice received the Young Adult Romance Writers of America Rosemary Award. She's worked as a proofreader, copywriter, and instructor of university writing courses before deciding to write her own books.
When she's not writing, Sam spends her time being mom to the world's cutest boys, whirling through dance workouts, and baking too many cakes. She does not possess fire magic, but does have one fire-colored cat.
Today, we’re talking about the power of play, how writing in a new age category might be just the escape you need, and when stepping away from the work is the kindest thing you can do for yourself.
Sam was such a joy to talk to and I was so inspired by her optimism during a year when so many of us have struggled to see the silver lining. Her emphasis on family and community and the ways a good writing schedule should serve both, reminded me that no story is worth your sanity and that loving others is what life is truly about. So pull on your favorite oversized sweatshirt, get comfy, and then enjoy my conversation with Sam Taylor.