BBAW INTERVIEW: MEET SHALONDA!

BBAW INTERVIEW

MEET SHALONDA!

When you click on SHALONDA'S BLOG header above, you will be transported to a wonderful blog of a new friend and fellow blogger that came into my life thanks to the BBAW Interview participation.

When you get to SHALONDA'S BLOG, you will see that she describes herself as "a 26 year old who has yet to fall out of love with YA literature". Of course, to an OLD reader like me, isn't 26 still a young adult? Either way, this is a young lady who presents youthful exuberance in her blog but backs it up with wisdom beyond her years. It is it an exciting blog to visit.

I hope all of you will click on Shalonda's header above and go meet my new friend and see the wonderful work she does on her blog. I am honored to have been paired with her for our interview and I know you will enjoy reading it as much as I did so now...

MEET SHALONDA!

1. When and why did you start your blog?

I originally started blogging in 2006 for a college course. Shortly after the class had ended, my blog sat untouched for two years. In October 2008, I revamped my blog and decided to use it as an avenue to talk about my favorite hobby. Before writing my first post, I discovered a number of amazing YA book bloggers who quickly welcomed me to the blogging community. And now, 11 months later, I am still enjoying the opportunity to share my love of reading!

2. Of all the books you've reviewed, which has been your favorite?

That's so hard because I've only reviewed a couple of books I did not like. And since writing those, I have tried to only post positive reviews and keep my negative thoughts to myself.

If I had to choose one book that stands out, I would go with LIVING DEAD GIRL by Elizabeth Scott. That novel is the reason I wanted to blog about books. It is short, but extremely powerful. While it is very hard to read, it is beautifully written and shares an important message. It's nothing short of amazing.

3. What is your favorite part about blogging?

The people! Through blogging I've made a close group of friends in the Atlanta area, as well as a number of wonderful friends all around the world. It is so thrilling to be able to connect with people who share a love of words.

4. What advice would you give to people wanting to start a blog?

Enjoy blogging! At times blogging about books can become overwhelming when juggling school, a job, or both. It is important to remember that blogging should be fun. That means you can't feel guilty if you don't get a review posted right away or if you are unable to post every day or every week for that matter. Blog at your own pace and only participate in things that you are comfortable with.

5. Aside from blogging, what are your hobbies?

I am a TV fanatic. I watch way too many shows and my DVR is always full! In addition, I like to sing, dance (usually when no one is looking) and go shopping! I am a girly girl, so I generally like anything indoors that is not too messy.

6. Where do you envision your blog one year from now?

In a year, I hope to have more free time for blogging. Between my job and researching weddings, I stay pretty busy. So next year, I hope to be able to blog on a more consistent basis. My blog will probably still be made up of reviews, interviews, and memes, but I also hope to participate in a challenge and come up with a creative new feature.

In addition I hope to discover some new blogs outside of the YA community. I feel so fortunate to have been paired up with you for Book Blogger Appreciation Week because I have found a wonderful new blog in Bookin' with "Bingo" and made a new pal!

Thanks so much for having me!

AND THE PLEASURE WAS ALL MINE!
THANK YOU, SHALONDA!