Late Night Valentine's Day Wishes

Please know that you are loved for reading my blog. It means a lot to me to know that someone out there who isn't my mother takes the time to read my ramblings on books and writing, and I appreciate it since the whole point of putting this out here is to share it. Of course, some weeks, it's easy to think of things to share, and other weeks, it's a lot more difficult.

As I drove around Denver today, dealing with my own emotional garbage surrounding V-Day, I thought of a few of my favorite YA books that also happen to make terrific reads for Valentine's Day. So if you haven't had a chance to read these, give 'em a shot:

The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
A poetic journey (but not in verse!) of a teenager's journey from dark depression to life-affirming first love set in an idyllic fantasy place in Northern California.

Other Words for Love by Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
Ari, a sensitive and beautiful artist from a working-class family learns the hard way that money can buy swimming pools and expensive prep school education, but it doesn't buy a soul.

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Hazel Grace finds love and hope in a totally unexpected place: a support group for dying kids.

Why We Broke Up by Daniel Handler
Every break-up truly does start with a great love story, and this one doesn't disappoint. It's chockful of vintage finds, and whatnot.

I hope that you got what you needed this Valentine's Day whether it was a nice dinner, a gift, or a good cry. It's important to honor your needs.

Check back at http://www.1600words.com for the latest updates on YA reads and the writing life.