Best relationships I've ever had

have been with books! and each relationship is different, but equally as exciting. sometimes we go on adventures together, or solve mysteries, but we always fall in love over and over again. this month i asked another novel to be my special valentine. it said YES!

this valentine's day happened to be amazing, but just in case it wasn't, i had a Plan B. my collection of novels is like that, always there when I need them. no matter what my mood or what kind of day I've had. i always have the perfect book to help me feel better.

the best part about these relationships are the fact that i get to choose the stories. i get to choose which story i want to delve into, i get to choose when i read, where i read, and for how long i want to read, without anyone making decisions for me. and i almost never get my heart broken.

lately, I've had one fear though about my serious relationship with my books: what to do with them if i ever have to move on. how can i keep all these stories so close to my heart? do i pack them up and take our relationship to the next level? do i leave them behind to find new lovers?

a good friend of mine sent me a few photos to help calm my fears a little:
i was crazy to consider leaving behind the best relationships that I've ever had. of course, if and when the time comes, i won't be able to part with all of the stories that have grown so close to my heart. i have never been more satisfied and more happy than when i am alone with my books. my wish for all of you is to find a special relationship like i have with these stories.


recently, i set up my first school visit in new york city to talk about SELLOUT, my young adult novel. i thought about the many ways that i could share my relationship with the kids, to pass along my love of books, without completely breaking up with several of my stories.

now as i think back, there were a few relationships that didn't end well or according to my liking. but that doesn't mean i care for those stories any less. maybe another relationship would be better for those stories, so i may think about setting a few of the lucky kids up on a blind date. there is always another book waiting for my love.

if you're looking for that one special relationship this valentine's day, i encourage you too try books! they are by far the best relationships I've ever had.