There are certain things every writer needs, no matter what type of writing they do. A comfortable writing space, pencils or pens (or computers nowadays), and things to write about are all pretty important to the writer's craft. Probably the most important thing that a writer needs is the love and support of family and friends.
I've always been blessed with great support. In high school, when I took an interest in writing, my parents greatly encouraged me. Actually back then I wanted to become a cartoonist, not an author. My father went so far as taking me to book signings of cartoonists and my mother made sure I had whatever lessons or art supplies I needed. When I was in college, I learned how hard it is to become a cartoonist and make a living at it, so I let go of that for a more practical vocation. I became a teacher.
While I let go of one dream, I never let go of telling stories and being creative. In college, I studied children's literature as part of my teacher preparation courses. When I married my husband, my mother-in-law was a professional storyteller. She saw my interest and brought me along to several storytelling workshops. When I first started trying to get published, both sets of parents encouraged me with every submission of a manuscript.
With the creation of my first children's book, more of our family and friends saw the potential. Any time I needed coaching on an illustration, I could ask one of my art teacher friends. From them, I learned some very important fundamentals. My father-in-law, a talented painter, encouraged me in my choice of media. He also looked over drawings in progress and helped me to fine-tune them.
My greatest sources of support have been my immediate family. When I am in the middle of a book, I can count on them to keep me on track. My daughter reminds me of my goals and deadlines. My son celebrates successes with me and pitches in when we need him to. When he was younger, I also used him as a live model for some of my illustrations, too. My husband does so much, from extra chores to helping me set up and clean up when I do a promotional booth. I could most definitely not write without those three people in my corner.
Having support from immediate family is definitely important. Support from friends can be just as important. I wasn't teaching when the first book came out, but I was working in a third-grade classroom. That teacher treated the new book with great fanfare and made me feel like I had just won a Newberry Award. Other friends have had me come into their classes for author experiences, which I enjoy doing.
Yes, having good writing tools is crucial to being an author. The most vital necessity to write, though, will always come in a human package. I for one am blessed and grateful to all who have shaped the author I have become. I know that surrounding myself with good people means many more great books in the future.
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