3 questions for: Andrea Speed

Have you ever re-read a book until it fell apart? (YA reading level or above) Which book and why?
Yes. The Hitch-Hikers Guide To The Galaxy. Because it is pretty much the guiding philosophy of my life.

Have you ever gone someplace or done something exclusively as research for a story? Where/what?
Not really, not yet. But I hope to do so in the future.

What was the best piece of writing advice you've gotten?
Always read. You need to keep reading, because if you don't, the well runs dry. Reading is good for you!

Andrea's website • First Time for Everything

First Time for Everything
There’s nothing like the first time. Whether it’s a first crush, first date, first kiss, or finding tolerance and approval for the first time, for gay, lesbian, bi, and trans teens—or those still exploring and discovering their sexuality and identity—these important firsts can shape the rests of their lives. Gathering the courage to come out to their families, admit their feelings to a friend, or go to school presenting as the people they really are can be a struggle. But with the support of their allies and their own inner strength, the brave young people in these stories take the first steps toward happiness and living on their own terms. From sweet stories of newly discovered love, humorous accounts of awkward dinners and dances, to fights for acceptance and even survival, the teens in this anthology must face new challenges and rise to meet them. These are the first times they’ll never forget.