Cynsations officially welcomes The Texas Sweethearts: Three Authors Who Write for Kids and Teens to the kidlitosphere! Peek: “We’re from the awesome state of Texas—Austin to be exact. (For you non-Texans, that’s the nice, shiny star in the center of the state.) We’re entertaining, engaging, and we want to make a difference.”

Meet sweethearts Jo Whittemore, P.J. Hoover, and Jessica Lee Anderson, and learn more about their books. Check out their speaking schedule, invite them to visit, and read their blog.

Today I’m honored to be their first “Featured Sweetheart!” In a short interview with P.J., I talk about my early writing/publishing mentors, being active in the writing community, and offer advice to new voices seeking their first book deal. Thanks, P.J., Jessica, and Jo!

If you’d like to nominate a “Featured Sweetheart” for their blog (someone who has made a difference in the world of youth literature), please see more information.

Check out this video celebrating The Texas Sweethearts:

Cynsational Notes

The ongoing Bridget Zinn Kicks Cancer! Auction features a related critique: The Texas Sweethearts Writing Critique: Three Authors, Three Sets of Eyes, Three Helpful Opinions: Peek: “What could be more helpful than a critique to strengthen your story? Three critiques! Multiple-published members of The Texas Sweethearts—Jo Whittemore, P.J. Hoover, and Jessica Lee Anderson—will individually critique your query letter, synopsis, and first three chapters (up to 30 pages).” Bidding ends Dec. 11.