Turning the Page

On a recent  Sunday afternoon, the residents of Overture, Mueller were treated to an afternoon with Amelia Seibert, an 11-year-old published author.  She was invited to speak about her book, “The Mist Rising,” since her grandparents are residents of Overture. Afterwards, we spoke with Amelia about her love of reading and how she was able to get her book published.  

You are so accomplished at such a young age! How did you become interested in writing?  

When I was little, I loved drawing and putting together little picture books. I made books almost daily, so I guess starting at such a young age gave me a good foundation for writing.  

What was your inspiration for “The Mist Rising?”  

When I was around seven, I was really interested in creepy stories and scaring people. To this day, I am strongest in writing spooky fiction stories, so I decided I would have the best chance of winning the contest I entered if I wrote something along those lines.  

How did the opportunity to get “The Mist Rising” published come about?  

I entered a contest organized by a writing program called Leap For Literacy Share Your Story. I won the contest, so I got my book professionally illustrated and published! I decided I wanted to enter the contest when “Stan The Man,” the founder of the organization, came to present at my school.  

Between school, friends, and everything else, how do you find time to write?  

I am very busy, but I try not to schedule too much on weekends, so those days are usually a good time for me to sit down and write a good story. I also like to practice my writing skills at school in my free time.  

Writing a book is not always easy. What was the hardest thing for you about bringing your story to life?  

The whole process was pretty hard at times, but I think the hardest part was the editing. I edited my story after school every day for months, until I was sick of reading my own story so many times.  

What is your favorite book that you have read?  

I have read so many good books, I don’t think I could choose just one. I like books in the fantasy, mystery, and fiction genres such as “Harry Potter” and “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series. I also like other kinds of books like “Anne of Green Gables” and the “Little House” books. Really, any award-winning book like the Bluebonnet or Lone Star books are my favorite.  

Tell me about your experience at the Overture. Why did you want to present there and what was your favorite part of the day?  

My grandparents are residents at Overture, Mueller. Overture invited me to be a part of their Lifestyle Event because they believe grandkids are important. I thought it was so fun to give my book to so many grandparents who wanted to share it with their grandkids. It was really fulfilling to see their eyes light up when I told them I got my book published. I hope my book inspires children of all ages to write books of their own

If you are interested in “The Mist Rising,” it is now available for purchase on Amazon.   

Amelia Seibert is an 11-year-old book lover. (Both reading and writing them!) When she’s not writing, Amelia likes to dance, read, and draw, among many other things. She also enjoys hanging out with her grandparents at the Overturn, Mueller. She hopes you enjoy her book!