Laura Anne Bird

February’s SCBWI Member of the Month is Laura Anne Bird. She is the author of two contemporary middle grade novels, Crossing the Pressure Line and Marvelous Jackson. In addition to being a writer, Laura is the SCBWI Wisconsin Publications and Promotions Chair where she hosts the monthly Book Buzz and promotes SCBWI members’ books throughout Wisconsin. 

Laura is from Milwaukee and graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in English. In her free time, she volunteers as an ambassador for Wisconsin Book Festival, board member for Madison Public Library Foundation, and Co-chair of Lunch for Libraries. Laura lives in Madison with her husband, three big kids and a little dog. She enjoys exercise and exploring outdoors. 

When and where do you usually write?

I typically write at home, in my little office or at the kitchen table, but I never mind writing in coffee shops because I find the sound of people chatting and milk frothing to be very soothing. 

What motivated you to write a book?

For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to write for children. As a kid, my parents read to me every night and let me have full rein at our local public library, which means I fell in love with stories and storytelling at a young age. 

What is the most surprising thing you've learned in your author journey?

I still cannot believe how slow I am, and how long it takes for me to write, edit, and revise my manuscripts. It's a marathon, for sure, but I've learned that if I have enough self-discipline and fortitude, I'll one day cross the finish line.

What advice do you have for new authors?

Read. Read as much as you can, as diversely as you can. Read books in the genre you're writing. Support other authors and celebrate their stories, because being a good literary citizen is a critical part of being an author.