Ask the Author: Mel Torrefranca
Answered Questions (12)
Mel Torrefranca
I'm currently working on a young adult trilogy called BELLADONNA, my most ambitious writing project yet. On YouTube I document my personal experiences that shape the series, such as training in Muay Thai and meditating with monks. Learn more here: https://www.meltorrefranca.com/bellad...
Mel Torrefranca
It depends on the book. For LEAVING WISHVILLE and CAPSULE, I used whatever names popped into my head (or consulted baby name books on occasion). For the BELLADONNA trilogy that I'm currently working on, I need to be a bit more creative. Sometimes I'll spend an hour brainstorming just to come up with a name that's both unique and relatively easy to read without a pronunciation guide.
Mel Torrefranca
My main piece of advice for young writers is to stop overthinking and get started. I’ve received emails from countless teens expressing concern that they’re too young or lack enough experience to write a book. Don’t let fears like these stop you from achieving your dreams! :)
Mel Torrefranca
I started to take writing seriously at the age of ten after reading THE GIRL WHO COULD FLY by Victoria Forester. At the time I only thought of writing as a hobby, but after publishing my debut novel LEAVING WISHVILLE in 2020, I recognized how much passion I had for the publication process and decided to pursue entrepreneurship full-time.
Mel Torrefranca
I'm sorry you're dealing with that! I have carpal tunnel as well, and it's really frustrating when your body isn't cooperating with your writing plans. I recommend optimizing your computer setup to put less strain on your arms by making sure that your keyboard is lower than your elbows. If writing is too painful, you could also experiment with dictation.
Mel Torrefranca
The book deals with some sensitive topics and does include profanity.
Mel Torrefranca
As of 2021 I'm 18 :)
Mel Torrefranca
I'm pursuing entrepreneurship, so there are a variety of different things I'd like to incorporate into my career—writing is definitely one of them!
Mel Torrefranca
Right now I would say Capsule!
Mel Torrefranca
I don't watch many movies, but I really enjoy short films on YouTube! I try to keep my writing concise, so I appreciate how much emotion short films convey in such a limited amount time. Some inspiring shorts I rewatch often include Best Friend, Listen to Me, and Who are you?
Mel Torrefranca
If you think reading books by other teens will motivate you, check out It's Kind of a Funny Story. Ned Vizzini wrote the novel as a teenager and it's a New York Times best seller, so that's pretty cool :)
Mel Torrefranca
I'm currently working on my second young adult novel, Capsule, which releases on July 10, 2021.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more