Interview With Sophie Epstein

Hi Sophie, I'm delighted to have you here at Today's Teen Writer! Will you start by sharing how you got into blogging?

Two years ago, when more and more people around the world were starting blogs and websites, I decided it would be cool to start a blog. After all, what did I have to lose by spending a few minutes on setting one up? After some deliberation, I decided to choose something I love as my subject matter: books. When I first began posting short book reviews, and tinkering a little with the blog color and sidebars, I had no idea that two years later, Mrs. Magoo Reads would be what it is today.

When did your love of the written word begin?

I've loved to read for as long as I can remember. I remember, when I was about three years old, sitting in the car next to my mom, as she drew out letters and I identified them. As I grew older, I could read words and eventually understood sentences. The first book I ever read aloud on my own was "Amelia Bedelia" when I was four. My love of reading was cemented when I became hooked on the Harry Potter novels, and I have been a voracious reader ever since!

Who are your favorite authors? Have you written a novel?

My favorite authors include J.K. Rowling (for the Harry Potter series), Stephenie Meyer (for Twilight and The Host), Scott Westerfeld (for the Midnighters trilogy but especially the Uglies series), Mary E. Pearson (for The Adoration of Jenna Fox and The Miles Between), and Christina Meldrum (for Madapple).

I have many beginnings of novels stored in my computer, but I have not yet finished one. Hopefully that day will come soon, though!

Do you have any tips on how to write a good review that you could share with readers?

First of all, practice, practice, practice. My reviews were far from perfect when I first began-- they still aren't perfect, but they will only get better. Don't be discouraged if even you can't understand your review: after a few weeks, you will be astonished by how much your writing skills have improved!

Also, try to cover the most important aspects of the novel you are reviewing. If a book is very plot-oriented, spend more time describing the book's events. If a novel is obviously full of symbolism, obviously you will still describe the plot, but be sure to mention and review the author's use of symbolism.

Sophie Epstein is a thirteen year old girl who runs a blog that reviews young adult novels at Mrs. Magoo Reads. In addition to book reviews, Mrs. Magoo Reads also has interviews, review videos, contests, and more.