Meg Eden Kuyatt’s forthcoming novel in verse, THE GIRL IN THE WALLS, is set to be published by Scholastic in 2025.  But back in 2020, Meg nurtured her ideas with the help of a Highlights Foundation scholarship.  With that online course, and additional support from more experiences at the Highlights Foundation, Meg will soon be able to see the book reaching kids next year.

In Meg’s Words

I’m indebted to Highlights for my forthcoming middle grade novel in verse THE GIRL IN THE WALLS (Scholastic, 2025).  The scholarship was a game-changer for me. I took an incredible course with Sarah Aronson on getting to know my novel and characters, which challenged me to think about novel writing in a new way. That experience encouraged me to continue going to Highlights, and now I try to do a personal retreat each fall when I can.

I worked on the proposal outline during one personal retreat, and revisions from my editor at another workshop with Erin Entrada Kelly and an additional retreat on campus.  The time on campus to work on it was so valuable, as well as the fellowship [with other writers]. I remember being so discouraged and wiped when trying to figure out the proposal outline and being encouraged talking to George, who checked in to see how it was going.  So grateful to everyone at Highlights for always making the experience magical, encouraging, and a success for making progress in my work!

The scholarship is not only a financial benefit, but also a way to meet other writers. Meg says:

Highlights has been—and continues to be—such a huge encouragement on my writing journey, and has put me in community with so many incredible writers.

About Meg

Meg Eden Kuyatt teaches creative writing at colleges and writing centers. She is the author of the 2021 Towson Prize for Literature winning poetry collection DROWNING IN THE FLOATING WORLD and children’s novels including a 2024 ALA Schneider Family Book Award Honor GOOD DIFFERENT, and the forthcoming THE GIRL IN THE WALLS.  www.megedenbooks.com