When I was a child, reading books was really a necessary thing. I really love reading books since then. It came up to the point that I have already read all of the books in my auntie's mini library. But I wanted more, I wanted to read more. There were certain things or stories I wanted to read but I couldn't find in the library so that made me want to write. I write what I wanted to read and that started it all for me.

I wrote stories on notebooks and my classmates would often read them. They praised me and said that I have this talent and I must share them with more people. I didn't think that this writing skill that I have is something special because for me it was a just a past time hobby. It never crossed my mind that I would publish something on a writing platform.

But then, Wattpad became such a big platform among teenagers and of course I was not an exception. I also became a reader there and I always thought of writing there because I kind of envied those writers with big followers. I wanted to be like them. And that started it all for me in my writing journey in Wattpad. 

My colleagues would often talk about this certain story that they have read on Wattpad. And even if I wanted to join their conversation, I couldn't. I couldn't relate to what they were talking about so I decided to install Wattpad on my phone to check out the story in their chit chats. It was probably the best decision I have made because I have found several stories that inspired me to be the person I am today. 

The story I am most proud is definitely I Kissed a Girl. It is the story that gave me a lot of opportunities on Wattpad. I poured everything into writing this book and just by that I must and I should be proud of it. Writing is really hard and the fact that I have finished a book is something to be proud of. Besides, this book also has moral lessons I incorporated in.

IKAG represents my struggles as a writer. It also reminds me that even if there is almost one percent chance of aiming something, you should go for it. It doesn't matter if the chances are low. It doesn't matter if there is no guarantee. Just go for it!

IKAG is a book of hope and I am proud to say that I wrote this book.  

The most memorable experience is probably the Wattys 2020. I never thought of winning something big like this. Up to this date I am still on cloud nine. It is really surreal. Of course, meeting writer friends and sharing experiences with them is also memorable for me.

My stories are a mix of cliché and unconventional plots. I mean, some parts are commonly seen on various stories but it is still unpredictable how I would twist it. I love surprising readers especially in the last chapters of my stories. I usually think of outside the box when it comes to writing my stories.

Acknowledge the fact that sometimes you would have off days when it comes to writing. Every writers experience that. Don't invalidate that feeling because it is normal. Instead of being too much upset, relax and just rest for a while.

Also, do not compare your initial works with the works of those pioneer authors. They spent years crafting their works and it would be frustrating for you to compare the work of a starter to a work of a veteran. Of course, it would also be helpful for your growth but you just really need to enjoy writing. Improvement will come along the way. They spent years training their capability and you should too right at this moment!

I must say the works of Ate maxinejiji. There are various stories I can mention but I will leave it like this. 

The promotions! It is really a big help as part of the Stars to be constantly promoted on the homepage via Swimlane. It really helped my story gain thousands of reads just overnight. I also enjoy the pleasure of interacting with my co-stars. Not only that I have gain some friends but I also acquired things or lessons I needed in this industry.

Won the Wattys!!! It is an awesome experience and I would treasure it until my last breath. Wattys 2020 made me believe in myself more especially in my capabilities as a writer. It is like a validation that I have something special within me. It is an honor to be picked as one of the notable stories in Wattpad. Thank you is not enough to express my endless gratitude. 

Checkout gradylicious's stories here on Wattpad for your next favorite read!