- Emma Hill
- Posts
- January 2025 Author Updates
Yesterday, I went to see the musical Big Fish at a local high school.
I didn’t know a single thing about the story, so it’s safe to say I was close to crying at the end. More than being a really fun story to see on stage, though, the experience reminded me of something really important:
Storytelling is part of what it means to be human. It’s a gift, and we should cultivate it every chance we get.
I really don’t have words beyond that. In All for Mage and Melody, both Melody and Tali are involved in various pursuits that lead them to tell stories. Tali writes poems, Melody…well, reality and Melody don’t always see eye-to-eye. Both of them are theater kids producing a generalized musical of Alice in Wonderland.
At first, the theater component—and the ways the kids are creative on their own—were plot devices, meant to push them together in a tense situation and provide insight into character arcs that needed to last through four books.
Now, it’s at the heartbeat of the story. Tali’s terror of secrets revealed on-stage. Melody’s determination to own the spotlight. The friendships they foster within the confines of rehearsals, fundraisers, and performances.
The musical itself is about storytelling, so I’m sure that’s part of where this is coming from. But watching high school students craft a story on stage with skill, passion, and excitement reminded me why I love the theater element of AFMAM so much.
It’s a story about vulnerability, identity, and belonging. A story about what it takes to be a hero. And few things require more bravery from a high schooler than asking them to hit a high note on stage.
The Stats…
Sales: $10
…yeah. I definitely SPENT a lot more than I made on books this month. I’m okay with it, though, because the Kickstarter campaign is coming up, and there’s always a drought in sales before a campaign. People are waiting for the special editions :) and I can’t wait to oblige…
Kickstarter Presaves: 120
It’s so fun when it’s a nice, even number! My CRAZY goal for this campaign was 200 presaves before launch March 4.
Which is in THIRTY ONE DAYS EXCUSE ME????
I’m okay with not hitting that goal, but it would be cool to get a little closer this month! If you’re a fan of YA adventure stories, check out All for Mage and Melody. And, if you’re in a generous mood, consider sharing it with a friend!
Local friends…exciting things are happening as far as Launch Week events. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements as I’m finalizing dates with local businesses!
Writing Update
I stole this format from Addison Horner. Y’all go follow him on Instagram!
Quotes To Enjoy
“Melody would’ve beaten him to a pulp,” Aunt Elle corrected. “And we’re not using her as our moral standard. What did you do?”
“I want,” Melody said, voicing the seething fury boiling in her chest, “To break things.”
Melody didn’t care what it was. As long as she had a monster to fight.
“It doesn’t always work like that,” Tali told [redacted]. It was a lesson he’d been slow to learn, but now it was ingrained in him as solidly as how to brush his teeth. “I can do everything right, but my body still falls apart sometimes.”
Then why bother with doing everything right?
Next Up
KICKSTARTER LAUNCH!!!!
Cover Reveal!
Local Events
Thanks, as always, for your support!
