
We’re into the new year now; our resolutions are taking hold we hope. But we at TWE think there’s still time for storytellers’ reflections from some of last years’ featured writers. The talented authors we chatted with above had some noteworthy quotes from their writing experiences. Their subjects were as wide-ranging as a 19th century heroine; a changemaking librarian; women’s secret voices; resilient children in dangerous situations; as well as the power of community.
Here are quotes to ponder from writers Allison Pataki, Janet Skeslien Charles, Mimo Khair, Natalie Jenner and Sarah Gristwood as we take on the challenges of the coming months.

Allison Pataki—Finding Margaret Fuller
“Margaret really urged women to seek more for themselves, to seek more learning, to speak up for themselves…You put a wall in front of her and she wanted to find a way to break it down for herself and then for others…It’s never easy for any of my women. I choose them because they have incredibly challenging lives, and they have that power and fire that drives them to not only survive but ultimately, in each case, thrive.”
Janet Skeslien Charles—Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade
“I love libraries. Growing up in rural Montana, they were a refuge and a revelation. I still remember the kindness and encouragement of the librarians. Finding short biographies of Eleanor Roosevelt and Marie Curie, books that show young girls what women can do, was fantastic.


Mimo Khair—Facing Future
“These children possess the potential for a remarkable future, and all they require from us is the freedom to embrace their true selves. As adults, it is our noble responsibility to nurture and support children, offering them an unimpeded path to lead us towards a brighter tomorrow.”
Natalie Jenner—Every Time We Say Goodbye
“I wanted to write a book that would make us realize we are here based on the sacrifices of those that came before us. And I think that as long as we remember that, we can build a better world. I wanted to show characters who are learning to do that.”


Sarah Gristwood—Secret Voices: A Year of Women’s Diaries
“By and large, I do think that often the diary was the place, the one place where a lot of these women could voice feelings that weren’t accepted or acceptable in their own day…I did actually feel this strong sense of community…We’re very aware now of the therapeutic importance of journaling. But women were in the past as well.”
Websites for these writers we quote on Storytellers’ Reflections:
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