I have been a writer for many years, having authored several short stories, a few trunk (junk) novels, and two published coming-of-age novels, The Perfect Tree and Any Flavor Jellybeans but Black. I’ve found inspiration in everything from local lore in my home town to a particular flavor of jelly bean.
I grew up in a very small town with limited opportunities for creative individuals. Luckily, I had a puzzle-piece family who always encouraged my more creative endeavors–drawing, painting, writing, etc.
I was fortunate enough to become the first member of my family to attend college and obtain a degree. For that, I am so thankful!
My first fantasy novel, Return of the Shadow Crow, will be published in 2021.
I have been a writer for many years, having authored several short stories, a few trunk (junk) novels, and two published coming-of-age novels, The Perfect Tree and Any Flavor Jellybeans but Black. I’ve found inspiration in everything from local lore in my home town to a particular flavor of jelly bean.
I grew up in a very small town with limited opportunities for creative individuals. Luckily, I had a puzzle-piece family who always encouraged my more creative endeavors–drawing, painting, writing, etc.
I was fortunate enough to become the first member of my family to attend college and obtain a degree. For that, I am so thankful!
My first fantasy novel, Return of the Shadow Crow, will be published in 2021.
Kenneth Harris is the author of The Perfect Tree and Any Flavor Jellybeans but Black, as well as the forthcoming fantasy series Return of the Shadow Crow.
Top 5 Novels that have Inspired Me to Write
Bag of Bones
by Stephen King
I read this novel when I was around 15 years old and was truly captivated. It was the first full-length book I honestly couldn’t put down. While reading this, it dawned on me that I had to be a writer, to captivate as I had been captivated.
To Kill a Mocking Bird
by Harper Lee
In my humble opinion, easily the best American novel in existence.
Fahrenheit 451
by Ray Bradbury
My first brush with dystopian fiction, this book was unlike anything I had ever read. I even find the story of how Bradbury wrote this novel inspiring.
Invitation to the Game
by Monica Hughes
I have no idea how I would feel about this novel today, but when I read it for my 7th-grade English class I loved it!
We Have Always Lived in the Castle
by Shirley Jackson
Shirley Jackson is possibly my favorite author. I’ve never read anything by her I didn’t enjoy–she is simply unique, a quality that grows more scarce with each YA vampire novel that is published. Castle is my favorite of Jackson’s works. It begins so quirky and fun, and never lets up. Plus, the narrator is adorably unreliable.