Diane Colson, Nashville Public Library

It can't be easy having your debut novel compared to The Chocolate War, but Anthony Breznican takes it all in stride. Adult Books 4 Teens contributor Diane Colson talks to the author about his inspiration, his characters, and Elvis Costello.

Author Nathan Filer recently was given the Book Of The Year Award at the 2013 Costa Book Awards for his debut, Where the Moon Isn't (St. Martin's). A former mental health nurse, Filer used his own experiences in this examination of schizophrenia, grief, and guilt. SLJ reviewer Diane Colson caught up with him to talk about writing his process British trivia, and more.

Kiese Laymon’s debut novel, Long Division, is about 14 year-old City Coldson, an outspoken, slightly chubby, black boy who is sent to stay with his grandmother in Mississippi. Readers will love Laymon's frank, hilarious take on life in Mississippi in 2013, 1985, and 1964.