Gael Lynch
Writer, Writing Coach, Teacher and Dreamer
I am so happy to announce that IVY LEIGH EVER AFTER, my debut novel, is finding its way out into the world of libraries and bookstores and hopefully, your own bookshelf! Like a huge gust of wind on a sunny day, Ivy, an eleven almost twelve-year-old, bounded into my life. With vivid details of friends and boys and adventures, I have to admit, I had a hard time holding her back! Ivy’s story is one of loss and grieving, a girl searching to define herself without a momma to hold her hand. But find herself she does, and that is all I’ll give away here! There are lots of fun characters that will make you laugh and some that might bring a tear to your eye. In the end, it should, if I’ve done my job right, warm your heart.
“I thought about the feelings I’d been trying so hard to hide inside me. Like the stars in the night sky, they didn’t show up all at once, just one at a time and then, before you knew it, the sky was full of them. What would I do with them now?”
–IVY LEIGH EVER AFTER
Gael Lynch
Writer, Writing Coach, Teacher and Dreamer
Gael Lynch is a writer, reader, eager listener, and secret keeper too. She loves people, pets, and most living things, well, except snakes and mosquitoes. She’s spent many years in the classroom, teaching students at both Sandy Hook and Reed Intermediate Schools in Newtown, CT. Following the tragedy at Sandy Hook, she doubled her efforts to follow the Newtown mantra, to “choose love,” and make that her life’s work. In the classroom, that meant listening hard to kids’ stories and helping them strengthen their ideas and express themselves well on the page.
Gael Lynch, Writer
In her work as a staff developer at Columbia University, she crisscrossed the country showcasing writing and storytelling, knowing that story—a student’s ability to tell his or her own story, is the best way for anyone, especially a teacher, to connect with kids.
Gael has been mentored by the award-winning author Patricia Reilly Giff. Through Pat’s workshop, she learned the art of careful critique, the smoothness of craft and a bit about the publishing world. For many years, Gael slipped out to her little gray cottage in early mornings to write. She attended retreats and conferences through the New England branch of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and was awarded scholarships from the Highlight’s Foundation. Currently, Gael has completed her debut novel, IVY LEIGH EVER AFTER, the story of a middle grade girl whose forever person, Momma, has died. Ivy is tossed into a chaotic world of uncertain friendships, boy crushes and bullies too. She is supported by a cast of quirky characters, solid strangers and people who help Ivy turn her mixed-up life around. Gael has completed a few manuscripts before this one, however in the end, Ivy Leigh chooses love over fear. Ivy’s story is the one that just feels so right.
How Sweet It Is: A Pair of Authors at Work
I just love working alongside another author, especially when that author is half my height! I also love that title. ‘Author.’ I’ve worked so hard for so many years
Baby, It’s Cold Outside! Suggestions for a Middle Grade Reader
It’s currently 28 degrees here in coastal North Carolina, the fire’s on, there are cookies in the oven, and I’m snug in a heavy sweater, slippers and woolen socks!
A Little Teaser: IVY LEIGH EVER AFTER
Always Waiting…will you ever really do this? It takes time and patience and a lot of guidance to bring up a great dog! We’ve been through all the stages