I have worked with many organizations that serve young people and focus, particularly, on helping them with their writing. " Girls Write Now" is definitely one of the very best. They're a well-organized, extremely creative, and widely diverse group of women interested in bringing the most up-to-date, practical, and yet wonderfully cutting-edge writing experiences to high school girls. One hundred percent of the girls
involved in the program go on to college. They don't all become writers, but they do have a much better idea of what it means to write well, and they have confidence in their ability to do so.

I have had the privilege of being a mentor at Girls Write Now for two years; thus, I've gotten to know two girls very well--helping each with her school and personal writing. I've also learned about the lives of hundreds of other girls--through readings and workshops--and met scores of writers, who have shared valuable writing tips. This year, particularly, has been rewarding for me. The high school girl I mentor grew up in Tibet, and I truly think I may have learned more from her than she has from me! Together we've opened worlds to each other.