Meet our editorial intern, Nikki Howard!
1. Tell us a little about yourself! What brings you to Lerner?
I recently graduated from Briar Cliff University with bachelor degrees in English and writing. I’ve been in Iowa for basically my whole life, and I’ve never once lived on a farm. Reading and writing have been loves of mine since elementary school, so I knew early on this was the kind of career I wanted. I got a taste of the publishing process in college, but I knew I’d have to move out of state to really get the full experience. As a Midwest publication, Lerner is familiar enough that I could get that experience while not having to worry so much about moving across the country. Plus, I work best in a community-type setting that can be harder to find in huge publishing houses.
2. Describe a day in the life of an editorial intern. What have you learned so far?
A day in the life of an editorial intern involves lots of questions; a lot of learning how this whole publishing house thing works, absorbing as much new info as you can, and learning from your mistakes. So far I’ve learned that nonfiction books can be tons of fun (I’ve learned so many random, cool facts about lots of subjects), and about the amazing diversity/range of Lerner publications.3. What is your favorite Lerner title you’ve read so far? What Lerner titles are you excited to read?
I read Sachiko my first week, and it definitely deserved the awards it’s gotten. So I’d say that’s my favorite so far. I’m excited to explore more of the young adult and graphic novel genre, and to learn more random facts from nonfiction titles.4. You’re rather new to the Twin Cities. What are some of your favorite (book or non-book related) activities and places here?
Minneapolis was always close enough to come up for visits in the past, so I’ve gotten a lot of the tourist stuff out of the way. Sadly, I haven’t done a lot of other activities yet, but my friend did plan a spontaneous adventure to see the ice castles last week (pictured left). I’d like to do lots more exploring and find some book, coffee, and antique shops. I’d like to see the zoo and art museum, and I can’t wait for the weather to warm up so I can walk some trails.
5. What’s your best source for finding new book recommendations?
I use a couple sites to find new books: Twitter, Goodreads, and Tumblr. I follow a lot of YA authors and bloggers, and that community is great about supporting/promoting each other.
6. What are your five favorite books?
Tough question, but I’ll try my best:
– The Darkest Minds series by Alexandra Bracken
– Anna and the French Kissby Stephanie Perkins
– Fullmetal Alchemistseries by Hiromu Arakawa
– Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
– We Are Okay by Nina LaCour (this one’s a bit premature since I’m currently reading it but man it’s good)
(P.S. Harry Potter is implied.)
Thank you, Nikki! We’re excited to have you here.