" With the ‘Hazelwood High’ trilogy, I wasn’t sure I was writing a trilogy. I would just write one book, then another, and then another, because the young adults who wrote me told me that they wanted to read more. "
- Sharon Draper

The quote conveys how Sharon Draper approached writing her "Hazelwood High" trilogy. She didn’t set out with a clear plan to create a series, but rather wrote each book based on the feedback and desires of young adult readers who expressed their eagerness for more stories from her.

This statement also highlights the significant role that audience engagement plays in shaping an author's creative process. Draper’s willingness to listen to her readers’ requests and continue writing suggests a collaborative relationship between author and reader, which can be quite empowering for both parties involved. By responding directly to her audience’s wants and needs, she demonstrates how important it is to stay connected with one’s fan base and allow their enthusiasm to fuel the continuation of creative projects.

Sharon Draper is an accomplished American author known for her impactful young adult literature that often addresses challenging social issues faced by teenagers today. Her work has earned numerous awards, including several Coretta Scott King Author Awards, recognizing her contributions to literature aimed at empowering and educating young readers.