“There was something about this book and the research, it really made me look at the world in a different way. I suppose it made me more aware of the darkness that a human being can hold, or the sadness, and I think that kind of broke me a small bit.” –Louise O’Neill (a conversation with '88 Cups of Tea' on writing her award-winning novel "Asking For It")

Named “the best YA fiction writer alive today” by The Guardian, we have a very special episode featuring the one-and-only Louise O’Neill. Louise is the award-winning author of two novels:  Only Ever Yours, was a multiple award winner and the movie rights were bought by Killer Content. Her second novel, Asking For It, was a number 1 bestseller in her native Ireland and was named the overall book of the year at the 2015 Irish Book Awards.

In our conversation proudly brought to you by Gotham Writers, we discuss rape culture and how Asking For It is igniting a much needed discussion to create real change.  (I know that after listening to Louise’s episode, you’ll be itching to get a copy if you haven’t already read it yet. We’re holding an amazing giveaway with contest instructions below.)

In the episode, we also uncover what the heavy research process was like for Louise’s second novel, why it’s crucial for writers to write their story the way it’s demanding to be told, authentically portraying characters and the world they live in, and a whole lot more goodies.

Our conversation filled my soul and is an absolute treat I’m thrilled to share with you. Get ready for a thoughtful and stimulating episode that will awaken you.

Xo,

Yin

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“I don’t think you could write a book like this and do that sort of research and not be effected by it, and not be changed by it.” -Louise O’Neill

BOOK GIVEAWAY CONTEST INSTRUCTIONS!

One lucky winner will receive a copy of Louise O’Neill’s “Asking For It” and a limited edition '88 Cups of Tea' mug! This is the FIRST time EVER that we're including a limited edition mug from our podcast! 

To enter the giveaway contest (limited to entries within the U.S.):

1. Listen carefully to Louise’s episode.
2. Pick one sentence and fill in the blank:
   • “No one is ever asking for it because we all deserve _____”
   • “We need to talk about rape and consent because _____”
   • “To stop victim-blaming and slut-shaming, we need to _____”
3. Tag @88cupsoftea with your entry on either Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. Be sure to include #88cupsoftea #askingforit
4. In your same post, tag a friend and encourage them to fill in the blank with their own thoughts.
5. Deadline for the contest is Wednesday, May 25th at 6pm EST (3pm PST).
6. Good luck!

  What You’ll Learn From This Episode:

• The inspiration behind “Asking For It” and the research process

• The much needed conversation about the root of rape culture and how to implement real change

• How to authentically portray characters and the world they live in

• Louise’s advice on preventing writer’s block 

• We unpack why honesty is the most important aspect of your writing
• Creativity is about making mistakes and how that benefits you and your work

 

“If you start thinking about what your parents think, or what your teachers think, or what your friends will think, or what your ex-boyfriend will think, you’re never going to be honest. And I suppose for me, honesty is the most important aspect of writing.” -Louise O’Neill

 

Learn More About Louise O’Neill

Louise O’ Neill is from West Cork in Ireland. Her debut novel, Only Ever Yours, was a multiple award winner and the movie rights were bought by Killer Content. Her second novel, Asking For It, was a number 1 bestseller in her native Ireland and was named the overall book of the year at the 2015 Irish Book Awards.

Louise’s Recommended Books & Resources:

The Cresswell Plot by Eliza Wass

Shrill by Lindy West

Say ‘Hi!’ to Louise
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