Debut Author Liz Lawson Discusses 'The Lucky Ones'

In an interview, Lawson shared her inspiration, which stems from the changes in society following the Columbine shooting. She aimed to write for young people dealing with the reality of such violence and to convey that hope remains possible even after experiencing heartbreak.

Lawson described her writing process as emotionally challenging, particularly due to the extensive research required about school shootings and their aftermath. To cope with the heaviness of the material, she occasionally took breaks by engaging in light-hearted activities, such as watching TV shows like The Office.

Her journey to publication included writing two earlier books, the first of which she considers a practice piece that never saw publication. The second manuscript attracted some interest but was ultimately shelved too. She emphasized that each attempt was a learning experience that refined her writing skills.

Upon querying agents, Lawson received an exclusive request for revisions which proved beneficial, leading to her signing with an agent and, shortly thereafter, selling her book in just a week.

Lawson hopes readers will find catharsis in The Lucky Ones, recognizing it as a story filled with pain but also with the resilience that emerges from facing challenges. In the context of current events, she highlighted her own adjustments at home, managing her day job while promoting her book and caring for their toddler.

For readers seeking recommendations, Lawson suggests several titles including The Best Laid Plans by Cameron Lund and The Perfect Escape by Suzanne Park, both releasing on the same day as her book. She also praised Dante Medema’s upcoming novel in verse, The Truth Project, and recommended the novel You’re Next by Kylie Schachte, which she found reminiscent of early Veronica Mars.