Behind the Bylines
Allison Berliner
Meet... Allison Berliner
Birthdate: March 24th
What was your favorite school subject?
It sounds sort of cheesy, but English and Biology were my favorite subjects because I love learning how small pieces can come together to form great things, be it words into poems or cells into animals.
When/how did you first know you wanted to write?
When I was in elementary school I was part of my school team for Odyssey of the Mind. We had to write out skits and make up stories. I always used to dread performing the skits, but I loved the creative way we collaborated to write out the script. After that I began to write short stories, and then in high school I wrote for my school paper.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I really enjoy finding topics in the news that I think kids will be interested in. It forces me to look at the world in a different way, and I always get to read about the funniest and most interesting things. One day I was researching the Mars Rover in the morning and a game of piglet soccer in the afternoon.
How did you develop a nose for the news?
I read the paper every morning on my way to work. Then, on the subway and in the office, I try to listen to what the people around me are talking about. I like to write on the things that get people excited, the type of stories that you just have to share with a friend. Once I figure out the topic, I begin thinking about why that story is interesting to that person, and that’s usually how I figure out my angle. From there, I just ask as many questions as I can think of.
How do you overcome writer's block?
The best way to overcome writer’s block is to talk to other people. I get all of my ideas from listening to strangers.
What do you write best with or on?
I take my notes on a pad of paper, but I do all of my writing on my laptop. The computer is small so I can write in lots of different places. My favorite place to write is in bed.
Who do you look up to?
I know that everyone always says this, but I really do look up to my mom. She is a kidney doctor who treats sick kids around the world. Her work is very sad, but she tries to remain upbeat and look at the larger picture. I admire her, and anyone else, who chooses to devote their lives to helping people, even if it means working in a field without easy solutions.
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