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Here's everything you want/need to know about Bella Thorne's new book, Autumn Falls...plus a free excerpt and Q&A with Bella!


It’s no secret—we’re 100%, true-blue #bellarinas. Bella Thorne has graced the cover of GL not one, not two, but three times (don’t miss her on our new December/January 2015 issue, out now!). She's a superstar dancer, awesome actress, talented singer and chic style icon.

And now, let’s add “author” to that list—because Bella's shaking up the literary scene with Autumn Falls, the first book in her new series from Random House. To celebrate, we’ve got a *free* excerpt you can download below…plus a Q&A with Bella on writing her first novel, embarrassing moments and more.


Falling for Autumn Falls…
In Bella’s debut novel, we meet Autumn Falls—a klutzy, red-headed gal (sound familiar?) new to Aventura High. Everything is great in Autumn’s life…until she manages to get on the wrong side of the school’s uber-nasty queen bee. Things couldn’t get worse…until she realizes the cutie she’s crushing on—funny, sweet, adorable Sean—is part of the cruel crew, too.

But when Autumn begins venting in her late dad’s journal, her wildest wishes start coming true. Is it just a coincidence…or is there something magical about the journal? Autumn’s going to get to the bottom of it…and find her purpose—and the journal’s—in the process.

Girl talk with Bella…
Bella’s a babe who can def do it all…but that doesn’t mean that writing her first book was easy. The new author has been very vocal about how much this passion project means to her. In an announcement about the book series back in 2013, Bella tweeted, “Don’t ever let anything or anyone tell you that you can’t follow your dreams…dyslexia to writing a YA book series…anything is possible.” We couldn’t agree more.

In the Q&A below, Bella spills it all: her inspiration for writing the book, the stigmas of dyslexia and her most embarrassing moments. That’s our bold Bella—no holding back! Read on...then tell us what you think about Bella's new book series in the comments!

Girls’ Life: Autumn Falls is your debut novel. Why did you decide to write a book?
Bella Thorne: I enjoy storytelling and this was a great way to put my energy into another art form. I also wanted to inspire people. I think that you can do almost anything you set your mind to do. I am dyslexic but I have loved boks. Writing this has been a big step for me.
Where did you come up with the story for the novel?
I have had this idea for years. I wanted something teens could relate to and that showed a part of my life without it actually being about my life or Hollywood. What some may not know about me is that although I'm an actress, the memories that are most special to me or that I hold close are the events outside my professional life in Hollywood.

As an accomplished actress, musician and now author, how do you find the time to achieve all of your goals?
No denying that I am really busy. Luckily I enjoy what I do. Usually I will take a high school dance or game over any red carpet event.

When you’re not acting, singing or writing, what are some of your favorite hobbies and activities?
I enjoy yoga, spin class, school games, watching movies, going to the beach. I like the time that I can hang out with my family and pets.

Are there any characteristics or aspects of Autumn’s life and personality that are biographical?
The majority of the book is actually based on aspects of my life.

You have been very public about your struggle with dyslexia growing up. How did your struggle shape you into the person that you are now, and what would you say to teens today dealing with learning disabilities, challenges, etc?
I am grateful that I have been able to see things positively even though I have had my struggles with dyslexia and the great losses in my life. It has helped me become a fighter. I am a survivor. I am ready for anything. I will always be OK.

What do you hope that your fans take away with them after reading Autumn Falls?
I hope that they understand that we are all going through struggles and all want acceptance. I hope they know that high school is really only a small part of your life. What you do with those experiences define the rest of your life.

The main character of your series is a bit of a klutz. Tell us about the most embarrassing thing that's ever happened to you.
I've had so many embarrassing moments. I've had public female issues. I've walked into walls in front of cast mates. You name it, I've probably done it.

If you could read any book again for the very first time, what book would you choose and why?
I really loved Ghost Girl and since it deals with high school and death, two things I am very interested in, I'd read it again with a new perspective.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?
Sitting in bed, binge-watching TV shows.

In a movie about Bella Thorne, who would play the leading role?
I really don't know but I'd expect her to be different, sassy and a fighter. I'd expect that even if the actress didn't get a role, that she call her reps and ask them to send her back in to the audition again.

If you had to sum up the book in one word, what would it be?
Relatable.

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by Melanie White | 2/1/2016
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