Kassidy Sottilare, Boynton Beach Community High School senior and author
Age 17
She likes cheerleading and dance.
She was born in and lives in Boynton Beach.
She has been writing since the seventh grade.
The American Library of Poetry has an annual contest in which the winners not only have the chance to win prizes but also the opportunity to see their work in print. Kassidy’s poem, “Love Ain’t Real,” earned her a spot in “Acclaimed,” this year’s compilation of poetry.
In addition to creative writing, Kassidy is also a member of the Performing Arts Dance Academy and an active member of the School Advisory Council at Boynton Beach High School.
How did you get into writing?
“It was really hard and I didn’t have anybody to talk to, so I wrote it down. The paper can’t tell your secrets.”
What is you favorite aspect of writing?
“No matter what you are going through, you can always write about it; even if you can’t express it to other people, you write it down so you understand it.”
What did the contest include?
“It was a contest for school; send it in, win and get a prize. It was freestyle; send in short stories or poems, or drawings too … I didn’t win but they did ask my permission to put the poem in [Acclaimed]. Of course I said yes.”
What was your first reaction to being published?
“I think I called everybody; that’s the first thing I did.”
Do you plan to continue to write?
“Yes, I plan to write for the rest of my life.”
What’s next for you after high school?
“After I graduate, I might go off into the military or might stay home and go to college.”
