Cecily von Ziegesar is an American author known for her young adult novels, particularly the popular "Gossip Girl" series. Her books have captivated readers with their glamorous depictions of teenage life and juicy scandals.
I decided that, if I were to write a teen series, I'd want to set it in a place that was familiar to me - Manhattan, where I'd grown up - and I'd model the characters on myself and my friends.
I certainly didn't say while writing 'Gossip Girl,' 'Oh this is going to be big!' It was really like, 'Oh god, everyone's gong to hate these people! They're so bratty!' But I actually think what is so appealing about them is the humor in them.