* Early love of reading: Spinelli credits his early passion for reading as a major influence. He enjoyed books from a young age, particularly those with strong characters and engaging narratives. This fostered a deep appreciation for storytelling and the power of words.
* Childhood experiences: His childhood in Pennsylvania, particularly his time in a small town where he felt like an outsider, provided rich material for his writing. He often drew inspiration from his personal experiences and the people he encountered.
* Teacher's encouragement: One of his elementary school teachers encouraged him to write and even published some of his stories in the school newspaper. This positive feedback gave him confidence in his abilities and nurtured his desire to write.
* Passion for language: Spinelli has a profound love for language and its ability to communicate emotions, ideas, and experiences. He views writing as a way to explore the complexities of human life and to connect with readers on a deeper level.
In interviews, Spinelli has often stated that he didn't set out to become a famous author, but simply wanted to write stories that resonated with people. His work focuses on themes of family, friendship, bullying, and finding your place in the world, which continue to resonate with readers of all ages.