Rita Williams-Garcia on rgz LIVE!

This month's readergirlz featured author is Rita Williams-Garcia, author of NO LAUGHTER HERE, a novel that takes an unflinching look at the effects of female genital mutilation, or FGM. FGM is experienced by approximately 138 million women around the world with another 2 million girls at risk each year. To learn more about female genital mutilation, view this heartbreaking video or visit FORWARD.

Don't miss the chance to chat with Rita Williams-Garcia this Thursday, February 12th at the readergirlz forum, 6 PM PST/9 PM EST. The chat will last for about an hour. Check out these fascinating tidbits about this award-winning author from the readergirlz February issue:

On the nightstand: 2 pairs of glasses, phone, Bible.

Pets: I'm grandma to Chase, my daughter's German Shepherd.

Place to write: Any outdoor bench under the sun.

Inspiration: Fried catfish, nachos with cheese. Can't write hungry.

Dream book tour: To all of the states with 75 degree weather.

Cure for writer's block: Hitting speed bag with boxing gloves

Laptop or longhand? Long-hand first. Then laptop.

Next up: JUMPED. A knows B will jump C by the end of the day. Alas, if only A cared or C knew.