We all love a good story. And, if you’re like me, we all want to write a good story one day, too. Nicholas Sparks is one of those amazing authors that can create such vivid pictures and raw emotions with every turn of the page, and admit it: who wouldn’t want to write like him? Seven of his bestsellers have been adapted for the big screen – Message in a Bottle, A Walk to Remember, The Notebook, Nights in Rodanthe, Dear John, The Last Song and, most recently, The Lucky One. What I would give to have such a gift for storytelling as he does!

Shutterfly had the chance to get to know this author and got the lowdown on what it takes to write an amazing story. I know I’m going to be taking his tips to heart!