Jennifer E Smith is one of my all-time favorite authors, and she also writes some of my favorite contemporary fiction. I am SO EXCITED to have an interview with her here on the blog about summer reading and writing contemporary books!
-Did you participate in library summer reading programs?
Are you kidding? I was obsessed with the summer reading programs at my library when I was growing up. I remember one summer, there was a Wizard of Oz theme, and for every book you read, you got a construction paper footprint with your name and the title, and you got to stick it onto the giant yellow brick road that wound around the walls of the children's section. I can't even tell you how many footprints I added that year, but I'm sure the librarians were a bit overwhelmed by my enthusiasm!
-Did you write any of your books over the summer?
Yes, I've written many of my books over the summer (which is probably why so many of them end up being set during that particular season).
-Top 5 book recommendations for summer?
Anything by Sarah Dessen, Stephanie Perkins, Jenny Han, John Green and Gayle Forman.
-Why do you write YA contemporary and not fantasy/paranormal/adult?
I love reading across all genres, but in terms of my own writing, I've always gravitated more toward realistic fiction. I'm not exactly sure why, to be honest. Maybe it's because I read more of it when I was a kid. I think it's a bit like being left or right handed. There are a few lucky people who are able to do both, but for most of us, one or the other just comes more naturally. And for me, it's always been contemporary.
If you have not read Jennifer's books then this summer is the perfect time to pick one up!
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