In this conversation, Jeff Zentner chats with Jennifer  about his reader's heart and his writing process. They discuss the power of literature written for young people to shape hearts and help readers navigate the world. They also explore the themes of found family and redefining masculinity in Zentner's books. They delve into Jennifer favorite Jeff Zentner book: Rayne and Delilah's Midnight Matinee, and the importance of depicting relationships with mental illness in young adult literature. They also discuss Zentner's new book, Sunrise Nights,'a verse novel co-authored with Brittany Cavallaro, and Zentner's upcoming adult novel set in a puppet studio in 1970s New York City.

Show notes, including a chance to win 2 signed copies of Jeff's books mentioned in this episode from Bookelicious, can be found here. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection

03:02 The Power of Literature for Young People

08:26 Exploring Found Family and Redefining Masculinity

11:26 Depicting Relationships with Mental Illness in Young Adult Literature

40:46 Upcoming Adult Novel: A Journey into a Puppet Studio