377: Writing for Tweendom: Jamie Sumner on writing difficult topics and the glory of middle grade fiction

Jess here! Jamie Sumner and I talked over the summer about her middle grade books, mainly because I’m a fan. She does not shy away from difficult topics - substance use disorder, financial insecurity, physical disability, autism, and anxiety. She’s been on the show before (here’s her first interview) but I had to have her on to talk about her new book, Maid for It, out September 5, 2023.

Jamie’s website: https://jamie-sumner.com

#AmReading

Jamie: The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff

One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Jess: The Fires of Vesuvius by Mary Beard

Pompeii by Robert Harris

If your fall could use a little witchy reading fun, you should hop online or over to your favorite bookstore and order a copy of KJ’s latest, Playing the Witch Card. Think grown-up Gilmore Girls meets Practical Magic, with a family deck of troublesome Tarot cards stalking a new generation. You’ve listened to KJ talk about getting the work done—now go check out the result, and pick up a copy for a friend, too. Guaranteed fall vibe, no pumpkin spice necessary.

Bookshop.org Amazon Barnes&Noble Still North Books and Bar

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