francis
asked
Michael Belanger:
I got an ARC of Jane Doe yesterday and I've already finished it. It was, by far, one of my favorite books of the year. I was wondering what inspired you to write it, and what it like writing your debut novel?
Michael Belanger
Wow, thank you so much! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
In writing THOJD, I was inspired by my own struggles with mental illness and the challenges I’ve seen family members face over the years. When I became a high school teacher, I saw the teenage experience in a new light—to be facing things like depression, the loss of a loved one, and other “grown-up” problems reminded me all over again how tough it is to simply be a teenager.
As a debut author, I’m so happy to share Jane’s story with readers like you and see that it’s having an impact. It’s been thrilling, exciting, and terrifying. Kind of like a roller coaster. Also like a roller coaster, I’ve found myself whooping uncontrollably every so often.
Thanks again for your kind words!
In writing THOJD, I was inspired by my own struggles with mental illness and the challenges I’ve seen family members face over the years. When I became a high school teacher, I saw the teenage experience in a new light—to be facing things like depression, the loss of a loved one, and other “grown-up” problems reminded me all over again how tough it is to simply be a teenager.
As a debut author, I’m so happy to share Jane’s story with readers like you and see that it’s having an impact. It’s been thrilling, exciting, and terrifying. Kind of like a roller coaster. Also like a roller coaster, I’ve found myself whooping uncontrollably every so often.
Thanks again for your kind words!
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