Try Reading All-Star, Jennifer Chen is back this week! Jennifer talks about seeing readers' reactions to her debut novel and the experience of doing research at the Huntington Library for a historical fiction novel. She shares what inspired Hangry Hearts, her sophomore novel, the choice behind writing dual POVs that alternate within the chapters, the importance of queer and BIPOC voices on the page, and the important work of sensitivity readers. Jennifer and I also discuss the Cowboy Carter tour, the Beyoncé song that best fits Hangry Hearts, the joys of farmers markets, and what readers can expect from Jennifer's third novel!

Jennifer’s Links: https://linktr.ee/jchenwriter

Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

Adeline Kon is on Try Reading this week! They join me to talk all about their debut graphic novel, Just Between Us. Adeline discusses their childhood love for reading and cartoons, how art school led them into graphic design and drawing cartoons, and how a deep dive of old olympic figure skating videos inspired their debut! They talk about the drawing and writing process of this book, the importance of authentic characters on the page, how love on the ice is all the rage right now, and why this book would be performed beautifully on the ice!

Adeline’s Links: https://linktr.ee/crown_prinxe

Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading

This week on the podcast, I'm joined by the award-winning, Jonny Garza Villa! Jonny talks all about their early love for books and storytelling, what led them into writing, and the experience of publishing their debut novel. I of course ask Jonny all about Ander and Santi Were Here (a JGV favorite of many readers), and Jonny talks all about their most recent book Futbolista; what the inspiration was, the songs and musicians that inspired this story, why queer and Latine voices front and center is vital, and the varied experiences of discovering your identity. We also talk about the lore that Latine families hold, the horrors of college philosophy classes, Frank Ocean (of course), and Jonny's time as an incredible drag queen!

Jonny’s Links: https://linktr.ee/jonnygarzavilla

Try Reading Links: https://linktr.ee/tryreading