Read Clean YA with CJ
Episode Twenty-Three
Join CJ Milacci and Jennifer Hallmark as they dig deep in an author interview disscussing Jennifer’s newest release, Smoking Flax, and the rich themes within the story.
Episode Show Notes below
Links to Things Discussed in this Episode
In Search of Belonging: Unveiling the Themes of Identity and Acceptance with YA Author Jennifer Hallmark
Episode Show Notes:
Episode Overview:
Summary
In this episode, CJ Milacci interviews author Jennifer Hallmark about her latest young adult novel, Smoking Flax. They discuss the inspiration behind the story, the themes of belonging and racism, and the therapeutic nature of writing. Jennifer shares her writing journey and her love for gardening and spending time with her family. Listeners can find Jennifer’s books on Amazon and connect with her on her website and social media platforms.
Takeaways
- Writing can be a therapeutic way to process emotions and experiences.
- Addressing themes of belonging and racism in stories can create powerful and relatable narratives.
- Sensitivity readers can provide valuable insights and help writers accurately portray different cultures and experiences.
- Connecting with nature and spending time with loved ones can be fulfilling and inspiring.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction
01:19
Getting to Know Jennifer Hallmark
02:18
The Story of Smoking Flax
04:29
Writing as Therapy
08:52
Expressing Emotion in Writing
10:28
Similar Books and Movies
12:19
Themes in Smoking Flax
14:38
Addressing Racism in the Story
24:48
Jennifer’s Writing Journey
28:24
Hobbies and Interests
30:41
Where to Find Jennifer Hallmark
Wrapping things Up: from CJ
I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Jennifer Hallmark. Jennifer is so sweet, and it was a joy for me to chat with her about her book and the deeper themes in the story.
If you’re ready to get lost in a rich Southern world, explore deep themes, and discover some fantastic speculative twists, I think you’ll love Jennifer’s novel, Smoking Flax. I mentioned earlier in the interview that I had the privilege of endorsing this book, and I wanted to share that endorsement with you.
A rich and immersive Southern world, with relatable characters, incredible depth, and a great speculative twist, Smoking Flax brings readers on a life-changing journey. Hallmark explores poignant themes with grace and tact, weaving a tale that will stay with you long after the last page. And leave you looking for glowing lights that just may have even deeper meanings.
Note for Sensitive Readers
As you can tell from the interview, this book addresses some difficult topics, like abuse and racism, so for young or sensitive readers, it might be good to have a parent or trusted adult read the story first.
Next Time on Read Clean YA with CJ
Next time on Read Clean YA with CJ, I’ll be talking with my good friend Karyne Norton about her debut epic fantasy novel, Blood of the Stars. We had a great conversation, and if you’re looking for an epic fantasy to dig into, you’re going to love this episode, so be sure to tune in!
Thank you so much for listening to Read Clean YA with CJ. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend so they can discover exciting, clean young adult books too.
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Jennifer Hallmark
Author
Jennifer Hallmark writes Southern fiction with a twist. Her website and newsletter focus on her books, love of the South, and favorite fiction. She creates stories with unforgettable characters—her stories are a little eerie and otherworldly but with a positive turn.
Jessie’s Hope, her first novel, was a Selah Award nominee for First Novel. Her latest novel, Smoking Flax, will be released on January 16th, 2024.
When she isn’t babysitting, gardening, or exploring the beautiful state of Alabama, you can find her at her desk penning fiction or studying the craft of writing. She also loves reading and streaming fantasy, supernatural stories, and detective fiction from the Golden Age or her favorite subject—time travel.
About Your Host
CJ Milacci is the award-winning author of The Talionis series, and she writes stories for teens and young adults with heart-pounding action and hope. As a referee, she’s always relearning the hard lesson that it’s impossible to make everyone happy, and she’s discovered that stories can be found anywhere, even on a lacrosse field. She’s passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance.
CJ Milacci is the award-winning author of The Talionis Series, and she writes stories for teens and young adults with heart-pounding action and hope. As a referee, she’s always relearning the hard lesson that it’s impossible to make everyone happy, and she’s discovered that stories can be found anywhere, even on a lacrosse field. She’s passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope in the midst of seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance.
Recruit of Talionis, Book 1
A teen with a dark past. A secret military force that kidnaps new soldiers. Can she survive as a Recruit of Talionis?
Fugitive of Talionis, Book 2
They kidnapped her. Trained her. And now they’re hunting her.
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