Burn for Burn is an intriguing novel about “three very different girls who have all been hurt in different ways,” and the pair of authors share everything from how they met to their different inspirations and influences, and moments when “it’s all about boys.”
Young Adult: When did you decide to start writing?
Jenny Han: I don’t know that it’s something I ever decided, but it’s definitely something I’ve always loved! As for writing as a career, I guess I decided it the moment I applied to an MFA program– which is where I met Siobhan.
Siobhan Vivian: For me, it was after taking a creative writing class in high school. The assignments were so much fun, they didn’t even feel like work!
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YA: Tell us a little bit about your latest work.
Both: It’s about three very different girls who have all been hurt in different ways. They come together to take revenge on those that have hurt them. It’s also about love, friendship, forgiveness, and healing.
| YA: What are some of the qualities in your latest work that set it/you apart from what’s currently our there on the market? Both: We really use the fact that we are writing a series to the fullest extent. We’ve mapped out absolutely everything that happens in all three books, which means we can plant little clues and hints all along the way. Close readers will be rewarded!
YA: What attracts you to the Young Adult genre specifically? SV: I love how intense and formative the young adult experience can be. It seems like every decision, every choice you make defines the kind of person you are. |
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YA: Who would you count among your strongest influences, and why?
JH: Everyone from Ann M. Martin to Stephen King to Sofia Coppola to Judy Blume.
SV: I get very influenced by music, and I make special playlists for all my books. I like new stuff, old stuff, obscure stuff. Right now, I’m listening to a ton of female doo-wop because it’s all about boys.
YA: If you could cast the Dream Film Adaptation of your work, who would you cast?
Both: Elle Fanning or Chloe Moretz for Mary. Kaya Scodelario for Kat. Lillia is tough, unfortunately there are so few Asian American actresses. We’d have to wait and see!
YA: Do you have pursuits outside of young adult fiction?
JH: I like baking and fashion and watching foreign films.
SV: I love teaching, traveling, and riding my bike.
