Jessica Brody is a best-selling author known for her young adult novels such as “The Chaos of Standing Still” and “A Week of Mondays.” Her latest novel, “The Geography of Lost Things,” follows the journey of two estranged siblings as they embark on a road trip to sell a vintage car and settle their deceased father’s debts. I had the opportunity to speak with Jessica about her inspiration for the novel and her writing process.

When asked about the inspiration behind “The Geography of Lost Things,” Jessica revealed that the idea for the book came from a personal experience she had while sorting through her late grandmother’s belongings. “I found an old Polaroid camera in a box and it brought back memories of my childhood,” Jessica said. “I started thinking about the stories that objects hold and how they can connect us to our past.”

In terms of writing process, Jessica shared that she often starts with a concept or premise and lets the characters develop from there. “I like to write in a way that feels organic and unplanned,” Jessica explained. “My characters often surprise me and take the story in unexpected directions.”

When asked about her advice for aspiring writers, Jessica stressed the importance of perseverance and self-belief. “Writing is a tough industry, but you have to keep going even when it feels like you’re not getting anywhere,” Jessica said. “Believe in yourself and your work, and eventually, someone else will too.”

In addition to discussing her latest novel, Jessica also hinted at some of her future projects. “I’m currently working on a new young adult novel that explores the theme of identity and self-discovery,” Jessica shared. “I’m excited to share it with my readers once it’s ready.”

Overall, my interview with Jessica Brody was a fascinating insight into the mind of a talented author. Her passion for storytelling and dedication to her craft was evident throughout our conversation. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future and am eager to see where her writing journey takes her next.