Author, poet and essayist Jenny Zhang writes the kind of books that we want to read. After being published by Lena Dunham’s imprint, Zhang’s book Sour Heart became one of the most talked about books of 2017. With intense honesty, a touch of humor and a lot of heart, it’s no wonder Zhang has made such an impact with both her fiction and non-fiction publications. Serving as She Reads’ June guest editor, we are excited to bring you content from the author all month long, starting with a few questions about Jenny’s writing inspiration. Look out in the coming weeks for more exclusive articles about the books Jenny loves and a special giveaway for a copy of her award-winning book, Sour Heart.
What inspired you to write Sour Heart?
The wild girls and secret princesses and ice queens and conceited brats and shy loners and the colossal failures and big, big dreamers I’ve always read and fantasized about.
Which authors do you admire?
The ones who interrogate power and have a sense of humor about it all! I love writers who are sometimes described as “angry” or “unhinged” or “dirty.” My friends Leopoldine Core, Karan Mahajan, Alice Kim and Tony Tulathimutte are writers I admire deeply. I learn so much from them. Elena Ferrante is incredible.
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