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Author JL Simmonds on queer representation in Young Adult fiction
LGBTQ+ representation is important. I† ensures minority groups can see themselves represented in mainstream media.
For queer people, this can mean seeing a same-sex couple in a normal relationship dynamic, or a queer person of colour in a position of power, like the prime minister.
It’s positive for this representation to be extended to young adult fiction, so people growing into their sexuality and identity can see different versions of the LGBTQ+ community represented.
Growing up without visibility
Bristol-based author J L Simmonds has been writing since her teen years, and is now in her 30s.
“There was no queer representation in books when I was growing up, and I’ve always read so much. It’s so important that all types of families are represented in books for children. Young people need access to books where queer relationships are just normal,” said Simmonds.
In Simmonds’ recently published book, Run Away with Me, she depicts two main characters on a hectic journey who are discovering their sexualities at the same time.
Simmonds explained: “It’s a sapphic Thelma and Louise style road trip across America. There’s some shady characters chasing our main duo, it’s really fun.”
J L Simmonds hopes to platform queer representation in her debut novel Run Away With Me – photo: J L Simmonds
Published by Penguin on June 5, Run Away With Me is Simmonds’ debut novel.
Brooke and Jessie, the main characters, embark on an unexpected road trip across America. With hidden feelings for each other, a friendship blossoms into something more and secrets propel the story into what author Benjamin Dean has described as “a thrilling joy of unexpected twists and turns”.
Simmonds said, “One of the characters is aware of her own sexuality, but is very repressed. The other character, Brooke, has an idea of her bisexuality. However, she hasn’t been in a position to explore that side of herself. She says at one point that she doesn’t know what label fits her yet, and she’s told that’s OK”.
Simmonds said that this is an important message for young people to understand – your view on your sexuality can change throughout your life, and that’s not a bad thing. “As you have more experiences, and learn more, your understanding about yourself can develop,” said Simmonds.
The appeal of Young Adult fiction
Simmonds studied a Masters in Writing for Young People at Bath Spa University.
She said: “What I love about Young Adult fiction is that in any book store, it’s just a Young Adult section. It’s not split into romance, or thriller. If I’d said it was a romance, we’d have a different book cover and marketing topic. It’s the same if we’d said it was a thriller. In Young Adult fiction you can throw these genres together, you have more freedom.”
Simmonds continued that she wants readers to have a really good time reading the book: “A few of my friends have read early copies. One of my friends took it on a beach holiday, and that’s what I wanted. It’s perfect for summer.”
Simmonds hopes her new book will be relatable for young LGBTQ+ readers – image: Penguin
The influence of Bristol’s queer creative community
While the book is set in America, Bristol’s arts scene had an influence on Simmonds as she wrote the book.
Simmonds said that being surrounded by creativity inspired her: “My best writing gets done when I’m not at my laptop, but going out and immersing myself in the amazing communities we have in Bristol. You can draw so much from that creatively. I love that about Bristol, there’s so many characters around.”
She continued that, to find inspiration, it’s important for writers to open themselves up to as many experiences as possible.
“One of the most beautiful things about the queer community is those connections you make, and the characters and community around you.
“When you’re writing, you don’t have to try and be everything for everybody. You can just take some inspiration that appeals to you, and turn that into a piece of art. It’s important to find an idea or concept, and let that inspire you,” said Simmonds.
Run Away With Me is available for purchase now
Main image: Penguin
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