Brain Snacks: Tasty Tidbits of Knowledge
Picture Perfect
The idea for Just Listen came from a yearbook photo of three smiling blonde sisters that Sarah Dessen saw. She realized later that she had made an assumption that their lives must be fabulous, and wanted to write a book about how appearances can often be deceptive.
(Source.)
Not Just a Damsel in Distress
Sarah Dessen has said before that she wants to write female characters with romantic interests who are just a part of their story—not the totality of it. Annabel Greene's relationship with Owen Armstrong certainly fits the bill.
(Source.)
Fan Girl
When asked to name her favorite YA books, Sarah namedrops some John Greene books. We love him too, Sarah; we love him too.
(Source.)
Flying Burrito
After college Sarah Dessen decided to waitress for a few years to support her writing career. Three years after she started working at the Flying Burrito, she published her first book.
(Source.)
Help for Teen Survivors
If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually abused, there are a ton of resources and support available to help you get the help you need.
(Source.)