BackStory Podcast

Summary In this episode of the Backstory Podcast, host Jennifer A. Nielsen interviews author Lisa Moore-Ramee, discussing her journey as a writer, the impact of childhood reading, and the importance of diverse narratives in literature. Lisa shares her experiences with race and identity, the influence of teachers, and the challenges of being a left-handed person. The conversation also delves into t...

Are you scared? Don't worry—everyone is. Public speaking is the greatest fear in the world—yes, even more than death. Lisa has been able to overcome that fear and leverage the strength of that accomplishment into her successful career as an author. 

In this episode of the BackStory podcast, host Jennifer A. Nielsen interviews bestselling author Trisha Levenseller, known for her popular YA romantic fantasy novels. They discuss Trisha's journey as a writer, her breakthrough with 'Daughter of the Pirate King', and the emergence of the 'romantasy' genre. Trisha shares insights into her writing process, the importance of w...

Tricia hated reading. If all writers loved books growing up, then there was no way she would ever be an author. Books are just sad stories about a boy and his dog who die... right?  Jennifer Neilsen explores the backstory that changed Tricia's life and put her on the path to becoming a bestselling author. 

Summary In this episode of the Backstory Podcast, host Jennifer A. Nielsen interviews Moses Ose Utomi, a Nigerian-American author known for his young adult fantasy novels. They discuss Moses's journey as a writer, the fluidity of identity, the impact of travel on self-discovery, and the importance of empathy in storytelling. Moses shares insights from his experiences as an educator, his early...

Summary In this episode of the Backstory Podcast, host Jennifer A. Nielsen interviews bestselling author Marissa Meyer. They discuss Marissa's childhood, her journey to becoming a writer, her experiences in publishing, and the impact of success on her career. Marissa shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, her writing process, and the importance of inspiration. The conversation also...

Mary was waiting for lightning to strike in her very own way. Jennifer Nielsen explores Mary's story. 

summary In this episode of the Backstory Podcast, host Jennifer A. Nielsen interviews acclaimed author Neal Shusterman, exploring his journey from a hyperactive child with ADHD to a celebrated writer. They discuss the influence of teachers, cultural experiences, and the importance of identity and fiction in shaping one's narrative. Neal shares insights on his academic path, the challenges of...

Jennifer Nielsen dives into the backstory of an author who thought they knew who they were until everything they knew about their identity came into question. 

Summary In this episode of the Backstory Podcast, host Jennifer A. Nielsen interviews Christopher Paolini, the renowned author of the Aragon series. They discuss Paolini's upbringing, the impact of homeschooling on his writing, and the importance of family support in his journey as an author. Paolini shares insights into his creative process, including the art of naming characters, the value...

Christopher grew up digging holes and making up stories in the Northern United States. It wasn't until he was a teenager that he decided to write a "practice book" about a boy named Kevin. Jennifer Nielsen shares Christopher's backstory. 

Summary In this engaging conversation, Margaret Peterson Haddix shares her journey as a celebrated author, discussing her early influences, the challenges of getting published, and the evolution of her writing process. She reflects on her childhood experiences, the impact of growing up on a farm, and the importance of persistence in the face of rejection. Haddix emphasizes the value of writing for...

Jennifer Nielsen explores the backstory of an author who wrote 50 books over the course of 25 years. With a story yet untold, the author returned to her first book to write a sequel. 

Summary In this episode of Backstory, host Jennifer A. Nielsen interviews Jennifer Jenkins, an accomplished author and the Executive Director of Operation Literacy. They discuss Jenkins's journey through literacy challenges, the impact of supportive teachers, and the importance of validation in writing. Jenkins shares her experiences with dyslexia, her spontaneous adventures, and her passion...

As a young girl, Jennifer struggled with reading. Now, understanding her dyslexia, she is a published author and co-founder of a literacy-driven nonprofit.