The following is an interview with writer Jodie Anders regarding the recent release of the book, Queer Cheer: Activities, Advice, and Affirmations for LGBTQ+ Teens, through Mango Publishing. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Anders about her shared creative process in working with co-writer Eric Rosswood to bring the project to life, how she hopes that the book’s messaging may connect with readers, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the recent release of Queer Cheer! For those who may be unfamiliar, how would you describe the book’s approach to self-affirmation for LGBTQIA+ youth?
Jodie Anders: Thank you! We are very pleased and excited with the reception for Queer Cheer. When writing this book, we decided to create a positive resource that goes beyond a book of affirmations. Our aim was to make Queer teens feel valued while assisting them in identifying affirmations that may help them feel more confident and positive, then guiding them in how to use these affirmations while providing actionable steps for positive reinforcement. To ensure the book was relative, relatable, and actionable, we researched key aspects of teen life and interviewed Queer teens across the US. The information and interviewees’ responses were organized into seven sections: Identity, Helpful Habits, Confidence, Relationships, School, Our Community, and Success & Future. Each section features an introduction, quotes from our fabulous and multi-faceted teens, facts, advice, thought-provoking questions, reflective activities, and powerful affirmations. The structure allows readers to delve into any section they choose, connect with relatable teens, and utilize self-discovery tools to find the most relevant affirmations.
BD: What can you tell us about your shared creative process in working with co-writer Eric Rosswood to bring this book to life, and how much of your own work in mentoring young women influenced the narrative?
JA: The collaboration of our combined expertise really helped make a well-rounded and fantastic book. Eric has extensive experience in activism and community involvement, while my twenty-plus years of experience mentoring teens provided valuable insight into various aspects of teen life. Our different experiences growing up as queer individuals and our interviews with queer teens also sparked many profound conversations, allowing us to explore diverse perspectives and possibilities for the book. From the outset, we discussed what would be most important to include by researching what affected teens most and, after writing, meticulously reviewed each section together to ensure that the values of diversity, inclusivity, and positivity were reflected on every page.
My experience mentoring young women had a significant impact on my approach to writing Queer Cheer. In my position, I received extensive training and hands-on experience in helping teens with self-worth, confidence, working with the community, leadership skills, and goal setting. A great deal of this work focuses on growth development and creating positive learning environments. This positive, self-affirming mindset influenced all sections. Additionally, as my teens often have unique personalities, experiences, identities, and perspectives, I knew firsthand how different each teen who picked up the book might be. Drawing from my experience in adapting to these unique personalities, we designed the book in a way that provided multiple ways to approach it, relate to the material, and learn and grow from it. Given that most of my experience lies in working with teen girls, Eric and I made certain to research and ask questions during our interviews that would include perspectives from all genders.
BD: At Fanbase Press, our #StoriesMatter initiative endeavors to highlight the impact that stories can have on audiences of various mediums. How do you feel that this book’s messaging may connect with and impact readers?
JA: Currently, there are over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills in the United States, many of which target the rights of LGBTQ+ youth in schools. There is also a widespread trend of banning LGBTQ+ stories in libraries and schools. Queer Cheer was created as a response to the negativity and frustration caused by these issues, particularly for teenagers who may wonder what youth can do or how they can stay positive in the face of it all. Queer Cheer aims to reassure them that they are valued and that their voices matter. The book includes quotes from Queer teens who have found ways to cope with difficult situations and thrive in their various environments. Relating to these stories helps teens not feel alone and provides optimistic ideas on moving forward in different areas of their lives. It also offers empowering ideas for them to fight back that are attainable for youth, whether through art, supporting the voting system, or other means. One amazing set of teens, for example, banned together and fought back against a book ban happening at their school and went on to help elect three school board candidates, starting a nationwide organization for teens in the process.
We hope Queer Cheer inspires Queer teens to find their voice, helps them believe in themselves, and provides hope for a brighter future.
BD: What makes Mango Publishing the perfect home for this story?
JA: Mango Publishing has been very supportive of adding diverse books to their collection. They actively seek out these voices and approached my co-author Eric about writing an LGBTQ+ affirmation book for teens, which evolved into Queer Cheer. We are incredibly grateful for their support and enthusiasm in acquiring and promoting diverse books and authors!
BD: Are there any upcoming projects on which you are currently working that you would like to share with our readers?
JA: I’m currently working on a young adult (YA) dystopian novel about three queer teens from warring societies. The novel will focus on the role of art in cross-cultural communication. In addition, I’m also working on a new TV pilot centered around a songwriter. It has been my dream to work as a writer on a TV show, and a few years ago, I transitioned from editing to script writing to pursue this goal.
BD: Lastly, what is the best way for our readers to find more information about Queer Cheer and your other work?
JA: Our website, where we list all upcoming events and news and provide links to buy the book at major retailers, is www.QueerCheerBook.com. Additionally, you can visit my personal website, which focuses on my TV scripts, poetry, and novels, at www.JodieAnders.com. My social media accounts are listed on both websites.
