Author Chrissy M. Dennis on her young adult novels

Three questions for Saskatchewan author Chrissy Dennis

You’ve published four novels for teens. What draws you to write for that audience?

I remember the challenges. It’s already a tumultuous time, trying to figure out who you are and how to grow up, but if you add any kind of trauma or dysfunction, it’s so difficult. I remember how hopeless it all seemed at times. I want to show that even in the darkest, most impossible situations, there is hope in Jesus Christ.

How have readers responded to those novels?

It’s been so encouraging to hear how both teens and adults have been able to resonate with my characters. I had one older gentleman tell me he didn’t think he’d be able to imagine himself in the shoes of a 17-year-old girl, but that A Sinking Star had him experiencing her life as though he were living it. That was a great encouragement! All of us have deep hurts and my novels delve into those dark places, bringing light to them through Jesus Christ. That’s something everybody can relate to.

What’s your next project?

Right now, my life is centred around raising my two foster daughters as a single mama, so there isn’t much creative energy to delve into writing full-time, but I’m working on my fifth novel (very slowly). It’s called Only Chance. Meanwhile, readers are welcome to check out my other four novels.

Chrissy M. Dennis is a novelist and foster mom, an avid reader who loves to crochet. She lives with her two daughters and two cats in Saskatchewan (www.ChrissyMDennis.com).