George M. Johnson and Leah Johnson’s Holiday YA Rom-Com Offers a ‘Glimpse of a Possible Future’ (Exclusive)

Renowned young adult authors, George M. Johnson and Leah Johnson, have come together to create an exciting new book just in time for the holiday season. ‘There’s Always Next Year’ is a captivating YA romantic comedy that delves into the lives of two cousins on one eventful New Year’s Eve. The talented duo recently sat down for an exclusive interview with PEOPLE to discuss their latest novel, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration and creation process.

Leah Johnson and George M. Johnson have individually made a name for themselves in the young adult literary world. Leah’s debut novel, ‘You Should See Me in a Crown,’ followed by ‘Rise to the Sun,’ along with several middle-grade works, have garnered her a loyal following. On the other hand, George has received acclaim for their nonfiction works, including the widely praised memoir ‘All Boys Aren’t Blue.’ Collaborating on ‘There’s Always Next Year’ allowed them to explore a new creative realm and bring their unique voices together in a fresh narrative.

The novel unfolds on the backdrop of New Year’s Eve, focusing on cousins Andy, a student journalist, and Domonique, a social media influencer, as they navigate personal challenges in their Indiana town. From crushes to confronting gentrification, the story offers a glimpse into a day filled with unexpected twists and turns. For Leah, the initial spark for the book came during a period of creative restlessness when she sought a collaborative project with another queer author, leading to the formation of this heartwarming tale.

Collaborating on ‘There’s Always Next Year’ posed a new challenge for the authors as they learned to merge their writing styles and voices seamlessly. George embraced the opportunity to immerse themselves in the fiction genre and draw inspiration from Leah’s storytelling finesse. The novel became a platform for the authors to weave in elements of their cultural traditions, such as New Year’s customs passed down through generations, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Touching on themes of acceptance, family, and resilience, the novel serves as a celebration of Black and LGBTQ+ voices in young adult literature. In a landscape where censorship continues to be a concern, both Leah and George are passionate about championing diverse stories and characters. Their characters, Andy and Dominique, offer a reflection of a loving and supportive family unit where queerness is just one facet of their multifaceted identities, resonating with readers seeking authentic representation.

For George, crafting the protagonists’ journey was a personal and healing experience, allowing them to reimagine moments of joy and acceptance that were absent in their own past. The novel not only entertains but also serves as a form of resistance against attempts to silence marginalized voices. Through their work, the authors aim to inspire young readers and offer a glimpse of a brighter, more inclusive future, one where love and belonging are celebrated without constraints.

As ‘There’s Always Next Year’ hits shelves, Leah and George invite readers to immerse themselves in a story that blends humor, heart, and hope. The novel encapsulates the essence of resilience and the belief that even amidst chaos, there’s always the promise of a new beginning. With their collaborative effort, the authors not only entertain but also uplift and empower readers to embrace their truths and find solace in the power of community and storytelling.

In a world where representation and diversity in literature are crucial, George M. Johnson and Leah Johnson’s partnership showcases the transformative impact of storytelling. ‘There’s Always Next Year’ stands as a testament to the enduring power of young adult fiction to inspire, educate, and ignite the imagination. As readers embark on this enchanting journey, they are reminded that with every page turned, there lies the promise of a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow.