Renée Watson, an acclaimed author and Newbery Medal recipient, has released her latest young adult novel, *Everything New Again*, now available from Bloomsbury YA. In a recent conversation, Watson expressed her profound understanding of the influence she wields over young readers, emphasising the importance of connecting with this demographic through storytelling.
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Set against the backdrop of a charming Oregon town, *Everything New Again* weaves a poignant narrative about two teenagers, Bliss and Solomon, who meet during a transformative winter break. Bliss’s family owns the local funeral home, while Solomon finds himself employed at his estranged mother’s flower shop. This unique setting plays a vital role in the unfolding of their “small town love story,” a theme that is particularly dear to Watson, who hails from Portland.
The inspiration for the novel was born during a deeply personal experience that Watson encountered while grieving a friend. She recounted an emotional moment when she had to contact the same flower shop twice in quick succession: first to order flowers for a birthday and shortly afterward to send condolences. This stark juxtaposition of life and death prompted Watson to consider the emotional weight carried by individuals working in such poignant industries. It sparked the idea for *Everything New Again*, where the mixing of joy and sorrow becomes a thematic cornerstone.
In crafting her characters, Watson also aimed to honour the rich and often overlooked history of Black individuals in the Pacific Northwest. The narrative sheds light on the contributions of Black cowboys and loggers, such as the influential George Fletcher, figures whose stories seldom make it into mainstream educational narratives. Watson explained her commitment to incorporating the complexities of Black history into her writing, stating, “I want to make sure that I’m including the underbelly of Black history almost as a character.”
The development of Solomon’s character not only provided an opportunity to explore the nuances of his relationship with his absentee mother, Cathy, but also allowed Watson to examine the more challenging aspects of family dynamics. With a delicate touch, she portrayed the often complicated relationships young people have with adults, articulating that “sometimes, people just cannot love you the way they should.” Watson’s intention was not to resolve these conflicts but to acknowledge their existence and validate the feelings of her readership.
The author’s overarching goal has always been to resonate with young readers by affirming their feelings and experiences. However, Watson recognises that young adult fiction demands its own specific balance. She remarked that while it is essential for young people to advocate for change and speak up, it is equally important for them to enjoy the simplicity of being teenagers—pleasuring in crushes and forming friendships.
Watson has witnessed significant shifts in the publishing landscape since her debut in 2010 with *A Place Where Hurricanes Happen*. She noted a positive trend in the representation of young Black girls on book covers over the years, contributing to a more inclusive narrative within children’s literature. “It does my heart good to know that I’m a part of that,” she remarked, highlighting the evolution of the industry and the importance of visibility.
This year has been particularly momentous for Watson, who has received various accolades, including the esteemed John Newbery Medal for her middle-grade novel-in-verse, *All the Blues in the Sky*. She has also participated in notable events, such as reading at the opening of the Obama Presidential Center and being selected for the inaugural TIME Visionaries List, recognising her contributions to literature for children.
In *Everything New Again*, Watson hopes her readers will ponder their present as they consider their future. “The future is now,” she affirmed, stressing the significance of living in the moment rather than solely focusing on aspirations. This philosophy resonates with the central themes in her novel, encouraging both young and adult readers to embrace their current realities.
Writing *Everything New Again* was also a first for Watson in several ways, including its structure, which alternates between the perspectives of her two protagonists over a short period. She expressed excitement about exploring new formats and constraints in her writing, believing that limitations can fuel creativity.
Watson’s latest offering is not just a story but a heartfelt reflection on life, love, and the complexities of human relationships. With *Everything New Again* now on shelves, readers are invited to embark on this emotional journey that promises to resonate deeply with audiences of all ages.