1. What made you decide to share a story involving relationship abuse?
I like books that deal with tough issues. I think that reading can lead to thinking and talking, and thinking and talking can lead to problem-solving. Relationship abuse is a tough issue that's really happening to many teens. Teens are finding themselves in violent and dangerous relationship situations far too often, and I like the idea of creating a book that maybe might speak to some of them, and possibly help them get out of their situation.
The truth is, being a teen these days means dealing with some really tough stuff. They have to worry about things people in my generation never really had to even think about. I don't think I'm going to solve the world's problems in the pages of a novel, but sometimes I think all it takes is to hear one person, even if that person is just a fictional character, say,"I've been there. I got out. You can get out, too," to make a tough, or seemingly impossible, situation look… different.
I'm passionate about shining a light on social issues, because I truly do believe that books like Bitter End can make a difference.
2. What do you think teens should know in order to stay safe in a relationship?
First of all, love doesn't hurt. It doesn't leave bruises. It doesn't make you feel like you're worthless or stupid or ugly. If you're in a relationship where you're feeling these things, or where you're hurting, or especially where you're coming away with bruises, you are not in a loving relationship. It can all feel so very complex, especially when you're in love, but the abuse isn't going to get any better. If your partner is hurting you, emotionally or physically, you have to leave, even if you don't feel like you're strong enough to do so (you are). Also, tell someone. Don't keep secrets about what's happening to you. It may feel embarrassing or scary to tell someone what's going on, but in the end the person you tell might be able to help you stay safe.
3. Are there any resources for teens that you would recommend? (websites, phone numbers, groups, etc.)
Absolutely!
National Dating Abuse Helpline 1-866-331-9474
www.loveisrespect.org
(Recently, Break the Cycle, www.breakthecycle.org, has partnered with the National Dating Abuse Helpline)
National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE
www.thehotline.org
There is also a list of helpful resources in the back of Bitter End, as well as a Q&A with a licensed psychologist about abuse and abusive relationships — how to recognize one and how to get out of it.
4. What do you hope teenagers take from reading BITTER END ?
First and foremost, and always, the enjoyment of having been immersed in a good story. As passionately as I feel about getting teens talking about tough issues, I feel even more passionately about the enjoyment and entertainment of reading.
But I'll admit, if even one teen recognizes his or her relationship in Alex's story and makes a change… that would be pretty great, too.
Bitter End by Janenifer Brown Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (May 10th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardback: 359 pages When Alex falls for the charming new boy at school, Cole, a handsome, funny, sports star who adores her, she can't believe she's finally found her soul mate-someone who truly understands her and loves her for who she really is.
At first, Alex is blissfully happy. Sure, Cole seems a little jealous of her relationship with her best friends, Zack and Bethany, but what guy would want his girlfriend spending all of her time with another boy? But as the months pass, Alex can no longer ignore Cole's small put-downs, pinches, or increasingly violent threats. As Alex struggles to come to terms with the sweet boyfriend she fell in love with and the boyfriend whose"love" she no longer recognizes, she is forced to choose — between her"true love" and herself.
Find Janenifer Brown | Blog
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Remember to check out THIS PAGE to sign up to win a copy of this book and the other books mentioned during"Stand Up Against Abuse" week. Help spread the word about the links and phone numbers listed on that page.