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Sync, the latest young adult novel by Ellen Hopkins, marks her return to the genre after a five-year hiatus since her book People Kill People. This verse novel follows the journey of 17-year-old twins, Storm and Lake, who face the challenges of the foster care system after a tumultuous childhood marked by abuse and neglect. Once separated upon entering California’s foster care, the twins navigate their new realities: Storm finds a semblance of stability with a supportive single foster parent, while Lake experiences the complexities of living with a religious family and secretly exploring a romantic relationship with another foster child. Their brief reunion is tragically disrupted when both their lives spiral out of control. In a recent interview, Hopkins discussed the intricate dynamics of sibling bonds and the significant role adults can play in supporting vulnerable youth.
What inspired the story of Storm and Lake?
In 2012, I established Ventana Sierra, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safe housing and educational opportunities for at-risk youth, particularly those who have aged out of the foster care system. My experiences with these young individuals sparked a desire to delve into the complexities of foster care. While many compassionate individuals work within this system, there are also those who may not have the best interests of the children at heart. Furthermore, my involvement with youth in juvenile justice highlighted a demographic often overlooked in discussions about child welfare. I aimed to shed light on their experiences and illustrate the realities of foster care.
How does Sync expand on themes of parent-child relationships?
This novel aims to explore the ramifications of inadequate parenting or the lack of a nurturing adult figure. However, it also highlights the importance of caregivers who provide support where biological parents have failed. I wanted to honor the positive influence of individuals who step into these children’s lives, showcasing the potential for others to make a difference and fill those crucial roles.
Why did you choose unsent letters and internal reflections as the narrative style?
The bond between twins has always intrigued me, and perhaps there’s a personal element to my desire to explore this dynamic. Friends and acquaintances who are twins often share a unique connection that transcends mere physical similarities. This deep connection is often overlooked by those outside of that experience. I believe that the shared experience of being twins creates a mental and emotional bond that is intense. When this bond is fractured—as it is for Storm and Lake—it can lead to significant emotional turmoil, and I was passionate about conveying that complexity in my writing.
How have your personal experiences shaped your writing of Sync?
Having raised children across three generations, including adopting and providing guardianship for several kids, I have witnessed first-hand the myriad challenges they face. The impact of recent global events, such as the pandemic, on young people is also a consideration in this novel. While every generation encounters difficulties, the nature of those struggles can differ. Recognizing that I have both adult and teenage readers informs my writing approach, as I aspire to provide insights that resonate across different age groups regarding the experiences of children like Storm and Lake.
Ultimately, I want my readers to understand that although hardships are an inevitable part of life, there is always hope to be found. The message I aim to impart is one of resilience: difficult times are not permanent and can lead to personal growth. Appreciating joy requires an understanding of pain, and through such experiences, individuals can forge a path toward a brighter future.
Sync by Ellen Hopkins. Penguin/Paulsen, $20.99 Aug. 27, ISBN 978-0-593-46324-6
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