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Acknowledged for her lengthy contributions to sapphic fiction, Jennifer Dugan makes her return to young adult romance with Summer Girls. After diversifying her portfolio with adult romance and graphic novels, Dugan sets her latest story in Newport, R.I., where local resident Cassandra Adler grapples with the challenges posed by gentrification led by the Gordon family. Unexpectedly, Cassandra finds herself tasked with caring for Birdie, the influencer daughter of the Gordon patriarch, after Birdie’s livestreaming car crash leaves her grounded for the summer. As their relationship develops, the girls must confront their contrasting backgrounds to determine whether their bond is genuine or merely a fleeting summer romance. PW engaged Dugan in a discussion about the significance of class differences, the responsibilities of teens in the digital landscape, and her varying writing approaches across genres.
Much of this book, and subsequently Birdie and Cass’s romance, is set against the backdrop of wealth disparity and a gentrifying town. How did you want their relevant places in society and Birdie’s wealthy family’s influence on the town to shape their relationship?
My connections to Newport have given me insight into how gentrification and the rise of Airbnb rentals have transformed the community, often making life increasingly expensive and challenging for the locals. I aimed to delve into these complexities through characters like Cass’s father, who, although a local, is somewhat dependent on Birdie’s father for work. I wanted to explore the diverse worlds within this setting, showcasing the sometimes unintended symbiotic relationship that develops between different socio-economic groups. I enjoy narratives that feature opposites attracting—stories that dismantle stereotypes and challenge initial perceptions. As Cass and Birdie grow closer, it’s intriguing to observe how their preconceived notions evolve, compelling them to find common ground.
Social media serves as a platform to promote Cass’s family’s Affordable Housing Coalition, but it also negatively impacts Birdie’s influencer identity. What was your primary intention in depicting the girls’ relationships with social media?
I wanted to portray a nuanced view of social media. It can be a powerful ally for community initiatives, but it also carries the potential for significant pitfalls. Young people may not fully grasp that their online actions may have lasting consequences. Birdie’s public persona and the expectations that arise from it complicate her life. Social media is an enduring force, and it’s crucial for users to approach it with caution and awareness regarding its implications.
Birdie’s role as an influencer means that her entire life is created for public consumption, including aspects of her sexuality. The ethics surrounding teen influencers is a relatively new discourse—what led you to explore this topic?
As a parent of teenagers, I’ve witnessed firsthand how they navigate social media. The platform’s rapid expansion coincided with their upbringing, raising questions about privacy and consent, particularly as parents started to exploit their children’s lives for online content. This shift sparked significant debate within parenting communities regarding ethical boundaries. It became more than a matter of posting embarrassing childhood photos; as families began monetizing their online presence, the implications became much larger. I find the exploration of consent important, especially in Birdie’s case, as she grapples with the reality of her situation: while she has some agency, that consent is murky. This topic is increasingly vital as we acknowledge the impact of exploiting children in such environments.
You have experience writing across various genres, including contemporary, romance, fantasy, and horror. How does writing Summer Girls compare to your previous works?
I’m recognized for crafting characters who embark on journeys of self-discovery, whether they’re escaping from danger or engaging in a summer romance. Consistently, my stories revolve around their quest to understand their identities and how they interact with the world. Readers can expect characters who navigate awkward situations while pursuing their convictions, regardless of the choices they make. While my approach may alter slightly with darker themes, I generally immerse myself in different media and create playlists that resonate with my characters’ experiences, allowing me to truly embody their perspectives, whether in a lighthearted romance or a gripping thriller.
Summer Girls by Jennifer Dugan. Putnam, $19.99 May 13 ISBN 978-0-593-69689-7
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