Author Elizabeth Acevedo On Writing A Coming-Of-Age Novel - Extended Interview

The transcript features an interview with Elizabeth Acevedo discussing her novel 'The Poet X'. The conversation covers the inspiration behind the book, the challenges of writing a novel in verse, and the importance of representation in literature. Acevedo shares insights into her writing process and the impact of her cultural background on her storytelling. The discussion also addresses the controversy surrounding the book's reception in schools and the broader implications for freedom of expression in literature.

What is the main character Xiomara's background?

• Cuban American residing in Chicago

• Puerto Rican living in Miami

• Dominican American growing up in New York City

• Mexican American living in Los Angeles

What is the primary theme explored in Xiomara's story?

• The challenges of moving to a new country

• The experience of traveling the world

• The struggle of balancing work and family

• The journey of finding one's voice through poetry

Why did the author choose to write a novel in verse?

• To make the book shorter

• It was the easiest format to write

• To challenge herself with a difficult form

• To follow a popular trend in literature

What change is being observed in the literary world regarding Dominican American writers?

• A shift towards non-fiction writing

• A focus on only historical narratives

• An increase in diverse voices and stories

• A decrease in the number of published works

What is the author's view on the importance of the second book in a writer's career?

• It is less important than the debut

• It should be written in the same style as the debut

• It should receive more support and attention

• It should be completely different from the first

How did the author approach the writing process for 'The Poet X'?

• By following a strict outline

• By jumping around and writing exciting scenes first

• By writing the poems in chronological order

• By writing only when inspired

What was a significant challenge in writing a novel in verse?

• Choosing the right cover design

• Linking 350 pieces of poetry cohesively

• Finding a publisher

• Deciding on the book's title

What autobiographical element did the author include in the story?

• Moving to a new city

• Getting caught kissing on the train

• Starting a new school

• Winning a poetry contest

What was the reaction of the school district to the lawsuit against 'The Poet X'?

• They removed the book from the curriculum

• They remained neutral

• They supported the book and the school

• They banned the book

How did students respond to the controversy surrounding 'The Poet X'?

• They requested a different book to read

• They created an Instagram group to support the book

• They ignored the issue

• They protested against the book