Conversation: Eleanor Henderson, author of "Ten Thousand Saints"

The transcript discusses Eleanor Henderson's debut novel, '10,000 Saints,' set in the 1980s East Village punk scene. It explores themes of youth culture, family dynamics, and the straight edge subculture. Henderson shares her inspiration, drawn from her husband's experiences, and her approach to writing a coming-of-age story. The novel addresses the challenges faced by a generation rebelling against their parents, the flower children. Henderson also talks about the writing process and the pressure to appeal to a wide audience.

What is the main theme of the novel 10,000 Saints?

In what ways does the author aim to update the classic coming-of-age story?

How does the author Eleanor Henderson describe the straight edge culture?

How does Eleanor Henderson's personal connection to the straight edge movement influence her writing?

What challenges do the teenagers in the novel face regarding their family relationships?

What influences shape the unique culture that the teenagers in the novel create?

What does Eleanor Henderson hope readers take away from 10,000 Saints?