Writing Inspirational yet Authentic YA Fiction

As a teenager, Tessa was discouraged by the lack of clean young adult fiction that reflected the realities of everyday teen life without compromising values. This gap in the market inspired her to write PURPLE MOON, an inspirational YA novel that addresses themes and struggles relevant to today’s teenagers while offering hope and truth.

Suggested interview questions:

• Why do you believe there is a gap in the marketplace for Christian teen fiction?

• How does your fiction seek to fill that gap?

• What inspired you to write stories that are both realistic and clean for today’s teens?

• Why is it important for parents to be aware of what their teens are reading?

• How do you balance writing authentic contemporary fiction while remaining clean and faith-based?

• What impact do you believe books have on teenagers, particularly in shaping their worldview and decision-making?

Pursuing Publication at a Young Age

Tessa began writing PURPLE MOON at sixteen and received a publishing contract within the same year. That early experience sparked a passion for helping teen and young adult writers develop their craft and confidently navigate the publishing industry.

Suggested interview questions:

• What led you to pursue publication at such a young age?

• Do you believe all teen writers should pursue publication, or are there alternative paths?

• What are the benefits of beginning a writing journey early in life?

• Were your family and industry mentors supportive of your decision?

• Have there been any challenges or drawbacks to starting your career so young?

Pursuing Dreams at a Young Age

Tessa chose to continue pursuing her writing dream after discovering Ecclesiastes 11:9, a passage that encouraged her to embrace her youth with purpose. Her debut novel, PURPLE MOON, was published by Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas when she was nineteen. She later founded Pursue Magazine to encourage teens to steward their time, talents, and God-given potential well.

Suggested interview questions:

• What about Ecclesiastes 11:9 inspired you to pursue your writing dream early?

• How can teens practically apply this scripture and make the most of their youth?

• What advice would you give teens who feel uncertain about their future or career path?

• “Becoming an author” is often viewed as an unrealistic dream—what would you say to teens with seemingly impossible goals?

• How can teens use their gifts and passions to glorify Christ and serve others?