TED Radio Hour Listen Again: Jason Reynolds - The Antidote To Hopelessness
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Feb 25, 2022 Jason Reynolds, award-winning author and National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, shares insights on connecting with young readers through authentic storytelling. He discusses the importance of diverse narratives, drawing from his own experiences growing up and his journey from aspiring writer to bestseller. Reynolds emphasizes resilience in storytelling, particularly for marginalized youth, and how genuine interactions can foster trust. He also highlights lessons adults can learn from young people, especially in navigating modern challenges like mental health and social media.
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Mother's Influence and Initial Hesitation
- Jason Reynolds' mother instilled a belief in his potential, saving his belongings as if documenting his future success.
- However, she initially struggled with his decision to pursue writing, fearing instability.
Early Writing and Spoken Word Experiences
- In his youth, Reynolds immersed himself in the D.C. spoken word scene, self-publishing books and performing across the East Coast.
- Despite early success, his path to becoming a writer was not straightforward.
Initial Book, Recession, and Kindle's Impact
- Reynolds and his friend self-published a book, maxed out credit cards for printing, and secured an agent and editor.
- Despite initial promise, the book's release coincided with the recession and the rise of Kindles, hindering its success.
