Meet the Author: Antoinette H. Jones

I enjoyed chatting with author Antoinette H. Jones about her debut middle grade book, The Independents, about a girl adjusting to a move in the 1980s. Antoinette and I discussed her inspiration for this story, the power of friendship and connection, and what she’s loved about writing and publishing this book. Enjoy!

Hi Antoinette, welcome to Reading Middle Grade, and congratulations on your debut middle grade book, The Independents. Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your book?

Certainly! My name is Antoinette H. Jones, and I’m thrilled to be discussing my debut middle-grade book, The Independents. The book follows the journey of Avery, a girl having a difficult time adjusting to her family’s move from the city to the suburbs. Adding to her struggles, Avery can’t find her personal journal. She needs help and four new friends join in her search. Together, they navigate the challenges of friendship, resilience, and transition. The book takes place in a suburban neighborhood during the late 1980s. Inspired by my own experiences growing up in the 1980s, The Independents is a heartfelt tale that celebrates the power of human connection.

What inspired you to write about a girl adjusting to changes in the 1980s?

The 1980s were an exciting time! Having grown up during this time of significant cultural and social change, I wanted to write a story that explored this period through the eyes of a young protagonist. Avery’s journey of change and self-discovery mirrors the broader themes of transition and resilience that many individuals, including myself, experienced during that era.

Friendship is a major anchor for Avery in this story as she connects with other kids. Why was it important to highlight the value of friendship in your story?

Friendship is a pillar of childhood, and I wanted to highlight its importance in shaping our experiences and identities. Through Avery’s connections with her friends, readers can see the true power of genuine friendship in overcoming challenges and finding strength in times of adversity.

You had a whole other career in education before publishing this book. Why did you decide to become an author?

Yes. While my previous career in education was fulfilling, I always had a passion for storytelling. As I approached a new chapter in my life, I felt compelled to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming an author. Writing allows me to share my experiences, insights, and imagination with readers of all ages, and “The Independents” is the culmination of that journey.

Writing can be challenging. What was your favorite thing about writing this book? Which character did you most enjoy creating?

Writing can be challenging, as it is mostly a solitary endeavor, but the highs definitely outnumber the lows. One of my favorite aspects of writing “The Independents” was the opportunity to immerse myself in the world of the characters and experience a little nostalgia while bringing their stories to life. Each character in the book has a unique voice and journey. I can’t choose one character’s creation over another. The Independents’ resilience, humor, and growth are too intertwined throughout the story for me to choose just one.

Which books did you love to read when you were Avery’s age?

When I was Avery’s age, I gravitated towards books that featured girls who thought differently and allowed people to exist outside of the boxes created for them in society. Some of my favorites included Carolyn Keene’s Nancy Drew mysteries, Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables, and Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

What do you hope readers take away from this story?

Ultimately, I hope readers of The Independents come away with a sense of compassion, inspiration, and hope. Through the journey of Avery and her friends, my goal is to convey the importance of resilience, friendship, and the power of human connection in helping to navigate life’s challenges.

What has been your favorite thing about publishing this book?

The most rewarding part of publishing The Independents has been connecting with readers and hearing how the story has resonated with them. Every time I hear someone say how relatable the characters are to them, it brings me joy. Knowing that my words have touched the hearts and minds of others is truly humbling and fulfilling.

Is there anything else you wish I’d asked you?

You asked about my writing process and inspirations – those are big. I wish we’d had time to discuss the themes of resilience and transitions that are woven throughout the book. Both topics are near and dear to my heart.

About The Independents

The Independents

By Antoinette H. Jones

Twelve-year-old Avery figures that learning to make friends, keeping big secrets, and getting homework turned in on time should be no problem – just like leaving elementary school and going to junior high is no big deal. Kids do this stuff every day. But 7th grade is a lot to deal with, and starting Kentland Junior High School is only the first thing on the list. Avery and her new friends Christopher, Skylar, Damien, and Natalie have to learn to navigate new teachers and new friends, deal with family stuff, keep big secrets, and find a missing journal – and that’s all before Thanksgiving!

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