An interview with: Jaye Jarvis, work experience student
Jaye Jarvis, a year ten student at St Johns Grammar School, outlines her keen interest in reading and writing, as well as her involvement in the work experience program at Wakefield Press.
What is the first book you ever read?
My mum spent countless hours reading to me as a kid, but the first novel I can consciously remember reading was Layla, Queen of Hearts by Glenda Millard. It's a gentle, almost nostalgic story about the ups and downs of friendship and the power of love in all of its most unexpected forms. Millard's writing style was almost definitely the catalyst for my tendency to be overly emotional.
What attracted you to doing work experience at Wakefield Press?
I've always liked to think my passion for literature and books was written in the stars, but that's probably just my romanticised logic taking over. For as long as I can remember I've wanted to be involved in the production of books in any way possible, whether that be as an editor, a designer or even an author. Doing my work experience at Wakefield Press seemed like an excellent opportunity to test my interest and nail down a specific aspect of publishing that could lead to prospective employment.
Do you think boys read differently from girls? If so, how? If not, why do you think so many people believe that?
I think that the greatest existing disparity between boys and girls when it comes to reading lies in expectation, not ability or interest. From the beginning of modern literature in the 18th century, both men and women were expected to be equally well read; a societal standard that's practically disappeared over time. When young girls read nowadays, they're considered intelligent and hardworking, while most of the time boys who are passionate about reading are seen as nerdy or weird. At least that's what it's like in high school, anyway. I'd really like to see this reputation change, as the enjoyment of books shouldn't come with any excess baggage or reason for judgment.
What’s the last book you read for fun? What was fun about it?
The last book I read for fun was My Best Friend's Exorcism by Grady Hendrix, a title that explores the challenges of friendship and demonic possession; an underlying metaphor for the difficulties faced by teenage girls. Being the ideal demographic, I really enjoyed the theme of the novel in general, and additionally found a lot of enjoyment in the 1980s setting.
What’s the last book you read and hated? what did you hate about it?
I like to think I'm a very positive, 'treat people with kindness', kind of person, but my one exception is when it comes to Lord of the Flies by William Golding. Under the curse of some vengeful higher power, I've been made to write two essays on the novel during my time at school. I suppose the genre isn't an area of interest for me at the best of times, but I also find a lot of difficulty in appreciating the writing style. It's too long-winded, and the concept in general makes me a little sick to the stomach.
How do you find out about books you want to read?
I pay a visit to my local library about once a month, scouring pretty much every section for new arrivals and books that catch my eye. Usually I end up with nine or ten titles that will occupy my time before the next visit.
Name a book or books that changed the way you think- in any way at all, large or small.
Admittedly this is more of a negative influence, but Looking for Alaska by John Green taught me not to romanticise hardcore partying or alcohol consumption during my high school experience. At the time I read the book, I was a little caught up in the world of social media and Netflix specials, which resulted in a pretty warped idea of what my teenage years would be like. As it turns out, I'm much happier knowing that teenage life is a lot less chaotic and angst-ridden than the movies make it out to be.
Based on what you see around you, do you think teenagers read more or less than they used to?
I think that although the effects of social media fascination and addiction are more prevalent than ever in today's society, there'll always be teenagers that love to read. The same way that many young adults prefer records or cd's to Spotify, book-lovers will always be present in society. Besides, kicking back with a physical book in your hand isn't the only way to indulge in the written word any more. Thousands of teenagers are blogging and reading YA on their Kindle's every day. Passion for reading among today's youth isn't dying out, it's just evolving.
Who is your favourite author and why?
It definitely depends on the day, but I'd say either Jane Austen, Derek Landy or Krystal Sutherland. Sense and Sensibility was the first classic I ever read, so Austen's style holds a special place in my sentimental heart. Derek Landy's Skullduggery Pleasant series was the first to spark my interest in the supernatural, and I take a lot of inspiration from his work. As for Krystal Sutherland, she's written two books that rank highly in my personal top 50, so I'd be stupid not to mention her. I really admire the way she writes from the perspective of teenagers being an adult herself, and her narratives are expertly crafted and super creative.
If you were banished to a desert island and could take three books with you, what would they be and why?
Pride and Prejudice, so I could have a good cry; Marilyn Manson's biography, just to keep things interesting; and How to Build and Sail Small Boats by Tony Read. (I'm not a big fan of the desert climate.)
Keep an eye out for Jaye's other blog posts, coming soon!
Want to complete your work experience at Wakefield Press? Email maddy@wakefieldpress.com.au to express your interest.