Page 56 - Novelist Post – J.D. Barker and more

Molly Johnston Shares How Her Stories
By Carly Preston
Stories That
Build
Confidence and
process, and reflections on writing for tweens. From the peaceful landscapes of the Berkshires to the laughter of girls galloping across lush meadows, Molly’s vibrant imagination conti- nues to leave an indelible impression on her readers. Whether you are a devoted fan of the Girl Adventure series or discovering Molly’s work for the first time, this interview promises an intimate look into the heart of a writer deter- mined to uplift and inspire.
What inspired you to create the Girl Adventure Series focused on themes like friendship, courage, and overcoming challenges?
I was bullied, rejected, and felt like I didn't belong for much of my life. But I learned that my worth isn't defined by others. After some- one attacked my reputation and harassed me,
I decided to write a book highlighting the im- portance of friendship, courage, and resilience. This process helped me overcome my negative self-beliefs. It's vital for girls to know their value. Supportive friendships where people en- courage each other during tough times promote growth. My books aim to convey this message.
How has your love of horseback riding influenced the characters and stories in your books?
Horseback riding has deeply shaped my characters and story. Through their experiences with horses, my characters develop confiden- ce, responsibility, and empathy. They learn to care for another life, face challenges, and work together to solve problems. These interactions also teach them the importance of forgive- ness, even toward those who have hurt them.
I believe that teaching children the value of forgiveness is essential, and I strive to convey this lesson in my stories.
What challenges did you face while writing for a tween audience, and how did you overcome them?
Writing for tween girls was challenging. I needed to address topics they cared about and not just what I thought might interest them. To understand their interests, I researched and found that bullying, rejection, and stories about horses are common concerns and popular among them.
I also discovered that coming-of-age themes are significant for tween girls. Topics like having a boy crush, being teased by friends, and seeking advice from a parent or a true friend about their feelings are prevalent. These are sensitive subjects and need to be
handled with care. Get it wrong, and the reader struggles to finish the book.
Can you walk us through your process of developing relatable characters like Morgan, Madison, and Tilly?
These characters came from my heart. I filled them with my own quirky sense of humor, easy-going nature, and strong faith. My faith guided me through the stories, providing a sense of value and purpose. Additionally, my close relationship with my mom and her values influenced the creation of these characters. As I wrote, they began to come to life on their own—they fed off each other, their emotions developed, and they became real to me.
Morgan is a caring, tomboyish fighter who defends herself and friends. She stands up for herself confidently.
Madison is caring, has a strong bond with her mother, and aims to resolve conflicts peacefully. She dislikes seeing her friend's struggle.
Tilly loves horses like her mother and shares a strong connection with her gruff but loving grandfather. She stands up against bullying and supports others. Horse riding boosted her confidence.
These characters reflect traits of the author.
How do you balance serious themes like bullying with the uplifting tone that defines your stories?
My quirky sense of humor and focus on well-being help me create an uplifting tone in my stories. The characters share a strong bond, and when one faces bullying, they support each other and refuse to let it hold them back. They strive for greatness together, showing resilience and the power of friendship.
Focusing on the negative can hinder growth and progress. Everyone faces difficulties and not everyone will like us. Staying strong with those who care about us is an effective way to handle life's negatives.
What role do animals, especially horses, play in helping your characters grow and find their inner strength?
Horses are sensitive animals that can respond to human emotions, giving an opportunity for children to develop confidence, responsibility, and resilience. Children who care for horses— feeding, grooming, and riding—gain experience in overcoming fears, building trust, and taking responsibility for another living being. These activities contribute to emotional development and self-confidence. In these stories, characters
Inspire Young M Readers
Empower Tween Girls Through
Friendship, Courage, and Horses
Molly Johnston discusses how her personal experiences with bullying, love of horses, and strong faith shape her empowering Girl Adventure series for tween girls, focusing on resilience, friendship, and growth.
London
Heartfelt
olly Johnston is a luminous force in the world of children’s literature, crafting deeply res- onant stories that inspire cour- age, friendship, and personal
growth. Her award-winning Girl Adventure series—beloved by readers and their fami- lies alike—brims with heartfelt lessons and empowering messages, all delivered through the lens of her memorable young protago- nists and their soulful, transformative bonds with horses. Molly’s books do so much more than entertain—they offer guidance to girls navigating the turbulence of bullying, self-doubt, and change while celebrating the resilience and bravery that lie within.
What sets Molly apart as an author is the authenticity she brings to her pages. Drawing from her own experiences of overcoming bul- lies, nurturing friendships, and finding solace in horseback riding, Molly infuses her stories with purpose and genuine emotion. Her characters, such as Morgan, Madison, and Tilly, leap off the page as real, relatable girls whose struggles and victories feel personal to every reader. Through her vivid storytelling and thoughtful exploration of life’s challenges, Molly reminds us all—young or old—that strength and kind- ness can change lives.
In this issue of Novelist Post, we are thrilled to showcase Molly Johnston’s journey, creative
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