It has been almost five years since my debut young adult novel, NO SAD SONGS, first hit shelves. It has been a wild and satisfying writing journey since then, which reminds me of one of the wildest, most out-of-the-blue moments I’ve enjoyed since my first books came into the world.

First, I have to give another massive shout out to my good friend, Birdie Thompson, who happens to be one of the most talented photographers in the Los Angeles area. Check out her portfolio of amazing shots @ Bird’s E...