Jessie Cole is the author of the exquisite Staying: A Memoir, which was shortlisted for the 2019 Victorian Premier's Literary Award.
It is an exceptionally written account of an otherwise idyllic and enchanting childhood, fractured inexplicably by the loss of two family members to suicide.
In this episode, Jessie graciously takes us on the journey of wading through the trauma and loss, and shares how she was able to turn immense tragedy into an incredibly powerful and nourishing piece of literature.
We chat about the impervious nature of grief, the complexities of family dynamics and the significance of the majestic rain forest that still plays an integral role in Jessie's life today.
We get an inside look into the writing process and discuss the challenges that arise when writing a memoir, as well as the importance of representing the facts and the people as they were.
Jessie generously explores these themes and many more, with deep thought and consideration and I'm sure you'll enjoy the conversation as much as I did.
Listen to the full episode here:
Jessie is also the author of two novels, Darkness on the Edge of Town and Deeper Water.
To find out more or to connect with Jessie Cole, you can head to:
https://jessie-cole.com/
https://www.facebook.com/jessiecolewriter/