By Josh Truter

Accomplished journalist, editor, photographer and writer, Ann Arnott, has recently launched her first book on amazon.com.

Josh Truter, an associate contributor to Arnotts Landing Publishing, chatted to Ann about some of the social issues that she explores in the novel.

JT: Ann, you’re known for being a magazine writer and editor. This is your first venture into writing fiction. You’ve chosen the Gen Z genre. What motivated you to go that route?

AA: The younger Gen Zs are just entering their teens while the older ones are still in their twenties, trying to navigate their way around adulthood. It’s one of the most fascinating periods in a person’s evolvement. This is the next generation to start flexing its intellect to make a difference in the world.

JT: What is the main theme of the book?

AA: Big Yikes! Sus, Shook & Salty is about a kid who has lost her entire foundation. She’s on the run, homeless, having to figure out how to survive with absolutely no support structure. It’s a story of resilience, ingenuity and coming of age in an often hostile society.

JT: What are some of the social issues that you explore?

AA: Bullying, anger management, parental neglect, health issues, betrayal, deception, kidnapping, sibling discord and conspiracy are all mushed together to create endless obstacles through which she must navigate. But it’s also about friendship, loyalty and taking responsibility for her actions. One of her biggest challenges was learning to let go.

JT: Is there any element of romance?

AA: Ah well, you’ll have to read the books to find the answer to that one!

Check out the Big Yikes! Sus, Shook and Salty book series available on Amazon