Writing is rarely a solitary act. My work has been shaped by years of collaboration, critique, teaching, and shared creative practice. I’m grateful to be part of a community of writers, educators, and artists who challenge my thinking and help me sharpen my craft. A few of them have generously shared their experiences working with me below.
“Jennifer Young was a pleasure to work with during her year-long fellowship in Stony Brook Southampton’s Children’s Lit Fellows program. She is curious and motivated, writes well, works hard on her manuscript revisions, and provides thoughtful and meaningful editorial feedback to her peers.” – Emma Walton Hamilton, Fellowship Director, Author, Producer
“Jennifer has an excellent eye for clear and dynamic writing. What I appreciate about her notes is that when she points to something that isn’t working, she doesn’t prescribe a solution right away. She wants to ensure that the writing reflects the author’s thoughts and voice, so the first thing she does is ask what it is they’re trying to say. This is such an empowering approach because it really helps an author to work through ideas and then articulate them in the most effective way to truly engage and move a reader. Jennifer’s warmth, humor, and passion shine through to her writing, teaching, and friendships.” – Andrea Paldy, Journalist and Professor of Writing and Film
“Young’s writing shines a light on life’s wonderments and misgivings in a way that transports us to new directions and retrospections, particularly in her contribution to children’s literature through poetry and lyricism. She makes compelling rhythmic gestures within traditional forms “as gifts of love,” and “gifts of light,” transfixing audiences with the gentle music of her imagination. Jennifer Young’s bright lens of vibrant storytelling is nothing short of craftsmanship, full of poise and energy.” – Michelle Whittaker, 2017 NYFA Poetry Fellow, and author of Spoke the Dark Matter and Surge.
“Jennifer Young is an enormously talented writer, creator and educator. We met in the Stony Brook Southampton Children’s Lit Fellows program where she immediately stood out as a leader among the group, always bringing everyone together. As a writer, Jennifer has a gift for language and imagery that’s charming, whimsical and so memorable. She is a storyteller, with no shortage of beautiful and touching ideas. She is also a multi-tasker and all-around inspiration, juggling her career, creative passions (gorgeous photography) and family life. Jennifer always lights up the room with her energy and positivity. I’m so grateful that our mutual love for writing managed to bring us together and can’t wait to read what she writes next!” – Alana Sanko, Writer, Producer, Adjunct Professor
Jennifer Young 