Becoming Jensy Willett
by Sara Scott
Released: Apr 12, 2026
Genre: Young Adult / New Adult
Why this book and why now?
“Becoming Jensy Willett” was, actually, my initial idea for the Jensy Willett series. With the completion of the trilogy, I wanted to give the readers a view of Jensy’s teenage years and her coming to grips with her sexuality and the importance of her first love.
Would you and your main character(s) get along?
The character of Jensy is very much like me. So, while I believe I would really like her, there are definitely aspects of her personality that would frustrate me (just like those aspects of my personality frustrate me).
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
I met someone years ago who was named Jensy. I’d never met anyone before or since with that name. When looking for a character name, the name just popped into my head.
How does it feel to finally share this book with readers?
I am happy and excited to share this part of Jensy Willett’s life. I thought it was necessary to explain and detail why Lisa Fitzhugh played such an important part in “The Touch of Her Voice.”
Is there anything you wish readers knew before diving into this book?
I would like to share how much joy it has brought me to write “Becoming Jensy Willett,” and also how excited I am to share more of her story.
What’s one fun fact about your book that most people wouldn’t know?
The rough draft of this book was actually written prior to the publication of the trilogy, but was released after.
What’s your main character(s)’s favorite book and why?
“A Separate Peace” by John Knowles was a favorite of Jensy’s. It allowed her the chance to see how we can sometimes be our own worst enemies; an enemy that comes from within us rather than from the outside in.
Which character do you relate to the most, and why?
I really relate to two of my characters. I relate to Lisa Fitzhugh as a coach. Much of my own coaching philosophy is shared through Fitz. But I also relate to Jensy who, in so many ways, is a part of who I am.
Were there any scenes that surprised you as you wrote?
There was a scene in the weight room when Lisa Fitzhugh gives a hint about what she is feeling… and Jensy misses it.
Which character was the most fun to write, and which was the hardest?
I really enjoyed writing the character of Alyssa… a character without much of a filter, but who was a good friend. The hardest was Lisa Fitzhugh… writing to make sure she had depth.
Did any of your characters surprise you by developing in unexpected ways?
Alyssa turned out to be more insightful than I had initially planned.
If you could spend a day with one character from the book, who would it be and why?
I would spend the day with Jensy, because I think she’d be willing to do and try new things.
If your book had a scent, what would it smell like?
Sandalwood and patchouli.
If your book had a signature dessert, what would it be?
Homemade red velvet cake.
Your characters are throwing a party—what’s the theme?
Basketball
Do you outline your books in detail, or do you prefer to discover the story as you write?
I have written both ways; however, I am more likely to discover the story as I write.
Do you have any writing rituals or habits?
I usually write for several hours in the mid-afternoon into the early evening.
Who are your biggest literary influences?
Harper Lee
What are you currently reading?
Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo.
If you could have dinner with any author, living or dead, who would it be?
Harper Lee
