Barbara Dee: Writing Stories That Matter #books

Critics have compared her to Judy Blume, praising her ability to tackle tough topics with authenticity and heart. From Maybe He Just Likes You, which explores consent, to Halfway Normal, a moving story about life after cancer, and Star-Crossed, a groundbreaking middle-grade novel about LGBTQ+ identity, Barbara Dee’s books don’t just entertain—they spark important conversations. In this interview, Barbara Dee shares the inspirations behind her stories, her thoughts on censorship and book bans, and why middle schoolers deserve books that reflect their real-life struggles. She also discusses her latest book, Tear This Down, which explores activism, rewriting history, and the power of young voices.