School of Education and Human Development student Joanna Dalton '24 hosted an interview with Park on The Write Time podcast, about the author's latest book.
The Write Time podcast recently hosted acclaimed author Patricia Park in a virtual student-led interview with Joanna Dalton '24. Their dynamic conversation unfolded through a webinar focused on imposter syndrome; Park's recent young adult novel, Imposter Syndrome and Other Confessions of Alejandra Kim (Crown Books, 2023), features themes of identity and inclusivity.
Their conversation "provided a compelling glimpse into the world of young adult literature, as Patricia Park seamlessly intertwined discussions on her personal journey to disability, imposter syndrome, mental health, and young adult literature,” said Dalton.
Currently a senior enrolled in the School of Education and Human Development’s (SEHD) five-year education program, Dalton will graduate this May with a bachelor's degree in English and certification in elementary education. She sought the opportunity to interview Park due to her keen interest in diversity, equity, and accessibility — a strong theme in Park's writing.
Dalton noted that the conversation with Patricia Park underscored the transformative power of literature in addressing diverse aspects of young adult life. “The author's candid sharing of experiences not only enriched the narrative but also offered valuable insights for teachers who want to open up the floor for their young adult students who are navigating similar challenges,” she said.
Associate Professor Bryan Ripley Crandall, PhD, director of the Connecticut Writing Project of Fairfield hosts The Write Time podcast alongside Tanya Baker, director of writing programs for the National Writing Project. Past conversations on the show have featured interviews with authors such as Kwame Alexander, Jerry Craft, Joseph Bruchac, Laurie Halse Anderson, and Nikki Grimes. Dalton is the first student interviewer to appear on the podcast.
Patricia Park is an associate professor of creative writing in the MFA program at American University. In addition to Imposter Syndrome and Other Confessions of Alejandra Kim, she is author of an adult novel, Re Jane, a retelling of Jane Eyre which was named New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice, winner of an American Library Association Award, and an NPR Fresh Air pick.
The episode of The Write Time featuring Dalton's interview of Park aired on Dec. 14 at 7 p.m., and can be found on YouTube as part of The Connecticut Writing Project.
