Author Jessica Johns Talks about Her Debut Horror Novel Bad Cree

Author Jessica Johns sits down with Daybreak Star Radio’s Aiyana and describes how growing up in rural Alberta influenced her love of the horror genre. The rolling prairie and surrounding forests were a beautiful backdrop for her childhood but also gave inspiration to many a scary story told in the dark.

Jessica grew up in a family of storytellers and always knew it was something she wanted to pursue, even if those around her didn’t use art as profession. During her last year of Undergrad, her college finally added a creative writing course where she met her teacher who specialized in gothic writing. During her time with this teacher, she was able to find her path and where writing could take her.

Bad Cree focuses a lot on dreams and centers the Cree understanding of dreamwork and how it fits into their culture and traditions. Jessica wanted that idea to be tied into the story since it is such a big part of her culture, and she has never seen dreams and their power shown in horror in a way that represents her culture.

Leaving one’s world and being transported to another is one of Jessica’s favorite aspects of reading and storytelling, and if even one person was able to experience that with Bad Cree, she feels she has done her job.

As with many writers, writer’s block comes up in Jessica’s day to day. Her solution is to simply jump to different projects. Having several projects going at once allows her to keep her writing schedule and routine, even if her mind drifts from one, there is another one ready for her to work on. It is also important to remember to have balance. Spend time with friends and family and recharge your batteries.

For any young storytellers out there, Jessica implores you that even though there will be so many reasons to not do something, not pursue art, just do it anyways. Find your people and your community and allow them to boost you up as you create.

Be sure to check out Jessica John’s Bad Cree and keep a lookout for her next book which will center on climate horror and queer love.