An Interview with Stacey Jay

I recently had the opportunity to interview Stacey Jay, the author of You Are So Undead to Me, Undead Much, and My So-Called Death. Enjoy!

1. Why do you choose to write about zombies? Have you ever thought of possibly trying to get a contemporary YA book published?

I've always loved paranormal stories, and at the time I wrote the first Megan Berry book there weren't any zombie books out. It was a new thing and my publishers were excited about the series. It was my first break and I'm still really happy with how the Megan books turned out. But since then I've branched out into different paranormal themes, and I would definitely consider a contemporary book if the perfect idea presented itself. I think contemporary books can be just as exciting as paranormals

2. I heard that you have multiple pen names that you write different genre's under. What do you like about writing young adult books?

I'm a young adult at heart. To me that means that I still have a lot of energy and enthusiasm and I hold tight to the belief that I can do something to change the world. I think a lot of adult books lose that hopeful note in their stories, and I miss that. I don't think we should ever stop being passionate or hopeful.

3. Will there be more books in the Megan Berry series? If so, can you tell us anything about it/them?

Razorbill canceled the series after UNDEAD MUCH? But after a tremendous reader response, I wrote and self-published a novella to tie up the loose ends at the end of that book. The novella, VALENTINE'S DAY OF THE UNDEAD, is available now for Kindle, Nook, and as a print on demand paperback with Createspace. So far the sales have been pretty good! If they stay strong, I'd definitely be up for self-pubbing more Megan books. I love her. She's one of my favorite characters that I've ever written

4. What are your favorite zombie books/movies/other?

I love 28 Days Later. Maybe the ultimate zombie film--in my humble opinion. I also love Zombieland for the mix of horror and campy humor. As anyone who's read the Zombie Settler books can tell you, I love mixing the humor and the gore.

5. Quick! Describe each of your YA books in 5 words or less.

YOU ARE SO UNDEAD TO ME-Girl kills zombies, gets guy.
UNDEAD MUCH?-Girl loses guy, kills zombies.
MY SO-CALLED DEATH--Girl becomes zombie, solves murder.
THE LOCKET--Evil locket threatens true love.
JULIET IMMORTAL (Sept 2011)--Juliet fights Romeo through eternity

6. What is one book out today that you wish you would have had the opportunity to write?

Um...none. I fall in deep love with books all the time, but I don't ever wish that I had told those stories. I tell the stories that are mine to tell and enjoy the stories of others. Writing theirs would feel inauthentic.

7. Is there anything you would like to add?

Thanks for having me over to your blog! And happy reading to one and all.