We recently connected with Jade Maree and have shared our conversation below.
Jade, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s talk about innovation. What’s the most innovative thing you’ve done in your career?
The most innovative thing that I have done in my career thus far was learning how to design my own book covers for the Corona Chronicles series. The task was initially daunting because I think many authors and other creators feel as though we have to find professionals to bring our visions to life. But it can be difficult, especially when considering the financial aspect. I was still in high school while working on my first book, so I decided to explore other options to save money and ensure that my title page was EXACTLY how I wanted. After trying a few different online tools, I settled on Canva because I loved what I was able to create. Even without the premium subscription, it was so cool to combine different shapes to create new objects. And what I loved most about the end product was that it perfectly represented the simple, yet powerful feel that I want each book to give readers.
Jade, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hi! My name is Jade Maree, and I am the author of the ongoing “Corona Chronicles” series. The story of how I got started is admittedly rather unconventional. As the series name suggests, I got started at the start of the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. It began as journaling; I was only sixteen when the pandemic started (it’s been that long?!), and I started writing in a notebook as a way to stay busy when the world seemed to be coming to an end. As the pandemic continued, one notebook turned into two, then three, then six. And just like that, I began to see the story of my life [literally] come together. With encouragement from my parents, I started the process of turning my notebooks into a series. And in April 2022, I released my first book “The Beginning of the End” on Amazon.
One of the interesting things about the Corona Chronicles is that, of course, it takes place during a global pandemic. But the coolest thing is when the story (narrated through the eyes of 16 year-old Jade) is just as potent, if not more, in a post-pandemic world. Because now, we can all sympathize and reminisce with the memory of life in quarantine: the losses, the gains, the lessons, and every little moment in between.
Overall, I’m most proud of my courage to put this story based on my life into the world. I think vulnerability is often seen in a negative way, but it is also what makes the Corona Chronicles such a unique, humorous, and heartfelt read. Of course, setbacks are also a part of any entrenpreneurs path, so I’m also extremely proud of the courage to keep moving forward.
I’m so very excited to continue sharing this story with the world as I work my way through all 7 books of the series! And as readers follow Jade from the star of the pandemic through the end of high school, I challenge them to find themselves in her story, then tell their own. With book 2, “Good and Necessary Trouble” on the horizon, remember two things: 1.) the beauty of continuity in the face of change and 2.) the beauty of change in the face of continuity.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I do want to start by clarifying: this lesson is not one that I had to fully unlearn. Rather, it’s a lesson that I had to find a new approach to. I often operate with the mindset of “Everything will work out.” And while I think this is generally true, it was actually hurting me when it came to my book series, as well as other personal experiences. In order for things to work out the way you want, you have to be aggressive in your approach; passivity often does more harm than good. This means to be intentional and impactful with your goals.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
One thing that “non-creative” people may not realize is that inspiration often strikes from during most uneventful moments. Creativity is not something that necessarily has to be forced, and I think that when people overthink it, they burn out. So I would recommend starting by going through your everyday life as usual, but take note when something catches your attention (ex: a bird, people laughing, a stain on the wall, etc.)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amazon.com/~/B09XJKQ9W4
- Instagram: Mareechronicles