The pop industry is known for consuming young stars and discarding them like used tissues. Finding a second or third chance after a pop career can be a real challenge. However, for Jay McGuiness, a member of the British-Irish pop group The Wanted, transitioning to new endeavors seems easy. After three years at the top of the charts and touring the world with The Wanted (remember hits like “Glad You Came” and “Heart Vacancy”), Jay claimed the first place in the Strictly Come Dancing competition in 2015. Since then, he has taken on numerous theatrical and television roles, including the musical “Big,” where he played a character made famous by Tom Hanks.
But Jay didn’t limit himself to the world of entertainment. He is a big fan of fantasy books, from J.K. Rowling to Terry Pratchett, so he decided to try his hand at writing and pen books for young adults. For several years, he worked on his first book, inspired by his fantasy idols and the desire to create a multi-layered world where he could escape from reality, as he had done since childhood.
The result of his work is the book “Blood Flowers,” described as a “romantic dystopia” and “perfect for Hunger Games fans.” While many express skepticism toward celebrities turning into writers, Jay McGuiness’ debut as a young adult author proves to be genuinely solid and entertaining. McGuiness possesses a lively writing style, bringing the story of 17-year-old Bear, who lives with his friends in the rundown town of Cobbleside, to vibrant life. Meanwhile, the wealthy and privileged reside in luxury homes in a place known as Roofside. Bear possesses hidden talents – an extraordinary ability to collect vast amounts of the valuable and magical Sinsen collection – which eventually elevate him from a life of poverty.
One of the main themes explored in the book is the issue of class divisions. The story unfolds with magic, betrayal, and murder, rife with class divisions, corruption, and the poignant process of coming-of-age. Jay McGuiness, hailing from a working-class background in the town of Newark, England, says that class division – Roofsiders as the haves and Cobblesiders as the have-nots – is a problem he wanted to delve into.
“I encounter this every day,” says the 33-year-old artist, reflecting on his success in the world of pop and musicals, as well as the changes in his class background over the years. “Changing your situation is hard, even if you change your surroundings. I wanted to see how suddenly you feel like you have the world at your feet and are surrounded by people who grew up in luxury, something you never experienced yourself. You learn about your own prejudices towards these people and their prejudices towards you.”
In “Blood Flowers,” Roofside is ruled by a Lord with twisted motivations. Soon, it becomes clear that the ordinary residents of Cobbleside are manipulated and mistreated by those in power pretending to have their best interests at heart. Did Jay McGuiness intend to convey a political message through this book?
“I read British newspapers every day, even while in Los Angeles, and I feel strongly involved in what’s happening in the UK,” he says. “Even before Covid, I was frustrated with the government, the healthcare system, and the actions of conservatives who strip the country of systems protecting the poorest people. In my opinion, every decision our government makes should serve the people. I know it comes at a cost, but they collect a lot of money from the people… They’re clowns, ruling with money. I’m very frustrated with politics at the moment.”
Jay sees his debut novel as a “safe space” where he can express his political frustrations. “I won’t make a reprehensible mistake or say anything wrong about politics or history. The book is a safe place where I know who the villains are and what their intentions are. It’s a good place for me to explore and express these feelings, hopefully without annoying the readers. A reader expects a good resolution, and in the end, they will get one, but yes, I feel very strongly about many issues.”
Representatives of lower classes are often oppressed and disregarded, sometimes without their knowledge. What does the future hold for Jay McGuiness as a writer? Will he continue creating books for young adults?
It is unknown, but readers are curious about the stories Jay McGuiness will tell in the future, eagerly awaiting his next novels.
FAQ:
1. Who is Jay McGuiness?
Jay McGuiness is a British-Irish musician, dancer, actor, and writer. He was a member of the pop group The Wanted and won the Strictly Come Dancing competition in 2015.
2. What are Jay McGuiness’ interests besides music?
Jay McGuiness is a huge fan of fantasy books and decided to try his hand at writing.
3. What is his debut book called?
His debut book is titled “Blood Flowers.”
4. How is the book “Blood Flowers” described?
The book “Blood Flowers” is described as a “romantic dystopia,” perfect for Hunger Games fans. It is a novel where the author brings to life the story of a 17-year-old boy named Bear, who has an extraordinary ability to collect a magical collection called Sinsen and seeks to change his life of poverty.
5. What are the main themes addressed in the book?
The book explores themes of class divisions, magic, betrayal, murder, and the process of coming-of-age.
6. What are the political messages in the book?
The author reflects his political frustrations and dissatisfaction with the actions of the government and system that afflict the poorer social classes.
7. Does Jay McGuiness plan to continue writing books for young adults?
It is unknown, but readers are interested in Jay McGuiness’ future novels and can’t wait to find out what stories will be told.
8. How have readers responded to the book “Blood Flowers”?
The book “Blood Flowers” has been well-received by readers and is considered a successful debut for the author in the literary world.
Related Links:
– Jay McGuiness’ official website
– Jay McGuiness’ books
The source of the article is from the blog lisboatv.pt