An Interview with author George Jreije

1. Please tell us a bit about Shad Hadid and the Alchemists of Alexandria, as well as the forthcoming sequel.

Shad Hadid’s first adventure sees the character, a 12-year-old aspiring baker, discover that he comes from a long line of alchemists. The novel centers on his beginning school at the Alexandria Academy, a school for alchemy. There, he uses his creativity in the kitchen to add an imaginative twist to an ancient magic, discovering that only through trusting in others can he overcome odds that may seem impossible. The sequel will see the young hero journey home to Lebanon while being pursued by those he thwarted in the first book!

2. What draws you to write for young readers?

The sense of wonder that children have tends to be lost as we age due to many reasons. Writing about kids has helped me rediscover that sense of joy and curiousity just as reading it might have that effect on other adults.

3. Please share with us how you crafted Shad, the main character, and his mystical world.

Shad’s character is a snapshot of the kid I was at twelve—hungry, stubborn, and a troublemaker. Writing him simply required me to channel that younger version of myself! The world of alchemy is our world, only with a magical twist. I thought about those ignored parts of our everyday where we just might miss something special.

4. What messages do you hope to share in your work?

Different readers will take away differing things from the book. I believe younger audiences may really connect with the message of trusting your friends and staying true to yourself. Meanwhile, older audiences will enjoy the struggle between tradition and modernity.

5. Where can we go to find out more about your work, including social media spaces and author/publisher web pages?

The best place to learn more about my work is through my social media, where you can find me at @ByGeorgeJreije on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok!