Valerie Wilson Wesley Discusses "The Mysterious Death of Junetta Plum" and the Harlem Renaissance

The Harlem Renaissance Setting

• 💡 The author was inspired to set "The Mysterious Death of Junetta Plum" in Harlem during the Roaring '20s due to her fascination with this extraordinary period in American history.
• 📚 By researching and writing about the era, Wesley was able to deeply explore the characters, locations, and nuances of the Harlem Renaissance.

Harriet Stone: The Protagonist

• 📌 Harriet, the main character, is inspired by the author's grandmother, Carmen Penchum Wilson, who moved from the South to become a registered nurse in New York.
• 🎯 Harriet embodies determination and strength, reflecting the experiences of many women who plowed ahead and were determined to define their own lives.
• 💅 Like the author's grandmother, Harriet is depicted as a stylish woman with a love for perfume, candy, and flair, serving as a tribute to her late grandmother.

Historical Influences and Research

• 🎭 The novel draws parallels to the Spanish flu pandemic, noting the widespread death and grief, similar to recent experiences with COVID-19, which informs Harriet's journey of understanding grief.
• ✍️ As a former journalist, Wesley enjoys the research process but must balance it with the need to deliver a compelling mystery plot, story, dialogue, and excitement.
• 🧐 The author finds that delving into history reveals layers of understanding, making the research process a rewarding endeavor.

Future of the Series

• 🌟 Wesley is actively plotting the next adventures for Harriet Stone, with the second book in the series already in progress.
• 📖 The upcoming book will explore a different facet of history, continuing the narrative of Harriet's adventures.