Local Author Barbara Dee Holds Book Event for 'Trauma Queen'

Young adults came in droves to the Chappaqua Library to laud local author Barbara Dee on the release of her fourth book, “Trauma Queen.” On Tuesday night, the library was full of gaiety and good cheer.

The program began as most literary presentations do, with the author reading an excerpt from her work. What followed next was a totally engaging evening consisting of drama and chocolate and nail polish party favors. As Chappaqua teens and the teen librarian took on the roles of the protagonist, Marigold and her mother, Becca. Dee’s book sprang to life.

Trauma Queen is the story of a 13-year-old girl who is basically mortified by the mere presence of her mother - a sentiment shared by the vast majority of daughters. In Marigold’s case, her feelings are justifiable since her mom is a performance artist. In one scene she smears peanut butter on her arm and sprinkles it with seeds, in preparation for an appearance on earth day in which she will attempt to attract birds.

When asked why she choose this particular vocation for the mother Dee responded, “I was trying to think about the most embarrassing mom you could imagine.” 

Dee’s writerly voice resonates with middle schoolers. When they read her words, they hear themselves speaking. During spirit week Marigold shows up at school wearing pajamas on the wrong day. She speed dials her mom and says, “I’m the only one in the entire school wearing pajamas. I look like a total dork.” Dee has honed her craft by listening intently to her offspring and their friends at home and during carpools.

Many teens find Dee’s work refreshing. They appreciate an author who eschews the fantasy genre. Lauren Berger has read and enjoyed Dee’s first three books.

“They showed how a teen might picture life, instead of like a fantasy,” she noted. Leslie Regan said, “She writes the kind that I like: realistic fiction.”  

Ellie Kotz relished the opportunity to hear Dee speak about her work. “I like hearing the author talk about the book. It gives you deeper insight,” she observed.

Aspiring writers in the audience were eager to hear Dee’s advice on her craft. “I think you should read what you really love to read,” Dee began. “Practice reading your stuff out loud and get used to sharing it,” she added.