Author TJ Klune, known for his captivating queer fantasy novels, recently celebrated the re-release of his book, The Bones Beneath My Skin, originally published in 2018, through Tor Books. The new edition features a hardcover format and brings back a compelling narrative about a young man facing personal struggles after the death of his parents, loss of his job, and estrangement from his brother. He finds unexpected companionship in a man named Alex and a little girl who calls herself Artemis Darth Vader, leading to transformative experiences in the isolated family cabin in Oregon.
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Klune's work often resonates with readers through the lens of endearing characters, delivered in his signature quirky style. In a recent interview, he reflected on his career trajectory from indie author to mainstream success, citing The House in the Cerulean Sea as pivotal in introducing his stories to a wider audience. He discussed the extensive plotting that informs his writing process, often creating outlines that can stretch to over 100,000 words to keep himself focused, especially given his ADHD.
Klune began his writing journey in childhood, inspired by a video game character, Samus Aran, which sparked his imagination and desire to write. He emphasized how his upbringing in rural Oregon shaped his creative path despite the challenges he faced regarding his identity and interests.
Transitioning to traditional publishing has brought its own set of challenges and rewards for Klune. His first book in 2011 was unexpectedly successful, but subsequent books met varied receptions. He expressed gratitude for the support from his current publisher, Tor, in reintroducing his earlier works, including his most loved series.
In discussing the themes present in his books, Klune shared that they often mirror real-world issues, such as the recent anti-trans movements in the U.S. He strives to address these topics without overshadowing the narrative or character development, focusing on creating relatable, deeply felt characters.
Klune recounted an extraordinary experience of speaking at the National Archives in 2022, reflecting on how it validated his lifelong aspirations. He continues to engage with readers, especially from the queer community, hoping to provide representation and a sense of belonging through his stories.
For aspiring writers, Klune advises against chasing trends, highlighting the importance of writing authentically. He also champions the value of fan fiction as a vital ground for writers to develop their craft without the burdens of world-building.
Ultimately, Klune emphasizes that while his books are aimed at a queer audience, they are meant for anyone who wants to enjoy them, striving to blend entertainment with meaningful topics.