Welcome to JennyDownham.com

Jenny Downham is a British author known for writing young adult novels that deal with emotional and difficult topics. She was born in 1964 and lives in London with her two sons. Before becoming a writer, Downham worked as an actress, often performing in places like prisons and hospitals. This background helped her develop a deep understanding of people, which shows in her writing.

Her first book, Before I Die, came out in 2007. It tells the story of Tessa, a teenager with terminal leukemia. Tessa makes a list of things she wants to do before she dies, which includes falling in love. The book explores life, death, and the urgency to live fully. It won awards and was later turned into a movie called Now Is Good, starring Dakota Fanning.

In 2010, Downham published You Against Me. This novel focuses on Mikey and Ellie, two teenagers whose siblings are involved in a serious sexual assault case. As Mikey and Ellie get closer, they must face hard truths about their families. The book looks at themes of loyalty, justice, and love.

Her third book, Unbecoming, came out in 2015. It follows three generations of women—Katie, her mother, and her grandmother. As they reconnect, family secrets come to light. The story touches on memory, identity, and the struggles of dealing with the past. It also addresses dementia and how it affects families.

In 2019, Downham released Furious Thing. This novel is about Lexi, a girl who struggles with anger issues at home. The book explores emotional abuse and the impact of toxic family dynamics. It was shortlisted for the Costa Book Awards.

Downham’s books are known for being honest and emotional. She writes about tough subjects but in a way that feels real and relatable. Her stories often focus on family, love, and personal growth. She continues to write and share stories that connect with readers of all ages.

Jenny Downham was an actress for many years before concentrating on her writing full-time. She lives in London with her two sons.

Her book BEFORE I DIE was critically acclaimed and was shortlisted for the 2007 Guardian Award and the 2008 Lancashire Children’s Book of the Year, nominated for the 2008 Carnegie Medal and the 2008 Booktrust Teenage Prize, and won the 2008 Branford Boase Award.

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