Jennette McCurdy Unveils Debut Novel ‘Half His Age’

Jennette McCurdy, known for her roles as a child actor, has recently released her debut novel, “Half His Age.” This marks a significant shift from her previous work, showcasing her evolution as a writer and storyteller.

About “Half His Age”

“Half His Age” dives into the complex relationship between a teenage girl and her high school English teacher. The protagonist, 17-year-old Waldo, is depicted as a typical American teenager living in a trailer park in Alaska. However, her life takes a turn when she becomes romantically involved with her much older teacher, Mr. Korgy.

Thematic Elements

• Exploration of Female Rage: McCurdy addresses the topic of female rage, emphasizing that it often goes unacknowledged in society.
• Online Shopping Addiction: Waldo’s struggles with online shopping serve as a poignant reflection of her emotional turmoil.
• Age Gap Dynamics: The novel critiques the power imbalances present in age-gap relationships.

McCurdy explains that the story is inspired by her own unprocessed experiences and frustrations. She acknowledges that adolescence is a time filled with confusing emotions and desires, which informs Waldo’s journey.

Creative Control and Future Projects

The success of her previous memoir, “I’m Glad My Mom Died,” serves as a backdrop for McCurdy’s current endeavors. This memoir has been optioned for a television adaptation featuring Jennifer Aniston as McCurdy’s mother, with McCurdy involved as a writer. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining creative authority over how her experiences are portrayed.

Upcoming Adaptations

Although “Half His Age” has not yet been optioned for film or television, McCurdy has completed a screenplay adaptation of the novel. She expresses a strong desire to direct the project herself, reflecting her commitment to preserving her artistic vision.

Conclusion

With “Half His Age,” Jennette McCurdy embarks on a new journey as a novelist, tackling themes of desire, rage, and identity. Her unique perspective on the struggles of young women resonates throughout the narrative, making the book a notable contribution to contemporary literature.