In Autumn Krause’s The Gods Will Sing Our Song (Delacorte, Sept. 1), Japanese American teenagers Ren and Violet are both struggling with family upheavals during World War II. When their families are taken to the same relocation center, the two teens are drawn together with the help of magical relics, and they uncover a possible solution to their problems—that could come with a grave cost. A reviewer for Kirkus praised the YA romance novel, inspired by the author’s own family history, as a “beautiful, magic-infused love story that doesn’t shy away from harsh realities.” Krause answered our questions via email.

What inspired you to tell this story? Was there a moment where the idea really struck you?

Growing up as a direct descendent of the [survivors of] WWII Japanese American camps, I always knew I would write this book. I also knew that I wanted it to be centered around two teens who fall deeply in love despite the betrayal of their own government and that I wanted to infuse the narrative with folklore and magic. Over time, the story took shape in my head with the magic unfolding amid the perilous setting of the militaristic camp. Its presence heightens and expands the sweeping, epic romance between the two teens who cling to each other amid the chaos.

When and where did you write this book? Describe the scene and any necessary accoutrements or talismans.

I wrote this book in our living room between the hours of 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. while my older children slept and my newborn made appearances for nursing…which was perfect because I swear the writing ghosts are livelier at night. My talisman would probably be my Hydro Flask, which somehow magically stays filled. (OK, my husband always makes sure it stays filled and I stay hydrated—when I am writing, I’m lost to the world and my own bodily needs.)

How was the experience of writing a novel inspired by your own family’s history? Was this in some ways more challenging—or more rewarding?

It certainly added weight to the process because this was an atrocity that my family lived through firsthand and I wanted to capture it correctly. Interviewing my grandpa for the book is something I will always remember and treasure.

How do you balance heavy themes with romance and magic, especially writing for young readers?

I balance the heaviness by having the two teenage main characters at the center of the story be exactly what they are—teenagers. Despite the harrowing circumstances, they have electric chemistry that can’t be stifled, natural banter, and pieces which complete each other. They have the same fears, thoughts, and hopes that any teenagers have.

Aside from writing, what brings you joy in your life? These could be activities, people, places, experiences, whatever comes to mind.

Spending time with my family, working out, and trying to lure the local crows into doing my bidding with shiny antiquaries.

What are some of your favorite recent romance reads?

Lovely War by Julie Berry! I reread it while drafting The Gods Will Sing Our Song and fell for the love-story-within-a-love-story construct. I also recently enjoyed the romantic tension that fills The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas.

Nina Palattella is the senior editorial assistant.