Q&A with Timmy Weiss on “The Battle for Innocence”

An interview with Timmy Weiss on “The Battle for Innocence”—Weston, Massachusetts

Who would you recommend this book to and why? 

I would recommend this book to middle schoolers because they could relate to the characters within the book.  All the main characters are in 7th grade so it would be perfect for kids that age to read this book and see how some kids live dangerous lives at a young age.  Middle schoolers would also enjoy the book since they could picture themselves talking and acting like those kids at times.

Why is this book a helpful resource for teens? 

This book is a very helpful resource for teens because it emphasizes that you don’t need drinking or drugs to have fun.  There is plenty to do and to enjoy without that stuff and learning that at a young age is critical.  Also it details how we can get God to work in our lives at a young age by going to church, praying and seeking him for guidance.  If we do these things then we could learn whether we should keep hanging out with people, if we should get to know some people,  if we should pursue a relationship with someone, or even if we should help someone gain faith.

Who is your favorite character in this story and why? 

My favorite character in this story is Jon.  He is so connected with his faith and has so much care for the people around him at such a young age it is hard not to be inspired by him.  He tries to help his friends stay away from bad behaviors and tries to teach them faith, even when they laugh and make fun of him for it.  Also, I admire how kind he is to everyone and how well he trusts God to guide him.  I particularly loved the end of the story when he left Chris’ party and ran across town to Chantal’s house when they were done with the youth group to tell her he liked her.  That boldness and commitment combined with his other qualities makes him an unmatched character in this book.

What was the most surprising thing about seeing the main characters’ lives in 7th grade? 

The biggest difference is Chris.  He is a party animal, crazy, guy and he will do whatever the Dunkin brothers tell him to.  Compared to his self discipline now it’s hard to believe it is the same person.  Cathay has also changed dramatically.  Cathy is so connected to God, so kind-hearted and always looks out for her sister.  So it’s very surprising how in two years the paths of our lives can change so dramatically.

Why is it important for readers to know the backstory shared in this novel? 

The most important lesson the backstory teaches us compared to this book is that people either drift from God and become a shell of themselves, or find God and become strengthened.  It is very easy to lose touch with your faith yet it is very possible with some commitment and a faith lens in life to gain a meaningful relationship with him.  This is demonstrated through Cathy, who has drifted so far away from her past self, which was committed to God and Chris and Jason who have grown so much in faith.

About Timmy Weiss

Timmy is a recent graduate of St. Sebastian’s High School. He was a varsity tennis and varsity soccer player, as well as a part of MPA (men with positive attitudes), the newspaper named The Walrus, and the peer mentoring club. He enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, volunteering, and going to sports games. He plans to study communications within the renowned SI Newhouse School at Syracuse University.