Q&A with Jane Jakubowski on “Gripped Part 3: The Fallout”

An Interview with Jane Jakubowski on Gripped by Stacy A. Padula—Auburndale, Massachusetts

1. This book touches upon the use of Adderall, acid, marijuana, alcohol, and Xanax. For that reason, parents may not want their children to read the novel. However, the author feels there is much to be learned. What do you think tweens and teens could learn from reading Gripped Part 3 that would be beneficial for them?

Parents may think that by shielding their kids from learning about drugs that they are protecting their kids from using them, yet, Gripped: Part 3 is a perfect example of how people with a lack of knowledge about drugs and its dangers are more likely to abuse them. Reading books that don’t shy away from the topic of drugs and the devastating effects that follow will only benefit future generations as they step into their teenage years.

2. Why could adults benefit from reading Gripped Part 3?

Adults can benefit from reading Gripped: Part 3 as it will allow them to further understand why it is crucial for their kids to read it. Once they read about the dangers they can better teach their kids about the epidemic and properly prepare them for the real world.

3. What storylines were most intriguing in Gripped Part 3? What kept you wanting to turn the page?

All of the party scenes that were filled with drama, confrontations and the truth coming out tended to be the real page-turners for me. As a reader of a 3rd person perspective book, you have an inside scoop on all sides of the story… and the real truth. It is very intriguing to see how the truth will be revealed to the characters, and how that will affect their relationships. The Taylor storyline also lingers in the back of my mind and I am eager to see if he reunites with his family, and gets released from the crime ring.

4. As drug use abounds in the series, some characters are trying their best to sober up, while others are getting deeper and deeper into substance abuse. How do you think readers can benefit from reading about Chris’s journey from the beginning of the series until now?

Reading about Chris’s journey from addiction to sobriety simply shows readers that there is hope, and there is a way out of the darkness even after making mistakes. Now that Chris is doing much better, he may even be able to help out his friends, be a better influence, and finally be the one who makes others happy, like he has always wanted to be.

5. At this point in the series, what character intrigues you the most and why?

After learning a lot more about Chris and his journey, I feel pretty satisfied with his character, at least for now. At this point in the series, I am very curious about what is going on in the life of the Dunkins–specifically Jordan and Marc (and their relationship as well). There is so much unresolved tension between the two and I’m intrigued to find out the way in which they will or will not make up.

6. What does this book teach readers about why people begin using drugs?

The reason why people get into drugs is not black and white. This book shows that the introduction of drugs could come from the want to cope with pain, feel less self-conscious, have more fun, or even in spite of other people. It is important to read about the different ways drugs may seem alluring to some because it may be easier than one thinks to get addicted.

7. Chris loves Jordan, but Marc hates Jordan. He has slowly been introduced to the reader in the first three books and will play a more significant role later in the series. At this point in the series what are your honest thoughts on Jordan?`

There’s something about the impression he’s had so far that doesn’t tell the full story. Knowing that the suspicion about his interaction with Michelle was debunked makes me want to know more about what really happened, and understand his side of the story.

About Jane Jakubowski

Jane is a senior at Newton South High School in Newton, Massachusetts. She is part of her school’s dance team as well as a competitive and performance dancer at Joanne Langione Dance Center. She is also a member of Newtones, Newton South’s award-winning student-run a capella group. Singing has been a major passion for Jane since childhood as well as performing. Whether it is playing guitar or piano, being in the school musical, or being forced to listen to her sisters sing, Jane can always be found doing something creative and/or in the arts. 

Additionally, Jane has enjoyed working as a lifeguard and a babysitter over the years and feels most fulfilled by doing what she loves while connecting with people. Jane values the importance of family & friend time, meaningful talks, and appreciating life and the fun it has to bring.