Jennifer Muse lives with her husband, Sam, and their daughter, Ellie, in Hanover County, Virginia. She and Sam grew up in the same neighborhood that they currently live in—conveniently right across the street from Sam’s parents and right down the road from Jennifer’s! A week before Ellie’s due date, Jennifer experienced a hemorrhagic stroke, encouraging her and her husband to move closer to their parents and raise their daughter near a strong support system. Living so close to family and seeing the relationship between Ellie and her grandparents inspired Jennifer to write What the Hey Hey.
Jennifer attended James Madison University and earned her master of arts in teaching in 2018. She is a former fifth grade teacher who has transitioned into the construction industry. When she isn’t working or writing, Jennifer loves weekend coffee shop visits, spending time with family near the water or in her backyard around the firepit, and working on DIY projects.
Q: What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: May May has always had a few signature sayings, and my favorite by far is “What the Hey Hey!” Everyone needs a kid-friendly phrase for those moments that leave you totally baffled, right? Watching the bond between Ellie, May May, and Paw Paw grow brought the story—and that funny little saying—to life in such a natural way.
Q: As an author, what tips would you give anyone who wants to get into writing?
A: Write from the heart. Tell the story that means something to you—something that carries emotion, purpose, and pride. When it’s authentic, it shines through.
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: I can’t choose just one favorite—but give me a twisty mystery and I’m hooked. I love trying to piece everything together before the big reveal (even though I’m usually wrong!).
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: Yes—my daughter, Ellie (technically “Eleanor Margaret”). Her name is a special blend of family history—“Eleanor” from my husband’s maternal grandmother and “Margaret” from my own.
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: I love that there’s no single “right” way to do it. Every writer finds their own rhythm, and that freedom makes the process so rewarding.
Q: Do you believe that being a “good writer” is a developed skill or a natural talent?
A: Honestly, neither—I think it’s about perspective and connection. Good writing comes from being observant, reflective, and willing to share your voice with honesty.
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: “Do you believe in miracles? YES!” —Miracle. I get chills every time.
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: I would absolutely love to write another book! Right now, I’m just sorting through a few Ideas. They’re a little scattered, but I know the right story will pull it all together when the time is right.
Q: Is there an author you look up to, and why?
A: I can’t say there’s just one. Honestly, I’ve always looked up to my former fifth-grade students—they had such boundless imaginations and raw creativity. Some of the short stories and poems they wrote are still among my favorites to this day.
Q: If there were an apocalypse and you could only take five books into your doomsday bunker, what would they be?
A: Oof, narrowing it down to five is impossible! But if I had to, there’d definitely be a few good murder mysteries in the mix—which feels funny coming from someone who wrote a bright and cheerful children’s book.
Learn more about Jennifer Muse and her new children's book, What the Hey Hey, here. Coming soon November 18, 2025!