This reading group guide for Paper Angels includes a Q&A with author Jimmy Wayne. We hope that this conversation will enrich your conversation and increase your enjoyment of the book.

A Conversation with Jimmy Wayne

You have enjoyed success as a country musician and philanthropist. What inspired you to write a novel?

I wanted to write a book about paper angels, because I was a recipient of the angel tree program when I was a kid. I wanted to pay it forward and also raise awareness of how important it is that every child be taken care of during Christmas. Hopefully this book will inspire people to go a step further and continue helping these kids not only during Christmas but year-round

Could you describe your unique upbringing for some of the readers who may not be familiar with your background?

I spent the majority of my childhood in and out of foster care. My experiences parallel and/or pale in the light of so many people who grew up the same way. I receive those experiences as gifts. I'm thankful I can use those experiences to help others.


When the idea for Paper Angels first came to you, what writers and books did you turn to for guidance? How was your experience working with Travis Thrasher?

When Paper Angels came to me I didn't necessarily turn to any other books for reference or inspiration. I relied completely on my personal experience and my see more