Featuring Samantha Picaro, author of Recipe for Confidence

1. Let’s start with the basics! Can you tell us a little about Recipe for Confidence and what inspired you to write this story?

It follows a teen named Bryn who builds a graphic design portfolio while working at her aunt’s new bakery, which sells cakes celebrating not just success but setbacks. I was inspired by my struggles with low self-esteem from what I perceived as constant “failures” in my life, and some stemming from internalized ableism due to being autistic with anxiety disorder. I wanted to remind readers, and myself, that society puts too much pressure on us to avoid failure rather than learning from it and being inspired by it.

2. Confidence is such a relatable theme for teens (and adults, too!). What do you hope readers—especially young readers—take away from your main character’s journey?

As I said in question 1, I hope readers take away that setbacks are an inevitable part of life and that people in society are pressured to avoid them and feel ashamed when they do happen. I hope readers learn, like Bryn, and like me, that it is okay to have setbacks, and that perfection is just a conception, and that is all it will ever be. Also, Bryn learns how to tell people how she really feels rather than people pleasing and practicing toxic positivity.

3. Graphic design meets baking—such a unique combo! How did you come up with that blend of creativity for your story? Do you share either of those passions yourself?

I’m not a graphic designer, although I have experience creating flyers and social media posts for my author stuff and for work. I love baking, although I enjoy the eating part more than the baking part.

4. YA contemporaries often balance lighthearted moments with deeper emotions. How did you approach weaving humor, heart, and challenges together in this book?

Real life is a blend of lighthearted moments and serious moments. I remembered what I read from well-written books and watched from well-written movies and TV shows that balance these aspects well. For really serious moments, I left humor out, although humor could be experienced after a particular scene given enough time. Even sad and frustrating moments were ultimately built on heart due to the passion behind certain actions and words, such as Bryn finally telling her parents how she really feels about their inability to move past the closing of their restaurant.

5. Your protagonist builds confidence by helping others. How important was it for you to showcase friendship, family, and community in your story?

Ultimately, the most important love is self-love but support from loved ones is crucial, too. Romance is still seen as the ultimate type of love, and, as an aromantic woman, I feel the need to show readers that is far from the only type of love, and it does not need to be valued above other types of relationships. Many teens face struggles relating to family, so I showed a family that certainly has its problems but will ultimately show up for each other when it matters most. Friendships aren’t perfect either but, like family, growth is possible, and true friends navigate the roadblocks.

6. If you could describe Recipe for Confidence in three words (like a “recipe card” for the book), what would they be? Cozy, heartwarming, “sweet”.
   
   

7. Behind the Author: What drew you to writing YA contemporary in the first place, and do you see yourself exploring other genres in the future?

I like YA Contemporary, especially where romance isn’t the main focus and all-too-real issues are incorporated into the central themes of a book. For example, I incorporate themes of confidence and learning to trust other people into my books. I see myself writing cozy fantasy. In fact, I am working on a draft for a cozy fantasy.

8. Can you share a favorite scene or line from the book (without spoilers!) that really captures the heart of the story?

One scene is where Lana, Bryn’s aunt, shares her idea for the Setback Cakes, the cakes celebrating setbacks. Bryn is skeptical of the idea but is completely onboard when Lana explains why they are necessary: the pressure to be perfect and learning to be ashamed of setbacks. Bryn and her family have encountered setbacks throughout their lives, and Bryn is inspired to help her aunt promote these cakes due to her desire to move on and regain confidence.

9. Fun one! If your book were turned into a movie or Netflix series, who would you cast as your main character and why?

I am not sure! This question is always too hard.

10. What has been your favorite part of connecting with readers since publishing Recipe for Confidence?

I enjoy making social media posts, not just for my own books but to recommend other books because reading is my passion. Reading is what led to my passion for writing, after all. It also fits my passion to put a spotlight on books that are self-published and/or deserve to be more famous.

11. Where can readers find you online, and do you have any upcoming projects we should keep an eye out for?

Everyone can find me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and BlueSky. My website is www.samanthapicarowrites.com.

My next book is Hot Chocolate and Holiday Mishaps, my first holiday novel. It comes out November 3, so stay tuned! I’m just saying holiday books make good gifts.