The Zoe Washington series is a series of middle grade novels by Janae Marks, consisting of the following books: From the Desk of Zoe Washington (2020) and On Air with Zoe Washington (2023). Several outlets included From the Desk of Zoe Washington in their list of the best children's books of 2020. It is also slated to be adapted into a film by Disney Branded Television.[1]
From the Desk of Zoe Washington was published January 14, 2020 by Katherine Tegen Books. It has also been adapted into an audiobook narrated by Bahni Turpin.[2]
Booklist's Shaunterria Owens highlights how "Marks tells this story of forgiveness and redemption in a way that will make sense to tween readers without being patronizing or overly complicated. The troubling ways race affects the characters ... will facilitate important conversations about racial profiling and incarceration rates for people of color. Fortunately, Marks’ capable storytelling and engaging characters also combine into a wondrous confection of a book, full of heart and hope and promise."[3]
Kirkus Reviews called the novel "an extraordinary, timely, must-read debut about love, family, friendship, and justice."[4]
Publishers Weekly writes, "Debut author Marks seamlessly weaves timely discussions about institutionalized racism into this uplifting and engaging story that packs an emotional punch. Zoe is a relatable tween, with friendship and familial frustrations that will resonate with readers."[5]
School Library Journal's Elizabeth Giles called the book "a smart, necessary, and hopeful middle grade debut that expertly balances a gentle, heartwarming tone with searing insight into systemic racism."[6] Giles recommended it for readers who enjoy Lisa Ramee’s A Good Kind of Trouble and Kekla Magoon’s The Season of Styx Malone.[6]
On August 18, 2021, Disney Branded Television announced they would be adapting From the Desk of Zoe Washington into a full-length film directed by Kerry Washington and Pilar Savone.[1][28] On November 17, 2022, author Janae Marks revealed that the film is still in pre-production and the screenwriter is still working on the script.[29]
In their review, Booklist's Aryssa Damron highlights how "Marks captures the exuberance and energy of early teens in her prose and delicately balances Zoe as a likable protagonist."[30]Kirkus Reviews called the novel "a thoughtful sequel that revisits an admirable protagonist and accessibly explores challenging subjects."[31]School Library Journal referred to it as "a delightful and inspiring read."[32]
