CC Robinson Explores the Intersection of Hope and Resistance in Her Dystopian Series, Divided
PHOTO: Award-winning author CC Robinson draws on her experiences as a doctor and pastor to craft inspiring dystopian tales of hope and courage.
Inspiring Through Real-World Experiences
CC Robinson‘s “Divided” series tackles societal division and reconciliation, blending authentic experiences with thought-provoking narratives that challenge young readers to embrace courage and hope.
CC Robinson stands out as a compelling storyteller, masterfully intertwining thrilling narratives with profound themes of courage, resilience, and hope. Her background as a medical doctor in post-civil war nations and a pastor in a diverse congregation enriches her writing, infusing it with authenticity drawn from real-world experiences of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of justice. Her young adult dystopian series, “Divided,” exemplifies her ability to challenge readers and inspire change.
In an interview originally featured in Reader’s House magazine, CC Robinson delves into the creative process behind “Divided,” a series set in a fractured future society divided along ethnic lines. The narrative explores the costs of division and highlights the strength required to resist oppression. Robinson’s inspiration for the series came from her vivid nightmares and real-life experiences, where she witnessed both the deep wounds inflicted by civil conflicts and the transformative power of reconciliation. With “Caged,” the eagerly awaited second installment of the tetralogy set for release in autumn 2025, she continues to provoke thought on themes of unity, identity, and the human spirit.
“My experience as a medical doctor and pastor pushes me to weave hope and courage through everything I write.” – CC Robinson
Robinson offers insights into her world-building process for the fictional Federated Republic of America, the strategic crafting of complex characters like Rose, and the meticulous research that grounds her stories in reality. Her aim is to inspire young readers to confront societal divisions and embrace racial reconciliation. “I want Divided to inspire young people to fight against impossible odds, except with racial reconciliation at its core,” she states.
Her experiences as a physician and pastor have profoundly influenced her ability to create relatable characters and their struggles. Having witnessed people overcome unimaginable challenges, she embeds themes of community strength and unwavering faith into her narratives. Robinson’s influences include early 2000s dystopian series like “Divergent,” “The Hunger Games,” and “Maze Runner,” as well as recent works from indie authors such as KA Riley, Claire Littlemore, and Emma Ellis.
For aspiring writers of dystopian fiction, Robinson advises exploring the societal issues that provoke them and crafting stories that center on these concerns. By building worlds around these issues and populating them with compelling characters, writers can create narratives that readers will eagerly devour.
CC Robinson is a visionary author whose work not only captivates but dares to envision a better future, challenging societal norms and inspiring hope in her audiences.
