For author Penny Glover, storytelling begins with quiet observation, empathy, and an honest reflection of real life. Her novel Bitter Fruit was inspired by a reality she has witnessed repeatedly, where children are raised by their grandparents due to their parents’ struggles with drug addiction. Rather than centering the narrative on adults, Glover made a deliberate choice to focus on a young girl, believing that many young girls today might benefit from attention, guidance, and a strong sense of direction.
Although Bitter Fruit is a fictional novel, its emotional foundation is deeply rooted in lived experiences. Glover acknowledges that many families may be experiencing situations similar to those portrayed in her book. This authenticity has allowed readers from different walks of life to connect with the story on a personal level. Her audience, whom she affectionately calls her “Penny Kandies,” often expresses how the characters and themes reflect their own lives. These connections range from young girls to women within church communities, all finding meaning in the struggles and resilience depicted in the story.
The term “Penny Kandies” represents Glover’s understanding of her readership. Just like candy, readers have different tastes. Some may love the story deeply, while others might feel differently, and Glover embraces that diversity of response. What matters most to her is that the story reaches people honestly and gives them something to reflect on.
Glover’s creative process is intuitive and observant. She describes herself as someone who communicates best through writing rather than conversation. Her inspiration often comes from everyday moments, both small and significant. For example, she may observe a child interacting with her mother in a public place and later notice the same child with her grandmother. These subtle but powerful contrasts stay with her. When she returns home, turns on music, and allows herself to relax, her imagination begins to expand. From there, the story naturally takes shape, guided by memory, keen observation, and emotion.
When asked about challenges in her writing journey, Glover’s response is clear and confident. When her mind is focused on writing, there are generally no obstacles. Writing becomes a space where nothing interferes with her creativity. This sense of clarity allows her to remain fully present in the story she is telling and to write with purpose and flow.
At its core, Bitter Fruit is meant to offer readers a temporary escape. Glover hopes her “Penny Kandies” might leave their worries behind and step into her world, even if only for a short while. Her intention is not to overwhelm readers with hardship, but to offer a moment of understanding, comfort, and enjoyment. As she expresses through her personal philosophy and creative outlook, “Believing in myself. Believing in God.” This belief system guides both her writing and her connection with readers.
Glover wrote Bitter Fruit because she felt it was a story that needed to be told. Many people are shielded within their own realities and may not realize that others are facing similar trials and tribulations. Through her work, she offers an outside perspective that reassures readers they are not alone in their struggles.
An accomplished and award-winning author, Penny Glover has written seven novels and two books of poetry. Her most recent honor, the 2025 International Impact Author of the Year Award, reflects the lasting impact of her storytelling. Looking ahead, she is preparing to release another novel titled If Only You Knew and is currently working on her seventh stage play. With aspirations of seeing one of her books adapted into a film, Glover continues to write with her readers at the center of everything she does.