30 Sep 2025 Author of the Month: Jennifer Case

By Susan L. Peterson

Author Jennifer Case brings a thoughtful lens to the health and wellness of new mothers in her latest book, “We Are Animals: On the Nature and Politics of Motherhood.” Drawing from her own journey into motherhood, Case shares her personal narrative with in-depth research to explore the physical, emotional and societal dimensions of maternal well-being.

Her book reveals a different description to the often-idealized account of new motherhood and touches on such topics as body image during pregnancy, the psychological toll of unintended pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum depression, breastfeeding struggles and societal expectations.

Reflecting on her own experiences, Case recalls the sense of isolation she felt. She hopes that her work offers both support and guidance for those navigating the early stages of parenting. Since the book’s release, she has heard from readers who say her writing helped them feel seen. “Women have reached out to tell me how relieved they were to know their thoughts and feelings weren’t abnormal — that others have felt the same,” she said. 

Her work also draws attention to alarming public health concerns. The United States has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, and one in five women develops a mental health issue related to pregnancy.

For Case, writing became a way to reclaim agency over her own mental health. She hopes her story will spark conversations and generate greater support for maternal wellness — an area she believes is too often neglected in both public discourse and policy.

Originally from Minnesota, Case came to Arkansas in 2015 to join the faculty at the University of Central Arkansas. Though she had never visited the state before her interview, the chance to teach creative nonfiction at both undergraduate and graduate levels was a perfect fit. She is now an associate professor in the Department of Film, Theatre, and Creative Writing.

Her first book, “Sawbill: A Search for Place” (2018), is a memoir exploring themes of home, nature and family. “It’s much more than a search for place,” one reviewer wrote. “It’s a longing for belonging, for a connection with land and community and a heartbreaking nostalgia for an idyllic childhood.”

Those themes of place, environment and connection continue to resonate throughout her writing. Her next book will examine caregiving in its many forms — how it’s practiced, how it’s perceived and how society values (or undervalues) this essential labor. She hopes to publish it in the fall of 2026.

Case lives in Conway with her husband, Kevin, who serves as development director at the Arkansas School for the Deaf and Blind, and their two children, Noella and Russell. The family enjoys outdoor activities, especially hiking, in Arkansas’s many state parks.

More information about her background, multiple essays on place and environment, and the awards she has garnered may be found on her website, jenniferlcase.com. Her books are available from Amazon and other online vendors.