Category Archives: Uncategorized

Many thanks to the @writerscenter for hosting this wonderful conversation with Jeannine Ouellette, author of the searing, critically-acclaimed debut memoir The Part That Burns. We talked about sacred storytelling, instinctual choices and stories, literature’s moral task, and the essential challenge … Continue reading →

One of my favorite reads this year is The Part That Burns, a lyrical, searing debut memoir by Jeannine Ouellette (Split/Lip Press, 2021), and so I’m thrilled to be in conversation with Jeannine next Wednesday, September 1st at 3pm PST. … Continue reading →

Many thanks to Ruth McKee for including me in Books Ireland Magazine’s wonderful podcast BURNING BOOKS. We chatted Emily Brontë, John Irving, Elizabeth Strout, and more. I also revealed which books, and what single treasured object, I would pull from … Continue reading →

I dispatched a small army of family to scour newsagents throughout Ireland for the latest issue of Hot Press Magazine and they did very well (particular thanks to Rosie Rohan). Hot Press was THE culture magazine of my teens and … Continue reading →

I’m interrupting my convalescence, and my birthday, to bring you what might be the shortest ever narration of an adulterous sex scene (from “Into the West” in In the Event of Contact). With thanks to KALW’s FRESH AIR, Lisa Morehouse, … Continue reading →

This is all the sweeter and more surreal because I loved SHUGGIE BAIN by Douglas Stuart (Grove Atlantic). Congratulations to all the winners.

My deep thanks to Jane Ciabattari and Literary Hub for including me in their stellar interview series. “In my work, my particular kingdoms, I have the power to invite readers into stories and situations they might ordinarily want to pull … Continue reading →

I remain grateful to Lori Narlock, founder of the Napa Valley Book Fest, for chatting with me about inspiration, obsession, imaginary friends, micro and macro aggressions, and going on with our wounds and our wonder. Thanks also to the wonderful … Continue reading →

I don’t like to watch myself back on video (does anybody?) but I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation on craft, process, storytelling, fixations, and life with Joy Lanzendorfer, author of the sweeping and gripping debut historical novel RIGHT BACK WHERE WE … Continue reading →