Translating Voltaire for my backyard: “We must cultivate our garden,” feels bossy and rife with certitude. I prefer, “Let us tend our garden.” Read more.
On Writing & Reading
Here you'll find author profiles as well as mini – and not-so-mini – book reviews. I’m a writer who loves to talk about writing, so if you like to write I hope you’ll stop by now and then for some writing tips and to chat about the writing life.
Post Roe v. Wade: Five Women Talk About How the Abortion Issue Impacted Their Lives
Five women writers reflect on their experiences with abortion before, during and post Roe v. Wade at an upcoming event in San Francisco. Read more.
A Week With Fellow Writers — Surprising Me With Gifts
Drumroll! I’ve Just Written My 600th Blog Post.
Here’s my 600th post on a blog that’s seen me through births, deaths, a major house remodel, a pandemic, and some dark nights of the soul. Read more.
Joyce Maynard — Famous Author, Terrific Teacher
If you’re thinking about taking a writing class with Joyce Maynard, I’d say go for it — on your laptop or at Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. Read more.
Writing Tips From a Famous Author — I Put on My Best Socks to Get Them
I’ve got years of writing experience to my credit. Why in the world would I spiff myself up to take a writing class from that famous author? Read more.
Polarization in America: Here’s Something You Can Do About It
This book is one writer’s response to polarization in America. She asks you to give it to someone who thinks like you — and someone who doesn’t. Read more.