1. What is the name of the book and when was it published?
The name of the book is That Crazy Little Thing, and it was published in June of 2013.
2. What’s the book’s first line?
The first line – well, two lines – are, “I’m not a morning person. Neurologically speaking, you may as well talk to the toaster if you want a lively companion before ten a.m.”
3. What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
This book is about discovering all the places where love might be hiding in your life, and how important it is to laugh as you cry, and never give up.
4. What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
I was contacted by an agent when I posted a blog about a particularly heart-wrenching moment in my life. The agent suggested a memoir, which turned into this novel. Once I started writing, the fictional narrator ran off with the story. I feel almost guilty taking credit for it – she was so insistent that I get it all down.
5. What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
What strikes me most about the main character – the narrator of the story – is her earnestness and sense of humor. She faces some pretty daunting challenges, and just rolls up her sleeves and forges in. She reminds me of Shirley MacLaine’s Aurora Greenway in Terms of Endearment, with a dash of Sandra Bullock’s character in Gravity.
6. What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
Anyone who understands that laughter and sadness are not mutually exclusive will feel validated reading this. Anyone who was raised Catholic, has raised a teenage daughter, has lost someone to illness and/or who has despaired at love will appreciate this story. Anyone who wants to stay optimistic about life and love should read this book.