News

Giving Voice: Narrative for Social Change Conference 

Next month, on June 14, I will be among the roundable speakers at the first New England Narrative Conference at New England College. This year's theme:  "Giving Voice: Narrative for Social Change." 

My topic: "Words from Our World: Writing the Immigrant Experience." Judging by the topics and publications of my fellow panelists (available online June 1), this will be a lively discussion.

Writing About Loss and Other Traumatic Events  

I have recently published two blog posts and an audio essay on the topic of expatriate bereavement -- the experience of losing a loved one and then returning to our adopted, overseas home.   Both blog posts link to my recently released audio essay, "Sanctuary."

"Sanctuary" is about loss and how it forces us to re-find our sense of place, belonging and home.

Podcasts, blog posts and audio essays  

Facing History and Ourselves

My post on St. Patrick's Day and American stereotypes was re-posted at the Los Angeles network of Facing History and Ourselves.  This piece is also included in the curriculum for "Learn to Question," a Facing History project at Boston Latin School.

As a writer and a teacher, it makes very proud to have my writing be part of our national conversations on race, ethnicity and stereotypes--and to be an inspiration for our young students.  

Going on Air

"Letters to my Immigrant Self" is my three-part series at WordPlaySound, a really spiffy audio literary magazine out of Chicago.   Have a listen to Letter 3 (at 41.34 in the podcast).  To lsten to the essays in chronological order, Letter 1 and Letter 2 are archived at WPS. 

Last year, The Drum podcast my essay, "Green Card," a piece about renewing our U.S. residency.  

 ... there are days when it seems that America is just this very large country set in motion, a highway safari of human souls who pass each other by in the middle lane."    

For a hard-copy version of "Green Card," visit Amoskeag 2012, the literary journal of Southern New Hampshire University, or download the Kindle version.

 Author visits, writers conferences and book clubs

Dance Lessons

I continue to do in-person book club and Skype visits for my latest novel, Dance Lessons.  

Last year, Dance Lessons was shortlisted for the Rubery International Book Awards, U.K., and the Indie Literary Awards. Buy your copy in hard copy or ebook.