Ask the Author: Sharon Hart-Green
Answered Questions (13)
Sharon Hart-Green
Thanks for the question, Alice! Since I have a doctorate in Judaic Studies (and have taught it for over 20 years), I have been immersed in the study of Jewish history and literature for most of my adult life. That probably explains why I did not need to do a great deal of research to write my debut novel Come Back for Me. Of course, I was vigilant about getting small details right, which required some fact checking, but on the whole, I wrote the book from the heart.
Sharon Hart-Green
Many people ask me that question (which I take as a compliment!), since I am glad that the story rings true to readers. However, the story is not based on my own family's history. What I can say however is that I have been closely acquainted with many Holocaust survivors and their children, so I believe that I have absorbed many of their stories over the years. The novel draws on some of their experiences, but not on any one individual story.
Sharon Hart-Green
Yes, I read it several months ago. Her writing is breathtaking!
Sharon Hart-Green
That's a difficult question to answer. The book was written from the perspective of a secular Jewish woman who becomes increasingly drawn to living an Orthodix Jewish life. I'm sure it would be interesting for your friend to read, but it might not provide the kinds of answers she is seeking. A book like BETWEEN GODS by Alison Pick might reflect this woman's experience more closely. Hope this is helpful!
Sharon Hart-Green
It's so gratifying to hear about all the positive responses to COME BACK FOR ME! You asked about whether I am writing a new book: yes, I am and I hope to make more progress on it in the coming year. Right now, I've been very busy traveling and giving book talks, so it's been hard to get back to it. But I hope to return to the new book soon!
Sharon Hart-Green
Hi Mindy,
I certainly understand your dilemma, as I struggled with similar issues while I raised 3 kids and taught at a university. I don't think that anyone (other than you) can answer the question of whether or not it's a realistic goal to become a writer. I certainly know that it's hard. I would suggest that you set aside an hour or so every day to write and see how it goes. It's amazing how much you can accomplish if you set yourself a limited goal and stick to it. Best of luck!
I certainly understand your dilemma, as I struggled with similar issues while I raised 3 kids and taught at a university. I don't think that anyone (other than you) can answer the question of whether or not it's a realistic goal to become a writer. I certainly know that it's hard. I would suggest that you set aside an hour or so every day to write and see how it goes. It's amazing how much you can accomplish if you set yourself a limited goal and stick to it. Best of luck!
Sharon Hart-Green
The Patriots by Sana Krasikov; Between Them by Richard Ford; Hourglass by Dani Shapiro
Sharon Hart-Green
Nice to hear from you, Marjorie, and glad to hear that my books intrigue you. I haven't read Hidden Figures, so I'm unable to comment on it. Let me know if you recommend reading it!
Sharon Hart-Green
My grandfather was born in Belarus, the only son in a large family of girls. And as far as anyone knows, none of his siblings survived World War II--other than one sister who had immigrated to Argentina with her husband early in the century. Since my grandfather moved to Canada in the 1920s, he lost contact with his one surviving sister in Argentina. What happened to her? Are her descendants still living in South America? Are my Argentinian cousins wondering about their missing relatives just as I am wondering about them? Would a search for my South American family reveal things about my ancestors that I do not know?
Sharon Hart-Green
I love the interplay between Elizabeth and Darcy in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Despite their social and economic differences, they are intellectual equals who show the reader that intelligence and temperament are greater indicators of suitability than anything else.
Sharon Hart-Green
The best thing about being a writer is being able to channel your unconscious thoughts and desires into something conscious and rational. The page is a kind of meeting place for the two to merge, and is a bit like magic!
Sharon Hart-Green
When I get stuck, I make a deal with myself: sit down and write one line. Usually, I find that the one line leads to two or three or even a whole page of writing!
Sharon Hart-Green
Hi J. A.--Thanks so much for the invitation. I'll be out of town that weekend, so won't be able to attend. Best of luck with the launch!
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