Ask the Author: Meryl Ain
Answered Questions (2)
Meryl Ain
Thanks for your question, Sam. When I was writing "The Takeaway Men," I envisioned it as a book club read. I've challenged myself to meet virtually with 100 groups since it was published in August 2020 and I'm almost half-way there. I'm gratified that it has resonated with so many adult readers. Parents and educators have also suggested that it is also appropriate for a YA audience. And I'm thrilled to hear that. I think the questions I've raised in the book are important for all age groups: How do we treat those who are different? What is our responsibility to our fellow human beings? What do we do when we see evil -- speak out, look the other way, join in? What is the impact of secrets and lies on families and children?
Meryl Ain
My mother was my best friend and confidante. When she died after a brief illness, I was bereft and wondered how I could go on living without the everyday presence of my mom in my life. I looked for an optimistic book about going beyond mourning but couldn’t find one. I discussed this subject with friends and acquaintances who had also had losses, and found that there were a myriad of proactive ways others had embraced to keep the memories of their loved ones alive after they were gone. My mother was a big proponent of always having a project, so I decided to make this my project – discovering how to go beyond that wrenching, painful heartache to a happy and productive life. I convinced my brother (Arthur Fischman) and my husband (Stewart Ain) to join me in exploring this phenomenon in a book project. Thus, The Living Memories Project was conceived.
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