Natalie Garcia

Natalie Garcia asked Elinor Lipman:

What made you want to become an author?

Elinor Lipman Natalie--Sorry to be so late; I missed your question till now, so don't give up on me! I always wanted to write. In college I wrote satirical essays for the school newspaper, and after college had writing jobs, working mostly for company newsletters, then a gov. agency, then a teachers' union. I started seeing things around me in terms of possible fictional characters, so I signed up for a writing workshop (nights, weekly, adult ed). I started writing short stories, then submitting them. After my first book (1985) which was a story collection, in which I had 7 connected stories that added up to a novella, I decided I could and should try a novel. I haven't looked back. Thank you and again, apologies for being so late.

More Answered Questions

Alicia

Alicia asked Elinor Lipman:

Good Morning! I met you once many years ago at an evening book signing in Beverly Hills. I mentioned I had read Inn at Lake Devine more often than The Little House Books, Secret Garden and Little Princess combined. Have you ever contemplated writing a sequel to that book? Or did the original book have deleted scenes or chapters? I guess I am looking for a director's cut ;).

Diane

Diane asked Elinor Lipman:

I love all your books, I actually met you once at a book talk and I told you how much I loved the movie "And then She found Me". I am so happy you are writing another book, my sister and I were afraid you had retired. My favorite books are The Pursuit Of Alice Thrift and Isabel's Bed. Keep Writing!!!!?

Bea

Bea asked Elinor Lipman:

This is really not a question ? - just wanted you to know.... After enjoying your company at Turn of the Corkscrew in Rockville Centre, and the signing of On Turpentine Lane; I picked up a copy of I Can't Complain. So many people mentioned your essays, I had to read them. What a wonderful little book. I laughed and I cried. Thank you!! Now - on to On Turpentine Lane - can't wait! Bea

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