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Andrea Stein x Writer's Corner Wednesday

Updated: Dec 20, 2024


This week, I am speaking with Andrea Stein, the author of the 2022 novel Typecast, about her latest work, Dear Eliza. This novel delves into a family's secrets that begin to unravel when the main character, Eliza, receives an unexpected letter from her long-deceased mother. Continue reading for our insightful conversation on authorship, the unique challenges currently facing Jewish writers, and dramatic shivas.


Q. Tell me a little bit about your journey to authorship. What were some of the biggest hurdles you faced, and how did you keep going when faced with difficulties and disappointment? 


A. I’ve been writing stories since I was a very little girl, but probably one of the biggest hurdles I faced when I was younger was being willing to share my work with others.  Opening yourself up for criticism in that way can be daunting!  My road to publication for Typecast was also a long one. It was hard to receive so many kind, “I loved it, but…” rejections.  But I truly believed in the book, which was what kept me going.  And, I started writing Dear Eliza while Typecast was still on submission, which gave me a different story and set of characters to focus on.


Q. Was the editing and publishing process different for Dear Eliza than it was for Typecast? How does writing a second published novel compare to writing the first? 


A. I learned a huge amount while writing Typecast and working with a developmental editor, and I was able to take that into writing Dear Eliza.  As a result, the differences between first draft and finished book were much more limited with Dear Eliza than they had been with Typecast.  I also was able to bring Dear Eliza directly to my publisher, which made the road to publishing that much smoother. 


Q. One of my favorite things about Dear Eliza is how distinct the novel's setting is. Eliza's movements around NYC are so clearly mapped out throughout the novel that the city practically becomes a character itself. Can you say a little bit about the role the setting plays in the novel (and also, I'd argue, into Eliza's characterization)?


A. I loved spending time with Eliza in New York City, and I love hearing that the city practically feels like a character itself.  It makes me think fondly of “When Harry Met Sally,” in which Manhattan is such a part of the story.  As for the role the setting plays in Dear Eliza, I think there’s something to be said about the old song, “if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.”  Eliza has an image of herself as a screw-up who can’t handle life, but that’s not really who she is. Seeing her navigate life in New York City helps demonstrate that she is not perceiving herself and her capabilities clearly.


Q.  Have you ever been to a shiva as dramatic as the one Eliza attends at her brother's house? 


A. Definitely not, and I’ve been to quite a few!  I will say that, at those I’ve attended to support friends, I’ve been honored to be given a window into their family stories, even if none were so jaw-dropping.


Q. How would you describe the publishing world's attitude toward Jewish stories at this particular moment? Have you had any notable experiences (good or bad) related to you or your characters' Jewishness? 


A. I was delighted and surprised this past summer that Typecast was featured as a “Summer Reading Schmooze” by the Center for Jewish History.  The reviewer wrote, “Jewishness is a given, not a source of angst.”  I’ve had similar feedback from readers who have expressed appreciation at seeing characters who just are Jewish – which is how I feel about my own Jewishness.  It’s as much a part of me as my height or my eye color.  That said, it has been a challenging moment for Jewish stories.  As a result, it is more important than ever that we continue telling, reading, and supporting these stories.


Q. What is the best advice (on writing, publishing, pitching, etc.) that you've ever been given? 


A. “Writers write.”  When there’s a story percolating in your brain, it can be scary to sit down and try to get it on paper—or on your computer screen!  But the only way to become a better writer is to keep writing.  When I’m in the midst of a project, I commit to writing every day, whether or not I “feel” like it.  It’s the only way to keep the momentum going and keep my characters alive.  Waiting for your “muse” will be a long wait if you don’t help it along by doing the work.


Click HERE for more about Andrea, Dear Eliza, and to purchase a copy of the book!


For more of my book reviews and conversations with authors, find me on Instagram @leahshewrote


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