Strange Days

The closest experience I’ve had to the present Covoid-19 crisis is during the days of the 2011 Egyptian Revolution: the panic stocking up; not knowing what to expect, waiting for the other shoe to drop; the imposed isolation of curfew; the conflicting news stories. This, of course, is much worse. There is no safe haven anywhere in the world, and no potential upside. Worst of all, the unwitting fifth columnist in this war could be the stranger you never meet who touched the pharmacy checkout counter ahead of you, or your closest friend. At least, since I am writing a novel with Egypt 2011 as a setting, self isolation puts me in the right frame of mind!

Great day in Southern Pines.

Lee Smith and I were invited to speak about Mothers and Strangers at the Southern Pines Rotary Club luncheon, following which we took a stroll around the quaint downtown to read at the charming Country Bookshop, where we were greeted by enthusiastic fans and bookshop staff. A very pleasant day!

Reading in Southern Pines March 6, 2020

Lee Smith and I will be reading from Mothers and Strangers at The Country Bookstore in Southern Pines at 2 pm on March 6th.