In my novel What’s Left, they aren’t a typical Greek-American family. Not exactly. But they’re not like Cassia’s classmates’ homes, either.
How would you say yours differs from a “normal” family?
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Expectations of normal?
Tag: Literature
Sometimes a rare adult really does listen
After playing a central role in two previous novels, Nita returns in What’s Left, where she develops a special bond with her niece, once Cassia reaches adolescence.
When you were younger, was there an adult you admired who never looked down to you because you were “just a kid”?
Thinking about first names, especially
Cassia, the voice of my novel What’s Left, is more formally named Acacia. I think it fits her to a T.
Are there any combinations of first name and diminutive or nickname in your circles you especially like?
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Care to boogie?
In my novel What’s Left, Cassia’s family turns an old church into a hot music center. It seemed like a natural extension from their restaurant.
Where do you go to hear live music?
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Moving on in your life, hopefully to something better
In my novel What’s Left, Cassia’s father is from Davenport, Iowa. Maybe via Tibet, in a way. And later, Cassia makes her own move.
What’s your biggest relocation been from your own hometown?
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Sometimes work serves as a rudder
The skills Aristotle gains in the shipyard in the old country allow him to navigate through a lifetime in my novel What’s Left.
What did your grandfathers do for a living?
As one more element in the story
Gypsies inspire more than the hippie spirit as my novel What’s Left unfolds. In fact, boho, from bohemian, derives as a synonym for the Romani, or Roma, people. And, yes, they’ve been populous in Greece.
Have you ever by fascinated by Gypsies? What’s most intrigued you?
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Remember, she’s passionate in everything
In my novel What’s Left, Cassia’s aunt Pia reintroduces the family to its ancient roots and traditions. When she first shows up on the scene, nobody has any reason to suspect to suspect she’ll do that. She’d been the wild hippie chick.
In your circles, who’s most passionate about the Old Ways?
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Don’t watch TV!
Just get lost in a book! Any book!
About the practice of intense meditation
Answers to some of the questions about Cassia’s father’s reasons for intensely pursuing Tibetan Buddhism, first encountered in my Freakin’ Free Spirits novels, can be found in Yoga Bootcamp, my story about eight young American yogis living on a former farm in the mountains. While each student is at a different stage of discovery, their widely divergent motivations still lead to common struggles and victories. Nothing is easy, but the lessons are priceless.
Do you practice meditation? How about yoga exercises, chanting, or Zen? Any other spiritual exercises you care to discuss?
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Jnana's Red Barn 