The Friday Five!
December 12, 2025
A couple of months ago, my then 89 year old dad fell at his retirement community. I got a call that he was in the hospital and I needed to go to the ER. He’s okay. But that one event kicked off what is now weeks of hospital visits and moves from independent living to assisted and skilled nursing. These are all words you may not be acquainted with. But if you know, you know. We celebrated his 90th in his new room, all of us together. His world has changed, as has mine. You never know what you can do until you have to do it. And despite all the fear and uncertainty, I am so glad I am here to do this.
In other news (and much happier!) I just returned from a trip to NYC, where I had my first meeting with my new publisher, Simon and Schuster. Regular readers of this Substack will remember that for a while there I wasn’t even sure I’d publish again. And now I have this new book and this amazing team, which is planning the MOST FUN stuff for launch. And there will be a TOUR! I can’t wait to share all the details with all of you who stuck by me during some serious doubtful days. Guys: this is going to be a blast.
Also while in New York, my daughter and I saw two shows: Chess and Oh, Mary! Lea Michele was amazing in Chess, although I had a bit of trouble following the story, if I’m honest. Maybe that’s just me? And Oh, Mary! was fantastic, bawdy and hilarious. Even more amazing, we went to the stage door and Jane Krakowski (!!!!!!) came out and signed my daughter’s Playbill. She was just so lovely and gracious, although I was too starstruck to do much but stand there and gape. Also I cannot say enough about the incredible Jenn Harris who, when I asked if she had any advice for someone who had a mock audition the next day, proceeded to talk to my daughter for at least ten minutes. She gave such good advice and her kindness just left me speechless. She probably won’t ever see this, but just in case: THANK YOU.
I have read 94 books this year. I know! It’s so insane and of course now I am determined to get to 100 before the new year begins. Recent highlights: Severance by Ling Ma (not at all related to the TV show, fans of Station Eleven MUST read), Heartwood by Amity Gaige (I tore through it). Also, if you love mystery AND Mom life: All the Other Mothers Hate me by Sarah Harman and Mean Moms by Emma Rosenblum. Currently I am reading Immaculate Conception by Ling Ling Huang, which is fantastic. After that I will have five to go. Can I do it? (Honestly, I am not sure.) Stay tuned.
Finally, as this year ends, I want to wish you all happiness and health for the holidays and the entire year to come. 2025 has been full of highs, lows and all the days in between. Thank you for reading this Substack through it all. I’ll see you in 2026! Until then, take good care. And because it is the season, here's my favorite holiday song, by Chapel Hill’s own Squirrel Nut Zippers. Turn it up!
Love this! Every time you post, doesn't matter if there has been months in between, it's a must read and something to look forward too. I've been with you since I was a teen--now I'm 40 and can't wait for your next book to publish--it's nostalgic but it's also just consistently good writing. Love ya Sarah!
❤️