Writer Tom McKone called me last week for a CALL IT MADNESS interview. We spoke for longer than either of us had expected, as I leaned over my back porch railings. His review ran in yesterday’s The Bridge. McKone is my ideal reader: curious, thoughtful, precise. Writing a book requires years—years of labor that has zero relevance to a time clock; labor that demands writing through doubt and kismet; labor that gleans from ebullience, nihilism, and that broad plain of gray uncertainty. There’s a splash when a book is released, a flurry, but the goal? The real desire? Have a reader sink into a hammock or lean against a swaying subway wall and read.
An excerpt follows.
“Our memories, where and when we’re born, and our family, social environment, and economic situation can shape who we are,” Stanciu said. Mentioning the work of mythologist Joseph Campbell, she said it is very hard to “step out of that repetition of the past,” especially when that past is burdened with poverty and alcohol.
“One of the things I hope people get out of this book is the ability to ask questions (and) to be curious,” she said. “Why do people act the way they do? What do I not understand about them — both when they behave well and when they behave in infuriating ways? I think it’s always been a relevant question, but it’s super relevant right now — not to see each other in two-dimensional ways, but to really look into the longevity of our stories.”
Stony Soil Vermont 
Wonderful review- can’t wait to get it. You’ve probably heard this before but I’ll mention it anyway: You have written about my family. So relatable- my sister and I have conversations regarding the hope and curiosity you mention. Generational work and the ability to cultivate more compassion for those whose behaviors astound us. Many times, my own!
I am very glad to read this comment. I hope you love CALL IT MADNESS. Family and more family!
Congratulations on the publication of the book.
Thank you! Always a joy to have a book arrive in the world!
I just began reading this book and finding that a time to become more pensive is aiding becoming more aware of your story. I’m usually reading a book quickly yet I’m allowing your words to settle more deeply. Excellent book you have shared with us. john
I so appreciate these lines. Thank you!! 💕
I’m very proud of you! 💗
Some of the characters drove me a little crazy, but I could see them as real people, and even pictured Trina as a woman I know from Belvedere: edgy, but very sweet below the surface, foul mouth, jalopy Subaru, overalls… yep, it was her. 😂
💕Naturally, a Subaru had to drive into a Vermont novel.