In the Spring of 2016, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by one of my favorite teachers at Saint Mary’s College– Alex Green. Although I was a little bit nervous, Alex is such a great interviewer that I got comfortable onstage with him immediately. We were there to talk about my recently published memoir, There Was a Fire Here. I had cast a very wide net and invited everyone I could think of. And even though the Golden State Warriors were in a playoff game that night, the turnout was wonderful. (I understood when a few people tiptoed out toward the end to catch the 4th quarter.)
I was afraid I would stumble over words, or say “um” and “you know” too much, but I’ve watched the video and I didn’t really do either of those things to excess. Alex kept the conversation moving and referenced many pivotal moments in the book. He is no stranger to the art of the interview: his career behind the mic is impressive, with podcasts and radio shows to his credit. He made the conversation flow, he spoke without notes, and asked many thought-provoking questions. We were serious, we kidded around a little, and I felt listened to. What I loved about this night was seeing friends and colleagues from all parts of my life: family, friends, neighbors, friends from high school, fellow writers, and even the architect who designed our rebuilt home.
When I think about this night now, it seems magical. I’m so grateful for my local independent bookstore, Great Good Place for Books, for sponsoring; Angel Cakes bakery for the fire-themed cupcakes, and Alex Green for making this a night to remember.
Afterward, I signed a lot of books and then floated home.
I could say more, but I’ll just leave this here in case you’d like to see for yourself.
(with thanks to Bruce Nye and Dianne Passen)
Risa, what fun! I haven’t watched the video yet, but I fully intend to! How great to be interviewed by an accomplished interviewer who makes you feel comfortable, asks good questions, and keeps the conversation moving. Love the idea of fire-themed cupcakes too. Thanks for sharing this magical night with us!
Thanks! I was lucky to have such a terrific interviewer!
Brava, Risa. I loved your book and now I can enjoy your video. Thanks!
Can’t wait to look at the video, Risa, and what a gift to be interviewed by someone so skilled.
Wow, tough to compete against the Warriors, but clearly, you had a great turn-out and turned in a great performance. Wonderful that you had a pro interview you. Also great that you have a video of it, so can look back and see just how wonderful you were. Can’t wait to watch it myself. And the cupcakes sound yummy and theme-appropriate. Well done!
Thanks, Betsy. It was fun to plan and very exciting to have so many people who were dear to me show up, Warriors notwithstanding!
I remember that evening very well. It was a great event and yes, Alex did a fine job interviewing you. You both did a fine job.
Thanks, Edward. This means a lot coming from an expert interviewer! And I’m so glad you came to my event.
Bravo Risa!
Great interview, great interviewer, and great interviewee!
Thank you!!