gary goldstein | topshelfmerricklibrary

Happy Episode 150!! For this episode I had the absolute pleasure of hosting Gary Goldstein for his third book, Please Come to Boston. It’s a funny, nostalgic, and bittersweet look at first love at a time when exploring one’s sexual orientation and authentic self was riskier, more uncharted territory, yet with so many of the same defining issues that resonate today.

What a special episode, not only did we have a wonderful discussion about Please Come to Boston, but the insights Gary provided about the art of writing, how he writes, and his technique were incredibly illuminative. We discuss Gary’s authentic “own voice” that informs the character of Nicky, how Gary immersed himself in writing about 1970s Boston, we talk about Gary’s Long Island upbringing, book recommendations and more, Gary also gave us a sneak peek into the incredible things he’s working on next – and I cannot wait for each and every one. Gary, what a pleasure hosting you for this, my 150th episode!

Listeners, please don’t miss my interview with Gary on Episode 106. Once you listen, you’ll understand this reference: Fresno, I love you!)

Check out all of Gary’s books and screen treatments right here! Gary recommends: Colored Television by Danzy Senna; Long Island by Colm Toibin

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“Nate’s morning began like any other. So how could he possibly know that well before the day was over his life would never be the same?” ~The Mother I Never Had by Gary Goldstein.

Hook set! I loved talking with former Long Island native Gary Goldstein about his latest book, The Mother I Never Had featuring protagonist Nate Cronin. When Nick discovers that his father kept a life-changing secret from him, he has the daunting task of reevaluating everything he thought he knew about his own life. Gary details Nate’s journey of self-discovery in such sensitive and comprehensive ways, I couldn’t put the book down. As bestselling author Iris Rainer Dart says, “There are so many surprises and joys in this beautiful, human, well-told, emotionally rich story, that you won’t want it to end.” And how could you possibly disagree with the bestselling author of Beaches?

Gary and I could have spoken for hours, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to host him for this episode. Don’t miss this book and don’t miss Gary’s debut, The Last Birthday Party. Both are perfect for book discussions!

Gary Goldstein recommends: Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan; The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles; Oh WIlliam! by Elizabeth Strout; The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

Click here for Gary’s interview with Marilyn Simon Rothstein