Author Name:
Valerie Foster
Book Titles:
- The Risk of Sorrow: Conversations with a Holocaust Survivor
- Dancing with a Demon
Website URL:
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riskofsorrow/
Instagram: @valeriefosterwrites
Link to book page on Amazon:
The Risk of Sorrow: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0615978223/
Dancing with a Demon: https://www.amazon.com/Dancing-Demon-Valerie-Foster/dp/0692809368/
What is your book about?
Helen Handler was just fifteen years-old when she stood alone in Auschwitz, later liberated by Russian soldiers, traveled through six countries, and became a successful businesswoman and community leader. Now eighty, she chooses an Irish-Catholic school teacher to preserve her final testament and how it shaped her life. Through their provocative conversations, Valerie Foster reveals her complex relationship with Helen. More than a Holocaust memoir, The Risk of Sorrow is an intimate look at two women of different generations and cultures who forged a profound friendship as they explored deep questions of faith, love, and survival.
What inspired you to write your book?
Holocaust survivor, Helen Handler, asked me to capture her dramatic story after I had invited her to speak to my high school classes and she felt a powerful bond with me.
If you have a business related to your book, tell us about it: I am a public speaker on a variety of topics, especially those related to my two books’ inspiring topics, as well as the writing process.
What is a typical day like for you?
With a second edition launching with a new publisher in January 2025, I am busy writing an Epilogue and editing our new Readers Guide, as well as preparing new promotional material, and polishing a wide range of presentation topics.
What do you most enjoy about what you do?
Whether journaling, working on a new short story, or just writing the (I hope) perfect thank-you note, writing gives voice to my very being. I love finding the connections with readers and other writers, despite how different we may seem. It’s when I feel most vital.
What are some favorite books you’d recommend to our readers?
My two favorite books on writing are On Writing by Stephen King, and A Low-Country Heart: Reflections on a Writing Life by Pat Conroy. And right now I’m reading The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohllenben. Fascinating!
What advice do you have to offer our readers?
Having taught writing and literature for many years, and being an author for ten, my best advice is to always seek a universal truth. That is, What’s important to say for yourself? and What’s important for others to hear? Oh, and wear comfortable shoes!
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Without knowing me, people might be surprised that I’m funny! My writing subjects have been very serious, but now I am trying to take my personal humor into writing form. It’s a challenge!
What’s next for you?
I am so excited about my book’s new edition coming out in January. I am starting to get very busy with pre-orders on the upcoming new Amazon site and connecting with new readers.
Since I’m in a virtual transition period, I urge readers to contact me with any questions or requests.
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