Last Friday, when I learned of the renewed investigation of Hillary Clinton’s emails, I knew I’d be spending Saturday knocking on doors. I wanted to do my part, and was eager to know if the latest news had changed anyone’s mind.  ..

Some years ago I heard the author Russell Banks speak at Cincinnati's Mercantile Library. He said something to the effect that 19^th century Americans who could read and write deeply valued their ability to do so. They believed they had something to say – that others wanted to hear – and they believed in their ability to say it.   ..

Here is how Month Away starts: I finished Cutting for Stone last night. One of the best novels I’ve ever read. My husband and son, now headed back to Cincinnati, are taking it back to the library. [Tonight. Right?] ..

I went to hear a classical pianist last week – my first live classical music in many, many years.  ..

Sometimes, the most important question is the one you don't ask. ..

When we sat down, two men at the bar were talking about Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and the Three-Fifths Compromise that made it possible for the U.S. Constitution to become ratified. I know this because I was right next to them and they were very loud. ..

Creating this website – writing about my work – has been my toughest project ever.  ..