Join author Betsy Lerner, a publishing veteran with over 30 years of experience, as she dives into her debut novel, *Shred Sisters*. She discusses the blend of personal experiences and fiction, noting how Freud would enjoy analyzing her inspirations. Betsy offers pragmatic marketing strategies for aspiring authors and reflects on how mental health and familial ties influence storytelling. With insights into the publishing industry, she encourages writers to embrace their narratives, proving that authenticity is at the heart of compelling storytelling.
45:46
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Unexpected Novel
Betsy Lerner never planned to write a novel, focusing on screenwriting and poetry.
COVID spurred her to write Shred Sisters, incorporating her life experiences and past writing.
insights INSIGHT
Personal Connection to Mental Illness
Betsy Lerner was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 15, refusing medication for 15 years.
Her personal experience informs her portrayal of mental illness in Shred Sisters.
insights INSIGHT
Blending Fact and Fiction
Betsy Lerner identifies with both sisters in her novel, drawing from her own experiences.
Though fictionalized, her subconscious fueled many details, surprising even her.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Abigail Thomas's "Thinking About Memoir" is a valuable resource for aspiring and established memoirists. The book delves into the craft of memoir writing, offering guidance on structure, voice, and narrative techniques. Thomas shares her insights and experiences, providing practical advice and inspiration. She explores the ethical considerations of memoir writing, emphasizing the importance of honesty and responsibility. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in crafting a compelling and meaningful memoir.
I was told there'd be cake
essays
Sloane Crosley
This book is a collection of 15 essays that take readers through Sloane Crosley's hilarious and heartfelt experiences. The essays cover a wide range of topics, including her childhood in the suburbs, her job as a publicist, and various quirky incidents from her adult life in New York City. The book is praised for its witty and entertaining style, often compared to the works of David Sedaris and Sarah Vowell. It was a New York Times best seller and a finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor.
Forest for the trees
Forest for the trees
Michael DeJong
Visual Thinking
Rudolf Arnheim
All Fours
Miranda July
Miranda July's "All Fours" is a poignant and unconventional novel that explores themes of aging, mortality, and the complexities of human connection. The narrative unfolds through the experiences of an unnamed narrator grappling with her changing body and relationships. July's writing style is characterized by its intimate and often humorous approach to profound subjects. The book delves into the challenges of intergenerational friendships and the societal obsession with youth. Ultimately, "All Fours" offers a reflective and empathetic portrayal of the human experience.
The Bluest Eye
Toni Morrison
Set in Lorain, Ohio, during the Great Depression, 'The Bluest Eye' tells the story of Pecola Breedlove, an eleven-year-old African American girl who desperately wants blue eyes, believing they will make her more beautiful and accepted according to white cultural standards. The novel explores themes of race, class, and beauty standards, highlighting the destructive impact of internalized racism and societal pressures on Pecola and her family. Through a non-linear narrative and shifting perspectives, Morrison critiques the systemic racism and social stratification that contribute to Pecola's tragic downfall.
Shred Sisters
Betsy Lerner
Shred Sisters is an intimate and bittersweet story that spans two decades, exploring the fierce complexities of sisterhood, mental health, loss, and love. The novel follows the lives of Olivia and Amy Shred, sisters bound by an inextricable bond despite the challenges posed by Olivia's mental illness and unpredictable behavior.
The Other Black Girl
Zakiya Dalila Harris
An American Marriage
Tayari Jones
Sean Crisden
Eisa Davis
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones tells the story of Roy and Celestial, a young African-American couple living in Atlanta. Their lives are torn apart when Roy is wrongfully convicted of a crime he did not commit. The novel explores the complexities of marriage, racial injustice, and personal identity through their experiences. It is a powerful exploration of love, loyalty, and the human impact of systemic injustices.
This week we’re featuring longtime agent and publishing pro Betsy Lerner on her debut novel, Shred Sisters. We talk about being an industry insider and whether that gives you a leg up, as well as the old adage to write what you know. Betsy shares with us how her lived experience shows up in this book, noting that Freud would have a field day—and before it’s all over, she offers generous and tactical marketing tips for authors. This episode has got it all!
On this week’s Substackin, we’re giving a shoutout to Sub Club, which you can and should subscribe to at https://subclub.substack.com. Sub Club offers many great resources for writers—on where to submit, who's looking for submissions, and best practices for getting your work out into the world. Highly recommended resource for writers!
Memoir Nation 
