Courtney Preiss discusses her novel 'Welcome Home Caroline Kline' with themes of returning home, nostalgia, and personal transformations. The podcast explores cosmic forces, childhood memories, and the bittersweet process of moving forward. An intriguing discussion on writing processes, community support, and the impact of COVID on creativity.
Mint Mobile innovates with a reverse auctioneer for lower rates, while PrettyLitter offers health-monitoring cat litter.
Courtney Preiss blends heartbreak and humor in 'Welcome Home, Caroline Kline,' emphasizing accountability and writer communities.
Deep dives
Introduction of Mint Mobile and PrettyLitter
Facing rising prices amidst inflation, Mint Mobile introduces a reverse auctioneer to lower their rates, offering a premium wireless service. Meanwhile, PrettyLitter, designed by the founder in collaboration with scientists and veterinarians, presents a crystal formula for cat litter that provides enhanced odor control and health monitoring capabilities.
Sponsorship by Jay McLachlan
The podcast episode is sponsored by Jay McLachlan, a lifestyle brand known for its style and community connection. The brand supports local communities through philanthropic events and offers chic, wrinkle-free clothing options, including dresses and cashmere sweaters, with a special 20% discount for new customers using the code Zibi20.
Author Spotlight and Novel Discussion
Courtney Priest, author of 'Welcome Home Caroline Klein,' joins the podcast to discuss her debut novel. The story follows Caroline facing challenges in New York and returning to her hometown, intertwining heartbreak and humor. Priest draws inspiration from personal experiences, including a poignant moment at her father's softball game, turning fears and heartbreak into comedic art in her writing.
Writing Process and Future Projects
Priest shares insights on her writing journey, emphasizing the importance of accountability and consistency in pursuing creative projects. She highlights the role of writer communities in providing understanding and support. Having secured a two-book deal with Putnam, Priest is currently working on her second novel, featuring complex characters and humorous storytelling elements.
Debut author Courtney Preiss joins Zibby to discuss WELCOME HOME, CAROLINE KLEIN, a warm, big-hearted, laugh-out-loud novel about a newly single young woman who reluctantly returns to her Jersey Shore hometown after her father has a bad fall—not to be his caretaker, but to replace him in his local men’s softball league. Courtney talks about her protagonist, Caroline, whose life unravels with the loss of her job, apartment, and boyfriend in rapid succession. She delves into themes of identity, love, heartbreak, mischances, what-ifs, and returning home. Finally, she reflects on her path to writing, the role of humor in her life, navigating the publishing industry, and the importance of finding community as a writer.