Q&A with Amy Poeppel

 

Photo by George Baier IV

 

 

 

Amy Poeppel is the author of the new novel Far and Away. Her other books include The Sweet Spot. She lives in New York City, Germany, and Connecticut. 

 

Q: What inspired you to write Far and Away, and how did you create your characters Lucy and Greta?

 

A: I always enjoy building large ensemble casts and writing from multiple perspectives.

 

In the case of Far And Away, I decided to write a book in which two families (plus a neighbor or two) become entwined in complicated and ultimately satisfying ways. I wanted scandals, loads of miscommunication, and happy reinvention for every character in the book, which was both a challenge for me and a total joy.

 

As I got to know Lucy and Greta, my two main characters, through the drafting process, I realized that while they needed to be quite different from each other in many ways, they nevertheless had to share important beliefs and attitudes about life and family.

 

It took many, many drafts to figure out exactly who Lucy and Greta are, how they think, and what they would do in the many tricky situations I put them in.

 

Q: The writer Lynda Cohen Loigman called the book “a hilarious, laugh-out-loud romp that is also a fresh and insightful commentary on motherhood, marriage, and the pursuit of joy.” What do you think of that description?

 

A: Well, first let me say that I love Lynda Cohen Loigman! She writes beautiful, smart novels that are totally engrossing. If any readers haven’t had the pleasure of  reading The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern, The Matchmaker’s Gift, or The Two-Family House, please do! I highly recommend them!

 

And I love Lynda’s description of Far And Away. (Thank you, Lynda!) I wanted all the characters to have their deeply held ideas about parenting and marriage challenged, so that they can move forward and make positive changes. And making readers laugh-out-loud is always a happy moment for me.

 

Q: Why did you choose Dallas and Berlin as the book’s locations?

 

A: I love the idea of a house swap! When I was choosing cities, I decided to pick places where I’ve spent a lot of time and that I truly love. 

 

I was born in Dallas, Texas and lived there until I was 17. I love Dallas, and I visit my sister there every chance I get. Dallas has great food and the most wonderful people!

 

Next, I chose Berlin, Germany. I lived in Berlin for two years when my kids were young, and I return every chance I get. It’s a truly fabulous city – amazing museums and incredible architecture. My German language skills are terrible, so I’ve had many funny and difficult moments, even when trying to do the most basic things.

 

I was pretty sure when I started writing that the contrast between the two cities (and countries) would serve the story well. Both places are special to me, and I felt sure that I could bring out the differences in fun and unexpected ways.

 

Q: What do you hope readers take away from the novel?

 

A: I tried to convey that – in my view - travel and new experiences can lead to enormous change and growth. Almost every time I take a trip or try something new, I find I am better for it.

 

Otto, my German character who is perennially discontent and very set in his ways, is taken by surprise by the people he meets and the things he discovers in Texas, and over time he becomes more open-minded and more understanding … and happier.

 

Each character - even Mason in his biosphere! - learns to appreciate life and family and to embrace change.

 

Q: What are you working on now?

 

A: I am working on a new book that takes place in New York City! Stay tuned…

 

Q: Anything else we should know?

 

A: I have read so many good books recently! I highly recommend Culpability by Bruce Holsinger, The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, and Margo’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe.

 

--Interview with Deborah Kalb. Here's a previous Q&A with Amy Poeppel.