Shara Moon is the author of the new novel Let Us March On, which focuses on the life of Elizabeth "Lizzie" McDuffie, who worked in the White House during Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency. Moon is a former writing instructor.
Q: What inspired you to write Let Us March On, and how did you learn about Lizzie McDuffie’s role in the White House?
A: I actually learned about Lizzie from research I was doing for another book I was working on. I was looking for someone that had some influence in the White House, particularly with the president or first lady, but who was also approachable and sympathetic to the issues of African Americans.
An author friend of mine (Kaia Alderson, author of Sisters in Arms) sent me an article of Mrs. Elizabeth McDuffie and the rest is history!
Q: How did you research the novel, and what did you learn that especially surprised you?
A: I got the opportunity to sit in the Robert W. Woodruff archive library in Atlanta and comb through all of the McDuffie letters and artifacts. I also visited the Little White House in Warm Springs and got a chance to tour the home, guest, and servants quarters. It was all a fascinating experience.
I learned so much on that research trip, but what especially surprised me was how beloved Lizzie was from family, friends, and strangers alike. The amount of condolences that were sent to her after her husband’s death and then later her mother’s was heartwarming to see.
There were also multiple correspondents from Eleanor Roosevelt after they all left the White House that proved what a close friendship they had.
Q: The writer Monica Kilgore said of the book, “Moon’s storytelling masterfully brings to life Elizabeth McDuffie’s challenges and achievements within a world struggling with racism and hate, as well as her personal fears and frustrations with the sluggish tides of change.” What do you think of that description?
A: I think it sums up beautifully who Lizzie was. We all know change doesn’t happen overnight, and even during Lizzie’s time in the White House there were probably more failed efforts than there were successes. But she never stopped, and she never lost hope.
As President Lincoln once said: “I am a slow walker, but I never walk back.” I think the hope for Lizzie–and what should ultimately be our goal–is to never go backward.
Q: What do you see as Elizabeth McDuffie’s legacy today? What do you think she would make of today’s world?
A: First, I think she would be fascinated by social media LOL! She was a very social person and loved entertaining, so I totally think she would have been a successful influencer.
With that said, I also think she would see a country that is still healing, still trying to fight for what’s right. I can only hope that her legacy of activism and kindness will inspire many to do their part in making our country a great–and safe–place for ALL.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I'm working on my next historical fiction novel, a post-WW1 story about a mother and widow fighting to honor the fallen soldier they both loved and lost. This story was the book that actually sparked Lizzie McDuffie’s story and takes place during FDR’s presidency! Visit my website (www.sharamoon.com) for more on that.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: Yes! Please sign up for my newsletter (https://sharamoon.myflodesk.com/signup) to learn more about me and my books.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
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