An Interview with Author Alice Rendon

Alice lives in Washington State. She has two sons and two grandchildren. She was married to John for thirty-three years. She loves movies, reading, music, and a great glass of wine.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

Losing my husband and feeling the need to share our story.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

The intense grief I experienced losing John and the need to expose the military and their treatment of veterans exposed to poisons on military bases in the US.

Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

For me it was easy. I had the title in mind before I wrote the book.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

“Stars” by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals.” When I Think of You” by Journey. “Give Up the Ghost” by Radiohead, and so many more that are in the book.

Describe your dream book cover.

A photo I took of John and our sons when they were young.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I have worked in social services, employment and training and in domestic violence and sexual assault.

I love animals (Chihuahuas in particular) and my last three Chihuahuas passed from old age in their late teens.

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

That it is possible to integrate grief and loss. That grief does not have a time limit. That you can fight a system, that I have never given up when I know the truth. I am determined and resilient like my husband was.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.