An Interview with Janet Zinn

I have had the good fortune of working as a psychotherapist in New York City. for over twenty-five years. I was a mental health first responder post-9/11, which solidified my expertise in trauma and loss. I’ve spoken to Fortune 100 companies, and to smaller companies and groups on trauma. When the pandemic started I was listening to clients and found a gap in how to handle the stress without accessing traditional supports. I started the blog, “In the Time of Coronavirus” which included self-care tips, along with mindfulness, creativity, humor, and empathy. I was encouraged by others to create a book, and that is how I came to write this book following Atmosphere Press’s acceptance.

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

My title was very easy since the book was taken from blog posts and the title was from my blog: In the Time of Coronavirus. However, finding a way to make it relevant for post-pandemic times, the subtitle took a bit longer, though I think it encapsulates what the book offers: “Reflecting on the Past to Embrace a Joyful Future.”

How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?

I was so excited. Working with Ronaldo Alves was a pleasure. He created a cover that reflected the essence of my book. It made the book a reality for me.

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

I actually had been working on another book on courage that was not going in a productive direction. I put down that book, thinking I already had text that was written. I had been encouraged by friends, colleagues, and others to publish a book from the blog posts. So I reread the posts during the weeks, months, and year and half, prior to re-entry without social distancing. I edited the posts so it would flow as a book, and I submitted it to Atmosphere Press. It was a great decision.

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

I came to New York City to be an actress. While I pursued acting for years getting bit parts or working off-off-Broadway, I earned a living working many jobs including bartender, office manager, proofreader, facilities assistant, hostess, professional shopper, and receptionist, to name some of the jobs. I left acting, going back to school for a social work degree at New York University. Upon graduation I started a private practice while working as a social worker for adolescents on the lower Eastside of Manhattan. I still enjoy attending the theater as an audience member.

What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?

I was so fortunate to get positive feedback and reviews of my book. It meant the world to me that those who had never met me, nor knew anything about me could appreciate something I had written.

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

Joni Mitchell, “Both Sides Now”

The Beatles, “Let It Be” & “Come Together”

Simon and Garfunkel, “59th Street Bridge Song”

Peggy Lee, “Is That All There Is?”

Billy Holiday, “Good Morning Heartache”

Steven Sondheim, “Being Alive”

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

One of the most important things for a reader to take away would be that they matter, that they can follow their unique path and it will support them in being true to themselves.

What new writing projects are you currently working on? Or, other projects that are not writing?

I will be returning to my book on courage, having learned so much from working with Atmosphere Press, and from having a book out in the world. It is a lifetime dream and I am so grateful.

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