Essays & Op-eds

The Stories Only Women Are Told

Lived experience trumps ideological certainty.
Slate.com

On how many false starts I made before finally figuring out how to write We Are All Good People Here…

I re-read this essay every time I'm tempted to throw in the towel with my latest book. Reminder: novels are ALWAYS a series of rewrites.
Vol. 1 Brooklyn

“Chasing the Goose”

I "glamp," sing old Baptist hymns with queer kids (while sloshing around pints), and am inspired by the Mama Bears.
The Bitter Southerner

Essay: How I learned to love my own (small) space after a divorce

Typically, one writes about one's fabulous, well-appointed house for such columns, but I was recently divorced and had learned just how much such spaces can cost you.
Atlanta Magazine

Essay: Take the Spotlight off Paula Deen and Turn Here Instead

If we really want to turn this public scandal into an opportunity for growth, we should take the spotlight off Ms. Deen. Turn away from the tearful confessionals and interviews. There are better southern cooks, like Edna Lewis, more deserving of our attention. Look toward them.
Huffpost