Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a speech-language pathologist, or speech therapist, working in a nursing home. I came to this field after working as a writer/editor for nonprofits for over 20 years. I was looking for more meaningful work, and I certainly found it! Working in a nursing home, with patients who are struggling and often nearing end of life, presented many challenges I wasn’t prepared for when I first entered the field. I wrote “Beyond the Words: Exploring the Edges of Language and Life,” my debut book, as I was processing the experiences I was facing each day at work.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My book is called “Beyond the Words: Exploring the Edges of Language and Life.” It is a collection of nonfiction short stories inspired by my work as a speech-language pathologist in a nursing home. I started writing the stories shortly after starting my new career. Despite my education, I found it difficult to process the intense emotional challenges of my new work environment and writing was a great help with that. The stories grew into a book that chronicles my growth as a clinician, and also shines light on the sick and aging who reside within this corner of American healthcare that remains mostly hidden from public view.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love writing in public spaces. I often write at home, but definitely prefer the quiet bustle of a coffee shop or park bench to get my creativity going.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Lydia Davis is one of my favorite short story writers. I read a lot of poetry when I was younger and I think that influenced my voice quite a bit. I also enjoy listening to song lyrics and respect that art form so much for packing so much emotion into a short space.
What are you working on now?
My work in progress brings a wider lens to the healthcare system and also includes my personal experiences as a patient, having gone through thyroid and multiple kidney surgeries.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Word of mouth! Facebook, IG, Threads have all been very helpful, but readers passing along great recommendations has been the biggest boost for me so far.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing! I don’t know if my experience was typical, but what I found was that everything fell into place as long as I kept at the writing. That’s the most important thing. Not everything will be great, but it all gets you to the next step. The process is the most important thing, so just keep doing it and trusting that the rest will follow.
Author Websites and Profiles
Andrea Durbin Website
Andrea Durbin Amazon Profile
Andrea Durbin’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile