Events & Programs

A conversation with Susie Morgenstern, author of children’s books and ‘The Aspiring Writer’s Journal.’

Nothing predestined me to become a French children’s writer. Born in Newark, New Jersey (like Philip Roth and Paul Auster!), I grew up in a small town called Belleville and didn’t even know that was French for "beautiful town" (which it wasn't!). In fact, I didn’t even know that France existed. In school we filled in endless maps of the states and capitals of the U.S.A. but never crossed the borders.

I probably started writing because it was the only way to get a word in with my effervescent family. So I discovered that the only way for me to "speak" was to write. That suited me fine because I have always loved to write and I was very lucky to discover this passion. I was lucky to win numerous prizes and to meet my readers all over the world. I love my publishers, editors, librarians, teachers, booksellers and all the people have so enriched my life. Well you have certainly guessed that I love to love!

Marrying the mathematician Jacques Morgenstern made me not only French but also a French writer. He registered me in the university the day after we got to France and I did the equivalence of my B.A. (license) and then a masters and doctorate in comparative literature. Because I love to eat, I was afraid to depend on writing alone and I taught at the University of Nice for 38 years before retiring three years ago. It is a busy retirement as I run all over the world meeting readers.