In the aftermath of the World Central Kitchen tragedy that took the lives of 7 humanitarian aid workers in Gaza this week, I wrote a letter to President Biden on Wednesday evening. The text of my letter is below. My hope is that my letter will inspire other people to not just post on social media but also to write to all of their elected officials and policy makers as a way of pushing for change at a system level.
“Dear President Biden,
On the news tonight, I heard you’re speaking to Prime Minister Netanyahu tomorrow. I know you receive a multitude of letters and that mine will likely never reach you but I’ve been so racked by grief at the tremendous loss of life in Gaza, especially the aid workers from World Central Kitchen, that I had to write to you.
This war’s made it unsafe for Americans to be abroad and unsafe to be Jewish, even in a city as diverse and accepting as New York City, where I live. This war is starving millions of people. It’s killed tens of thousands, the majority children and women. It’s maimed, disabled, and orphaned an untold number of innocent people. The people of Gaza are penned in with nowhere to go, no safe passage out and no safe space within.
I know the situation is complicated. I know the Jewish people have suffered for decades, for centuries. I know October 7th was a horrific unspeakable act by Hamas. And I also know what Netanyahu’s government is doing now is as cruel and inhumane as what has been done to them. The people of Gaza and Israel deserve better. They deserve peace. Netanyahu will never give them peace. And so, we have to use every resource we have to stand for peace: A stop on weapons, funding, and support for Netanyahu.
The second term of your presidency is on the line, and with it the future of our nation and the world. We’re asking you to lead, to protect us, to stand on the side of humanity and peace, and that means we cannot stand with Netanyahu. That way lies another Trump presidency, more anti-Semitism, and more anti-American sentiment. We and the world cannot afford any of that.
This war must end and Netanyahu must go. And you must be the one to take that stand. It’s as simple and as complex as that. I know it’s painful. I know it’s difficult. It must be done and you must do it, for all our sakes.
I’m so excited for this next chapter of her adventure to be out in the world. A million thanks to everyone who’s loved us and cheered us on through our journey.
I’m smiling from ear to ear as I close out the week with two more reviews of my novel, Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads, from people for whom I have enormous respect: Felicia Sabartinelli and Matt Joseph Misetich.
“It’s rare to find a book that not only ignites your imagination but explores the varying degrees of grief with such beauty and skillful precision. Through mystical creatures and new worlds, Avampato does an incredible job of balancing fantasy and folklore with the complexities of human emotion. This is – in many ways – an immersive and powerful ride through Emerson’s journey into young adulthood and the importance of finding one’s power. Readers, young and old, will not be able to put this down.” ~Felicia Sabartinelli, award-winning essayist, poet, public speaker, and creator of Ferocious. https://www.feliciasabartinelli.com/
“A thoroughly enchanting ride. Christa Avampato drops us into a wondrous world dazzling with imagination and magic. But what sets this apart is her keen ability to make us somehow relate so strongly, and so universally, to a story otherwise steeped in pure fantasy. A book drowning in charm. Avampato brings her own light and magic to familiar-yet-extraordinary settings alive with warmth, honesty, and an eclectic cast that will please even casual YA readers.” ~Matt Joseph Misetich, Senior Executive and Partner at Pipeline Media Group. https://pipelinemediagroup.com/
Today I’m writing my author’s note and acknowledgement sections of my novel, Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads. With a May 14th release date, tomorrow March 1st is my last day to submit anything to my publisher. I’ve procrastinated (which to be honest I never do because it’s not at all in my nature) writing these sections for two reasons: 1.) I’ve been heads-down on my dissertation and 2.) I’m scared. My first full messy draft of my dissertation is nearly done so now I need to get over my fear and write these last 2 pieces.
Why am I afraid to write them? First, these are very personal sections of the book. I want them to be meaningful and poignant as I talk directly to the readers and publicly thank those who have been instrumental in the creation of this book in particular. At the time of this writing, the world is a heavy place. Since my first Emerson Page novel, Emerson Page and Where the Light Enters, was released in 2017, the world at-large and my world in particular have gone through seismic shifts. I want to say something that gives people hope, and I want to express my immense gratitude as clearly as possible.
Maybe that’s it. Maybe that’s where I start, exactly where I want these pieces of the book to land—with hope and gratitude. If I can get those two ideas across to the readers, then I’ll have done what I set out to do.
Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads by Christa Avampato
Five 5-star reviews for my upcoming novel, Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads, which will be released on May 14th everywhere books are sold! I cried big, happy, overjoyed tears reading these reviews. They express everything I hope readers think and feel in Emerson’s story.
Some highlights: “It’s Indiana Jones for young adults with much more magic and lore” “A mythic quest exploring grief, creativity, and what it means to step into one’s power” “Captivates from the first page to the last” “Every fantasy lover’s dream book” “Sleek and highly detailed” “I couldn’t put it down” “Unforgettable”
Longer reviews: “A mythic quest exploring grief, creativity, and what it means to step into one’s power. Avampato’s ability to weave themes of inner exploration, imagination, and loss into an epic adventure is second to none. From the hectic streets of Times Square to Dublin to worlds unknown, I’d follow Emerson Page (and Friday) wherever their light will take me! I wish I had this book when I was a teenager!” ~Torri Yates-Orr, Emmy-Nominated history and mythology communicator, writer, host, and creator of the “On This Day in History” series
“With a healthy dose of adventure, mystery, and magic, Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads captivates you from the first page to the last. Christa Avampato has built an immersive fantasy world featuring talking trees, superpowered teenage protagonists, faeries, and a host of other magical creatures. Imagine Indiana Jones for young adults with much more magic and lore, and you will end up with something like this. Keeping a brisk pace to the narrative, Avampato weaves an absorbing plot that keeps you hooked with unexpected reveals and twists and turns you never see coming. Emerson is a likable main character who finds it easy to make friends. She is someone you want to root for. I found the book very entertaining, and if you enjoy YA urban fantasy, this will be right up your alley.” ~Pikasho Deka, Pittsburg Post-Gazette, and NBC, ABC, and Fox affiliates
“Since Christa Avampato has incorporated the necessary details from the first book, I had no trouble picking up the threads. However, I advise readers to read the previous book first because everyone should enjoy this amazing series to the fullest. I loved how Avampato included lush descriptions of a cozy bookstore boasting giant tomes, a club brimming with memorabilia from daring adventures, a planetarium with a view into the infinite world of stars, and the Library of Imagination with all its grandeur. The visuals made me feel like I was there with Emerson, soaking up the moments. Although the story depends on the death of a parent and even portrays Emerson’s grief, it is nonetheless full of positivity. With talking and moving statues, hidden rooms inside ancient trees, and secret underground pathways, Avampato transports readers to an alternate reality. Featuring an unseen world teeming with folkloric beings, hard bargains, and strange rules, Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads is every fantasy lover’s dream book.” ~Shrabastee Chakraborty, The Chrysalis BREW Project
“Christa Avampato’s beautiful storytelling builds a magical world where human creativity has a tangible quality, and controlling it is the difference between life and death. The characters are crafted nicely with noticeable traits that the reader will easily connect with. Avampato impresses upon the reader the importance of developing an interest in adventure, honing leadership qualities, and appreciating what one can learn from books. Avampato’s storytelling is sleek and highly detailed, describing the magical creatures to such an extent that the reader will have no difficulty imagining what they look like. With its even pace and Avampato’s knack for dropping subtle clues in unusual parts of the plot, Emerson Page and Where The Light Leads is a balanced story that YA adventure fans will love.” ~Essien Asian, OnlineBookClub.org
“Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads has unique and creative lore that makes it unforgettable. Christa Avampato is a skilled writer who blends familiar mythology with imaginative elements to craft a compelling tale. Her descriptions are clear and detailed, painting vivid scenes that bring the story to life. The characters are interesting, with diverse personalities, backgrounds, and motives. What sets this book apart from other young adult adventures are the lesson-filled stories woven into the main plot and the thought-provoking riddles that serve as clues for Emerson’s quest. I could not put the book down because I did not want to miss anything crucial to Emerson’s journey.” ~Luwi Nyakansaila, Readers’ Favorite
“Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads is a captivating book that features intriguing characters and elements of Greek and Celtic mythology. The book is well-written, with a smooth flow and a unique plot. The lessons she learned along the way served their purpose in the final chapter. I highly recommend this book to all young adult adventure fans.” ~Doreen Chombu, Readers’ Favorite
Another exciting book launch milestone! The press release and sell sheet for my novel, Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads, are complete and being sent out with the galley (watermarked book manuscript) to media for review. Please feel free to share these with any media contacts whom you think would be interested. Pre-order links will be available next week, and I’ll share those as soon as I have them. Thank you to everyone for all the support. It takes a village, and I’m glad I’m with you.
Every Sunday on Instagram (@christarosenyc), I create a #Sundaybuffet post that highlights the top 10 things that inspired me, brought me joy and wonder, and made me laugh that week as part of my gratitude practice. I’d love to have you join me on Instagram and I’d love to know what inspires you. The images below are my #Sundaybuffet this week, along with a description, attribution, and the Instagram accounts for each one.
Here’s to being alive, healthy, and grateful in this beautiful world. I hope your Sunday is filled with love in all its wondrous forms.
@USinterior@hikester_ –January 5th was National Bird Day. This photo of a bald eagle in Idaho was taken by Derek Butler, an Irish photographer. There was a record number of bald eagles observed at Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho in December – 409
January 5th was also my awesome niece, @lorelei_waldrep_08 ’s, 16th birthday. I remember the exact moment I first met her as a baby, and she is one of the reasons I’m so passionate about protecting the health of the planet—so she has a future to look forward to.
@Blacksun_awaken –Helena Bonham Carter is a queen. I love her perspective on the art in everything
@amyselwynphotographer –Stunning image “the journey felt enormous” is a collaboration between her imagination and AI platform @mid.journey. I’m really interested in learning more about AI for visual climate storytelling, and Amy’s work is a beacon of how to do this well.
@Sweatpantsandcoffee –How I like to spend every Sunday morning if I’m honest – in sweatpants, coffee in hand, and reading inspiring words. This post by writer and artist Nanea Hoffman about how we are born of stars is the crux of my @iamEmersonPage novels.
@Secret.London@AshCrossan –Nothing better than a cozy pub on a blustery day. In the U.S., we don’t have the Sunday roast tradition but I’m going to start making Sunday roast in my Brooklyn apartment to make winter more joyful.
@tanner_smiths –shabby chic meets gangster-inspired décor at this speakeasy in midtown Manhattan. It looks unassuming from the outside and is a favorite spot of mine to meet up with friends. They’re all-in on the steampunk /1920s aesthetic I love. Their cocktail (and mocktail!) list as well as their food is top-notch. I was here this week for the launch of @fringepress, @bookpipeline’s latest project.
What would you do if the work you do right now ended tomorrow? I’ve been thinking about this question since I was at University of Cambridge / Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) in December for my Masters in Sustainability Leadership program. My wonderful friend, Karen, in my cohort found me one morning to show me a Stanford TEDx talk titled 5 Steps to Designing the Life You Want by Bill Burnett that she felt I needed to see. She was right.
The whole talk is worth watching and the part that affected me most is a future visioning exercise called 3 lives. You imagine the next 5 years of your career in these scenarios:
1. Keep doing exactly what you’re doing now and it’s going to turn out great. What does great look like? In your career and life?
2. What would you do if what you’re doing right now ends tomorrow? How would your career and life change? What would that look and feel like?
3. Now for your wildcard plan. You have enough money to pursue any career you want, and no one would laugh at you for it. What would you do? What would your life and career look like then?
Which of these lives feels like the best path? Put aside the inner critic. Which one makes you happier and more fulfilled? For various reasons, that one may not be the one you choose to pursue but having a sense of these different paths helps us get unstuck.
Futures visioning is a part of my Cambridge dissertation so doing this exercise was a part of practicing what I preach. I sat down and sketched out these 3 lives for myself. It helped me uncover hidden ideas, interests, and desires I didn’t even know I had. It also helped me realize a few things that Bill speaks to in his talk:
1. The really interesting opportunities present themselves in our periphery. They are the things we didn’t see coming and didn’t plan for. Realizing this encourages me to be open to new people, information, learnings, ideas, and opportunities.
2. Bill encourages us to look at these three lives with our head and our heart. Decisions made from your emotions are just as valid, if not more so, than those made from our logic and reasoning. Emotions have much more wisdom than we give them credit for.
3. There isn’t one way to build a life or career. We can and will grow into different lives, and that can happen at any and every age. There is no timeline that we must follow. We can trust the timing of our lives and career. Things unfold in ways we don’t always understand. That’s okay. Be open, and be prepared to be lucky.
Let me know how it goes for you if you try this exercise. I’d love to hear about what you discover and I’d also love to support your journey.
Buzzing with excitement! The watermarked galley (proof copy) of my novel, Emerson Page and Where the Light Leads, is finalized! The press release and sell sheet are in progress. The manuscript along with the press release, sell sheet, and cover letter comprise the media packet. These will start to go out to media reviewers next week, as well as feature editors, book sellers, podcast hosts, book award competitions, and potential partners.
My website and socials will be updated, as well as my newsletter, in the new year. The next season of my podcast, JoyProject, will focus on the book, writing, and publishing. I want this book to be a bright spot, not a blind spot. I want Emerson’s story to be a respite so everyone who slips into her world for a short time can gather the strength and inspiration they need to keep going. A trip through a magical version of New York City and Ireland can do wonders for the imagination!
Publishing a book is akin to starting a business, marketing and promoting a book is a joint responsibility between the publisher and the author. My experience in business (specifically as an entrepreneur and product developer) is enormously helpful in my work as an author. Because I’m often pitched to as a journalist, I work hard to craft my pitches so they’re personal, relevant, and as interesting as possible. I need to make it easy to want to read and share my book, and I’m grateful to anyone and everyone who takes the time to even consider my pitch. I know how precious time is.
To that end, if you or someone you know would be interested in reviewing or selling the book in any medium or channel, please let me know at christa.avampato@gmail.com. A million thank yous!
I’m deep into the work of my University of Cambridge dissertation. The more I learn, the more questions I have. I’m sitting at my laptop, looking at the research and also monitoring the news. Where do I begin with all of the problems, pain, and promise in the world? How can I make a difference?
I close my laptop and go to the forest, where I always go when I don’t know what to do. My forest is Prospect Park in Brooklyn. The ginko trees are putting on a show—my favorite kind of gold. Walking there among the crunchy colorful leaves on the forest floor, the autumn sun on my face, breathing in the cool dry air, I think of Rilke and his beautiful quote about living the questions in the book Letters to a Young Poet.
“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.” ~Rainer Maria Rilke
Maybe the point of my dissertation is not to find an answer, but instead to find a way to ask powerful questions that help readers live into answers of their own making and choosing. Maybe I’ve been trying to make my dissertation a solution when what’s really needed is a mirror, using stories to reflect individual truths back to people who haven’t yet seen them on their own, to help them stand in the power they don’t know they have to shape the world in a way where everyone brings their gifts and resources to the table and uses them to collaboratively to win together.
This is how a forest operates, the flora and fauna sharing with and caring for one another, each taking what they need and giving what they have. Diversity is celebrated, and necessary for health. Abundance is created through deep cooperation. Imagine a human society like that. Maybe I’ve found an answer after all.
Christa Avampato 