Documenting War on the Land in Ukraine
Part of the Against the Grain cultural festival, presentations on the ecological effects of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Outside the U.S. and Alarmed? How You Can Help
If you're a reader of this blog outside the U.S., a list of ways you can support people fighting for democracy in the U.S.
GOAT in Exile
Novak Djokovic's recent exile in Greece and what it means when prominent athletes head for the exits.
Large Countries and the Value of Life
In the wake of a tragic assassination, a discussion of whether a country can be too large and populous for its own good.
The Grim Reaper and the Dictator
Why rumors surrounding a leader's demise are endemic to dictatorships and why only the good die young.
Nothing to Celebrate
On July 4, 1776, a group of insurgents from the American colonies gathered to write a manifesto declaring their independence from the British king. They listed their grievances, among them…
Religion, Historical Fiction, and the American Pope
Portraying Catholic characters and the Catholic Church in my historical fiction in the context of the American prelate Leo XIV's election as the new pope.
PEN World Voices Festival: ArtLords Community Mural
A mural created by the ArtLords collective from Afghanistan, which brings its message of peace and community engagement to the world.
An Activism Panel in Texas
A sneak preview of my panel with acclaimed MG and YA authors at the Texas Library Association meeting, which will be my debut appearance there.
Paying for Our Own Oppression
At tax time, reflections on a Chilean duo that also resisted a dictatorship.