I based the stories of Alice on my mother’s experiences, especially during WWII and the 1950’s, and I wanted to honor my mother and be accurate to the historical period.
Meryl Ain – 24 January 2026
The Back Flap
Following a Jewish family from before World War II to the not-too-distant future, this collection of loosely linked short stories explores the experiences of Marjorie, a baby boomer; her mother, Alice; and the friends and family that make up their community over the decades. As they each pursue higher education and choose career paths, both mother and daughter encounter challenges as they make choices within a changing society—from in-law problems to illness to antisemitism and beyond.
Sometimes poignant, sometimes humorous, Remember to Eat takes on themes including patriarchy, technology, the changing role of women, the challenges of raising children, the COVID-19 pandemic, complex family relationships, and what it means to be a Jew with empathy and insight. Ultimately, the twenty-two stories contained in these pages offer not only an intimate journey into these women’s lives but also an illuminating portrait of the times in which they live.
About the book
What is the book about?
The book is about a Jewish family from before World War II to the present. It’s a collection of loosely linked short stories that explore the experiences of Marjorie, a baby boomer; her mother, Alice; and the friends and family that make up their community over the decades. As they each pursue higher education and choose career paths, both mother and daughter encounter challenges as they make choices within a changing society—from in-law problems to illness to antisemitism and beyond.
When did you start writing the book?
About two-and-a-half years ago.
How long did it take you to write it?
About nine months.
Where did you get the idea from?
I wanted to tell what it was like for women coming of age during WWII and also in the 1960’s and ‘70s, and what it was like for these women in the present dealing with children, grandchildren, employment, and current issues.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
I based the stories of Alice on my mother’s experiences, especially during WWII and the 1950’s, and I wanted to honor my mother and be accurate to the historical period.
What came easily?
The present day stories.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
I think all authors start with a kernel of truth and then fictionalize, at least that’s what I did in most of the stories.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
I think Elizabeth Strout, Jhumpa Lahiri, and Hilma Wolitzer are amazing short story writers, and I continue to read and reread their stories, and try to learn from them.
Do you have a target reader?
I think this is very much a woman’s book, but men who have read it enjoy it too, as do people of all ages. I think it is especially relevant for baby boomers.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I write first thing in the morning for three or four hours. Unless, I’m completely caught up in an idea, my best work is in the morning.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I outline chapter ideas, and then add titles later. I don’t really like to outline stories. I will, however, jot down ideas, character names, and chapter headings.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I am constantly rereading and editing. As my high school English teacher told us, “Your words are not immortal.”
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
No, I prefer quiet.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I had worked with my publisher for my two novels and I was satisfied with the outcome.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
The publisher handled it. It’s a great cover!
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
I definitely have a market plan and have hired publicists.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Just sit down and write your book. Then do whatever you have to do to get it out in the world. And don’t let anyone discourage you!
End of Interview:
For more from Meryl Ain visit her website and follow her on Facebook.
Get your copy of Remember to Eat and Other Stories from Amazon US.
