The Book Case: Episode Summary – "Our Writer in Residence Talks Endings"

Release Date: May 29, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of The Book Case, hosts Kate Gibson and Charlie Gibson delve deep into the creative journey of their Writer in Residence, Jay Ryan Straddle. This episode not only explores Jay's intricate writing process but also features an inspiring segment on Nefer Book Cafe, an emerging independent bookstore fostering community in the Bronx.

Interview with Jay Ryan Straddle

Background and Connection to Jay Ryan

Kate introduces Jay Ryan Straddle, highlighting their long-standing friendship that dates back to college. Jay's literary prowess was evident early on, with Kate recalling, “[...] I couldn't put it down. And I always knew he was a great writer in college.” Jay's fourth novel is a deeply personal project, inspired by the untimely death of his mother at 55.

Writing Process and Evolution

Jay discusses his transition to writing sequentially and with a single point of view. At [05:17], he shares, “I'm on page 238 in Word and 66,183 words,” indicating significant progress with just two chapters left. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on a single protagonist to center the narrative around the hero's journey.

Meditation and Creative Flow

At [06:51], Jay credits meditation for helping him achieve a state of focused calmness, stating, “Meditating to me just felt like... flushing a toilet. And after, I just feel like, all right, I'm locked in. I'm focused.” This practice replaced his previous methods like bike riding, allowing him to immerse fully in his writing.

Tribute to His Mother

The novel serves as a tribute to Jay's mother, blending fictional elements with heartfelt homage. At [11:15], Jay reflects, “Nothing can be enough of a tribute to her ultimately. But this is the most consequential tribute I've done so far to her.” The character Peggy embodies 70-80% of Jay's mother, evolving into her own distinct persona within the story.

Overcoming Writing Challenges

Jay shares his struggle with nitpicking and editing, which often led him to discard substantial portions of his work. However, by [10:01], he marks a turning point: “By September 10, 2024, almost everything I've kept and have moved forward.” This shift allowed him to focus on progressing the narrative while making necessary adjustments to enhance story coherence.

Workshop and Feedback

Collaborating closely with Brooke, who has an MFA in theater, Jay reads his manuscript aloud, receiving valuable feedback. At [16:12], he notes, “Hearing the characters speak and react... helps catch inconsistencies that aren't evident on the page.”

Publishing Prospects

With three successful novels, Jay opts to sell each book individually rather than pursuing multi-book deals. As of [17:49], he discusses plans to submit his latest manuscript to his agent for further guidance on publishing strategies.

Emotional Significance

Acknowledging the profound personal nature of this book, Jay admits at [19:00], “This is an intensely personal book. It's the most, I think, profound and focused way I've attempt to honor her legacy.” The narrative not only explores imagined chapters of his mother's life but also serves as a means for Jay to seek closure, albeit recognizing its elusive nature.

Feature: Nefer Book Cafe with Pumpkin

Transitioning from Jay's literary journey, Kate and Charlie spotlight Nefer Book Cafe, an innovative bookstore in the Bronx managed by Lana Dawson, affectionately known as Pumpkin.

Establishing the Bookstore

Pumpkin explains at [24:45], “Nefer Book Cafe is the place that I always needed to go. We nurture love, joy, identity through reading and conversations.” The bookstore emphasizes curation with purpose, selecting books that dislodge dehumanizing beliefs and foster healing from social divisions.

Community Building

At [29:05], Pumpkin shares a heartwarming anecdote about Alison Hill's visit, highlighting the magical community atmosphere she cultivates. "[...] everyone walks in as strangers and leaves as friends," Pumpkin notes, emphasizing the intentional communal seating arrangements that encourage spontaneous conversations and connections.

Meaning Behind the Name

Nefer, derived from Kemetic culture, signifies both “good, beautiful, pleasant” and “zero,” symbolizing infinite possibilities born from emptiness. Pumpkin pays homage to her seventh-grade English teacher, Mrs. Anderson, named Nefer, whose influence inspired the bookstore's ethos.

Decolonized Translations

Committed to inclusive and thoughtful curation, Pumpkin prioritizes decolonized translations, ensuring that translations maintain the author's original intent. She mentions works like Lama Rod Owens' The New Saints as exemplary in gently challenging dehumanizing beliefs through literature.

Location and Invitation

Nefer Book Cafe is located at 694 E 241st St., Wakeville, Bronx, New York. Pumpkin invites the community to visit, promising not just books but a wholesome, engaging experience that fosters love and connection.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Kate and Charlie expressing their admiration for both Jay and Pumpkin, celebrating the intertwining of personal storytelling and community-building through literature. They encourage listeners to support independent bookstores like Nefer Book Cafe and look forward to Jay's novel release.

Notable Quotes

• Charlie Gibson [05:07]: "Jay Ryan, as you've talked about before, this is based on the fact that your mom died when she was 55."

• Jay Ryan Straddle [06:42]: "Meditating to me just felt like... flushing a toilet. And after, I just feel like, all right, I'm locked in. I'm focused."

• Pumpkin [24:45]: "Nefer Book Cafe is the place that I always needed to go. We nurture love, joy, identity through reading and conversations."

• Jay Ryan Straddle [19:34]: "If I felt like that every day while writing it, I might be paralyzed by a sense of obligation to honor that. But ultimately, yes, I think that's in the back of my head."

Tune in every Thursday to explore diverse literary landscapes and discover new genres with Kate and Charlie Gibson on The Book Case.