Episode Summary: "Georgia Hunter, ONE GOOD THING: A Novel" – Totally Booked with Zibby

Podcast Title: Totally Booked with Zibby
Host: Zibby Owens
Guest: Georgia Hunter
Release Date: March 20, 2025

Introduction to Georgia Hunter and Her Work

In this compelling episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens welcomes back acclaimed author Georgia Hunter to discuss her latest novel, "One Good Thing." Georgia is renowned for her New York Times bestseller, "We Were the Lucky Ones," a poignant recount of her family's Holocaust survival story, which has been adapted into a highly acclaimed limited series by Hulu. With a rich background as a bookstore owner, publisher, and author, Georgia brings a wealth of experience and heartfelt insights to the conversation.

Exploring "One Good Thing"

Zibby Owens expresses her admiration for "One Good Thing," highlighting how the novel transports readers across Italy and delves deep into the complexities of friendship amidst the harrowing backdrop of the Holocaust.

Zibby Owens [19:26]: “And the love you mentioned with her dad, I found that to be such a poignant element of the story. ... it was just so real.”

Georgia Hunter elaborates on the thematic shift from her first novel, which was deeply rooted in her personal family history, to exploring the broader tapestry of friendships in "One Good Thing." She emphasizes the balance between historical accuracy and creative storytelling, aiming to present a multifaceted view of Italy's Holocaust history through her protagonist, Lily.

Georgia Hunter [03:58]: “I felt very drawn to that as a setting... It holds a very special place in my heart.”

Themes of Friendship and Love

The novel centers on the profound friendship between Lily and Esti, two women from opposing backgrounds who form an unbreakable bond in the face of adversity. Georgia draws inspiration from her own deep friendships, infusing the narrative with authentic emotions and dynamics.

Georgia Hunter [09:31]: “... they share this incredible bond. And in the beginning of the story, the book opens with Esti’s child being born... Lily is tasked with keeping Theo safe.”

The exploration of love extends beyond friendship, delving into familial love and newfound romantic connections, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.

Georgia Hunter [11:37]: “Through Lily’s story, we get introduced to the theme of love... It was fun also to build in a romance with a young American soldier... inspired by my late father and my husband.”

Historical Context and Research

Georgia discusses the intricate historical context of Italy during the Holocaust, emphasizing the gradual implementation of racial laws and the eventual German occupation. She underscores the importance of portraying the nuanced and often confusing political landscape of the time.

Georgia Hunter [07:08]: “Italy was much more of a slow build. You had these racial laws chipping away at the rights of Jews... Lily was trying to keep up with this history as it was unfolding.”

She highlights the ongoing debates about Italy's role in protecting Jews and the involvement of various groups, aiming to present a balanced narrative without favoring a particular side.

Georgia Hunter [07:08]: “I really didn’t want to pick one side. I wanted to tell all sides of that story through Lily’s perspective.”

Personal Connections and Inspirations

Georgia shares her personal connection to Italy, where her parents met and spent a significant part of their lives. This deep-rooted connection not only influences the setting of her novel but also imbues it with genuine affection and authenticity.

Georgia Hunter [03:58]: “Italy is a place where my parents first met... It feels like a second home in some way.”

Her inspiration also stems from her family, friends, and experiences, allowing her to create relatable and heartfelt characters.

Georgia Hunter [13:13]: “I was inspired by my dear friends, my two little boys, my father, my husband... I draw so much from the people and the places and the experiences I’ve had in my life.”

Relevance of Holocaust History Today

The conversation shifts to the contemporary relevance of Holocaust history, with Georgia expressing concern over rising anti-Semitism and the declining awareness among younger generations.

Georgia Hunter [24:15]: “It feels like the world’s moving backwards... the statistics, when you start to read them, are horrifying... lack of knowledge is the stem of anti-Semitism.”

She emphasizes the urgency of preserving these stories to foster empathy and understanding, aiming to educate and inspire future generations through her writing and public engagements.

Georgia Hunter [24:15]: “We just need more empathy. When you don’t know about something or have a very narrow-minded view, there’s no path toward relating and toward empathy.”

Current Projects and Future Endeavors

Georgia updates listeners on her current projects, including a pending launch and participation in the Critics Choice Awards. She hints at potential future works, including children’s books co-authored with her sons, reflecting her dedication to storytelling across different audiences.

Georgia Hunter [28:04]: “My boys are 13 and 7, and they really want me to write a children’s book and they want to write it with me... Maybe it'll be a children's book or a young adult...”

She shares her enthusiasm for collaborative creative processes and the joy of involving her children in her literary journey.

Advice for Aspiring Authors

Offering heartfelt advice, Georgia encourages aspiring authors to pursue what genuinely interests them and to remain open-minded throughout the creative process. She underscores the importance of passion, perseverance, and surrounding oneself with a supportive community.

Georgia Hunter [30:18]: “Pick a subject or a theme that means something to you... Trust your heart to see what feels right... Surround yourself with people who love you and support you.”

She recommends "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott as a valuable resource for new writers navigating the challenges of drafting and self-belief.

Closing Thoughts and Future Engagements

As the episode concludes, Zibby Owens and Georgia Hunter reflect on the enduring impact of historical narratives and the power of storytelling to bridge understanding across generations. Georgia expresses optimism about ongoing efforts to educate and engage the public through her work, while Zibby encourages listeners to delve into the rich landscapes of Italy and the deep emotional journeys of the characters.

Zibby Owens [32:14]: “You were at the table and just there was so much hard work put into that show. So I’m just proud to like have that recognized.”

The episode wraps up with enthusiastic endorsements and warm farewells, leaving listeners inspired to explore Georgia Hunter’s evocative storytelling and the profound themes embedded within "One Good Thing."

Notable Quotes

• Georgia Hunter [03:58]: “I felt very drawn to that as a setting... It holds a very special place in my heart.”

• Georgia Hunter [07:08]: “I really didn’t want to pick one side. I wanted to tell all sides of that story through Lily’s perspective.”

• Georgia Hunter [24:15]: “We just need more empathy. When you don’t know about something or have a very narrow-minded view, there’s no path toward relating and toward empathy.”

• Georgia Hunter [30:18]: “Pick a subject or a theme that means something to you... Trust your heart to see what feels right...”

Conclusion

This episode serves as a profound exploration of Georgia Hunter’s newest literary endeavor, "One Good Thing," intertwining historical depth with the timeless themes of friendship, love, and resilience. Through her eloquent storytelling and passionate discourse, Georgia not only brings to life the lesser-known facets of Italy’s Holocaust history but also underscores the enduring importance of empathy and historical remembrance in today’s world.

For listeners eager to delve deeper into "One Good Thing" and Georgia Hunter’s body of work, this episode offers invaluable insights and a heartfelt invitation to engage with stories that resonate across time and cultures.

Stay Connected:
For more information about Zibby Owens and Totally Booked with Zibby, visit zibbymedia.com and follow Zibby on Instagram @zibbyowens.