Book reading The Last Brass Ring written by author Liz Hill and set in Staten Island. Meet the author, hear some excerpts, participate in a Q&A session.
Liz will talk about her inspiration for the book, set in 1980s Staten Island with a parallel story told in flashbacks to the 1940s, as well as decisions related to the publication process.
-
The novel’s heroine, Lilli Whitaker, didn’t expect to spend the summer before her senior year of high school living on Staten Island with her notoriously difficult Aunt Stella. Lilli's one refuge is a summer job at an amusement park, modeled after the former South Beach rides. For Lilli, 1989 becomes a summer of discovery that leads to romance, new friendships, and a long-hidden family secret. A restored carousel and its coveted brass ring also play an important role in the story.
A key part of Lilli’s journey in the novel involves exploring old mementoes to discover a missing piece of her family history. “It was fun to write a book set before emails, texting, and social media,” says Liz. “Lilli and her new friends must talk face-to-face in order to understand each other. Everything she learns about her family comes from conversations or letters and photos that have been hidden away.”
Liz Hill is a Staten Island native who graduated from New Dorp High School and St. John’s University. After leaving the Island, she lived and worked in six other states, and now divides her time between North Carolina and Jalisco, Mexico. Liz is the co-author of three other novels for young adults as well several plays and short stories. An avid journaler, she has led workshops in “un-journaling” helping others to review journals as a way of reflecting on their lives.
What Others Say About The Last Brass Ring
“The Last Brass Ring' is an enchanting and unforgettable tale. Get ready to be swept away in this mesmerizing novel filled with nostalgia and heartwarming revelations." — Christopher Barzak, author, Wonders of the Invisible World
"There are no summer job blahs for Lilli in this charming, well-written story about new friendships, budding romance, and big family secrets."— Linda Joffe Hull, author, The Royal Game (co-writing as Linda Keir)
"The Last Brass Ring is a coming-of-age story with so much heart you will think about Lilli and her triumph of courage long after you close the book."—Shannon Baker author, Kate Fox mystery series.
To learn more about Liz Hill, see www.lizhill.net. She is available for media interviews.