In this episode of The Franciska Show, Judy Gruen discusses her latest book, ‘Bylines and Blessings,’ her fifth publication and second memoir. They delve into Judy’s motivation for writing the book, how it contrasts with her earlier work, ‘The Skeptic and the Rabbi,’ and its focus on her career as a Jewish journalist and the challenges of balancing professional ambition with personal and religious life. Judy shares candid stories about her writing journey, overcoming obstacles, maintaining humor amidst disappointments, and navigating the complexities of female identity and societal expectations. The episode highlights key moments from the book, including various personal anecdotes and professional experiences, conveying the broader message of perseverance and redefining success.
About Our Guest:
Judy is the author of five books, including the acclaimed memoirs “Bylines and Blessings” and “The Skeptic and the Rabbi.” She’s a regularly featured columnist for the Jewish Journal, and in 2024 she was awarded First Place in Commentary by the American Jewish Press Association and 2nd Place for Book Reviews by the Los Angeles Press Club. Her work has also appeared in the Wall Street Journal, New York Daily News, Chicago Tribune, Aish.com, Jewish Action, and many other outlets. She edits non-fiction books and coaches writers in their craft.