Page 50 - Reader's House Magazine

Introducing
LIZ ALTERMAN
Navigating the Roller Coaster of Unemployment with Humour and Heart
Liz Alterman discusses the inspiration behind “Sad Sacked,” balancing comedy with serious themes, personal anecdotes, crafting suspense, and societal pressures in unemployment.
and introspection. She seamlessly intertwines personal experiences
with societal expectations, resonating deeply with readers navigating similar suburban landscapes.
Readers of Alterman’s previous work, such as The Perfect Neigh- bourhood, recognize her prowess in crafting suspenseful tales that grip the imagination. In the interview, Alter- man provides insights into her approa- ch to building tension and weaving unexpected twists, inviting readers on an exhilarating journey through the corridors of her narratives.
As Alterman candidly reflects on her writing process, she acknowledges the invaluable support of her family and fellow writers, underscoring the collaborative spirit that infuses her creative endeavours.
In Sad Sacked and beyond, Liz Alterman emerges as a beacon of resilience, reminding readers that even in the face of adversity, laughter and camaraderie can light the path
forward. Through her words, she invi- tes us to embrace the complexities of the human experience with empathy and humour, forging connections that transcend the pages of her books.
What inspired you to write Sad Sacked and delve into the chal- lenges faced by families dealing with sudden unemployment?
When my husband and I lost our jobs within six weeks of one another, we were in a state of shock and spent a lot of time asking, “How did we get here?”
We were in our forties, so we defi- nitely couldn’t afford to retire. (Who can these days?)
As we embarked on our job hunt, I found plenty of content designed to help you spruce up your resume, craft your cover letter, and nail an interview, but I didn’t see much that honestly addressed the mental and emotional toll unemployment takes on you.
In a recent interview with Reader’s House Magazine, Alterman sheds light on
the inspiration behind “Sad Sacked,” a poignant memoir delving into the challenges faced by families grappling with sudden job loss. Drawing from her own personal journey alongside her husband, Alterman offers a refreshingly honest narrative that navigates the tumultuous terrain of unemployment with humour and resilience.
At the heart of “Sad Sacked” lies a quest for authenticity amidst societal pressures to maintain appearances. Al- terman candidly shares anecdotes that weave through the fabric of her story- telling, offering readers a glimpse into the raw emotions and absurdities that accompany the pursuit of livelihood in an unpredictable world.
With a deft hand, Alterman balances the comedic elements of her narrative with the weight of its underlying themes, crafting a tapestry of laughter
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