Iphigenia Murphy came out one year ago today!
While this was in many ways a happy and exciting day for me, Iffy’s entry into the world will always be, of course, bound up with the fear and losses and uncertainty of the pandemic.
Back in March 2020, I was looking forward to launching Iffy by reading at Kew &Willow Bookstore–a wonderful spot right near Forest Park in Queens, where Iphigenia Murphy is set. After, we’d all head to my friend Vanessa’s nearby home for a party. And Vanessa had some really cool plans. She’s one of those people–everything she touches turns to beautiful.
But, Vanessa also happens to be a nurse. Although in early March in New York, many people were behaving as though everything was business as usual, Vanessa felt pretty sure this coronavirus thing was a big deal. I was sad when she cancelled the party–and I hoped she was overreacting–but I trusted her and I knew she was probably right.
As you know, she was.
The launch at Kew & Willow was cancelled and, in the following days and weeks, so were all the other events I had lined up.
Though it terrified me at first, I did get on board with doing online events and I had many lovely and successful readings and interviews. I had the opportunity to talk to and meet people I perhaps might not have otherwise and for that I’m grateful. And while the past year has brought challenges, I also know that I’ve been very fortunate to have not only had a book come out, but to have stayed healthy, to be able to protect myself and my family, and to be able to continue to work.
Reflecting on this time brings into focus how much there is to be optimistic about. While there has been too much suffering, I’m thankful that many people I care about have recovered from illness and that many people I care about have now been vaccinated. And I can’t help but be hopeful that, just when they needed it, some people found distraction or solace in reading about Iffy. I also hope that others will continue to discover her, particularly as places like libraries and bookstores begin to fully re-open for browsing.
Thanks to all of you who supported me and the book this past year. It’s meant everything.
Get your copy of Iphigenia Murphy today–reduced price here!
Sara Hosey 