Cristina Alger’s Twitter bio sums her up as “Reader, Writer, Mom” and author of two novels. Her second novel, THIS WAS NOT THE PLAN, is now available in paperback. Author Sarah Pekkanen calls it “A funny, bittersweet, and ultimately uplifting look at parenthood through the eyes of a single father. You won’t just root for these characters—you’ll fall in love with them.” I’m so pleased to have found Cristina and her work, and to introduce her to you today. Meet Cristina:

1. What have you learned from parenting, or from your own parents, that you bring to your work as a writer?

How to get stuff done under less-than-ideal conditions. Parenting is like a crash course in how to multi-task on little-to-no sleep. I’ve become a lot less precious about where and when I write since I had my children.

2. Where do you write? What do you love about it?

Anywhere my children are not. My most favorite place to work is the New York Society Library (down the street from my apartment). It’s the oldest cultural institution in New York City and they have wonderful exhibits and events. I have a little band of writer friends who work there, too, which makes it feel like an office (in the best possible way).

3. If you had a motto, what would it be?

Always be kind.

4. Who inspires you?

My son. He had open heart surgery at three days old and spent the first month of his life in the NICU. He is quite literally the toughest person I’ve ever met. He’s endured so much physical discomfort in his short life, but he’s the happiest, sunniest little guy. He inspires me every day.

5. What charity or community service are you passionate about?

I’ve been involved with the New York Public Library for nearly a decade. It’s an incredible organization. It’s so much more than just a place to check out books – it’s really a cultural hub and a safe space for people of all walks of life.

6. What are you reading now, and/or what book do you recommend?
This has been such an incredible year for books! Right now I’m reading CRUEL BEAUTIFUL WORLD by Caroline Levitt. It’s absolutely spellbinding. Before that, I really enjoyed UNDER THE HARROW by Flynn Berry and BEHOLD THE DREAMERS by Imbolo Mbue.

---

Cristina Alger is a lifelong New Yorker. A graduate of Harvard College and NYU Law School, she worked as a financial analyst and a corporate attorney before becoming an author. Her first novel, The Darlings, was published in 2012. Her second novel, This Was Not the Plan, was released in 2016.  She is currently working on her third novel.

Buy the Book

Follow Cristina at: CristinaAlger.com  Facebook  Instagram  Twitter