Jessica
asked
Ruth Wariner:
Hi Ruth :) I was just wondering what your experience has been like with your students and school since your book has come out. I teach and would love to one day write, and I do wonder what the dynamic would be like with them if I were to ever be published. Did you talk with your students and administration before your story was published? Thank you, -Jessica
Ruth Wariner
Hi Jessica,
I'm in the process of transitioning careers right now and am no longer teaching. I did begin writing my memoir while I was still in the classroom, though, and I was concerned about how my colleagues and students might react. I wrote the story in a very personal way, and I thought that might hurt my relationships with them. I taught for eight years before I decided to make a change.
On the evening of my book launch, January 5, 2016, several of my former colleagues and students showed up for the signing, and I was incredibly touched by their support and encouragement. They were so, so excited for me and seemed proud of my accomplishment. I have since heard from several of them, and their response has been overwhelmingly positive. They've shared tidbits of their own heartbreaking stories with me. So far, it feels like they have been grateful for my vulnerability. Their reactions have helped make me thankful that I've had the opportunity to write and share my story.
I also wanted to add that I did talk with my family in depth about my writing, and I shared my manuscript with them before I approached a publisher. Because so much of the story is also theirs, I wanted to make sure they were OK with what I wrote. They were also very supportive.
When you decide to write and share your work, you'll probably have a good instinct about how you want to share it both personally and professionally. It really is a very personal decision.
Thank you for your thoughtful question and best of luck to you on your writing journey.
Ruth
I'm in the process of transitioning careers right now and am no longer teaching. I did begin writing my memoir while I was still in the classroom, though, and I was concerned about how my colleagues and students might react. I wrote the story in a very personal way, and I thought that might hurt my relationships with them. I taught for eight years before I decided to make a change.
On the evening of my book launch, January 5, 2016, several of my former colleagues and students showed up for the signing, and I was incredibly touched by their support and encouragement. They were so, so excited for me and seemed proud of my accomplishment. I have since heard from several of them, and their response has been overwhelmingly positive. They've shared tidbits of their own heartbreaking stories with me. So far, it feels like they have been grateful for my vulnerability. Their reactions have helped make me thankful that I've had the opportunity to write and share my story.
I also wanted to add that I did talk with my family in depth about my writing, and I shared my manuscript with them before I approached a publisher. Because so much of the story is also theirs, I wanted to make sure they were OK with what I wrote. They were also very supportive.
When you decide to write and share your work, you'll probably have a good instinct about how you want to share it both personally and professionally. It really is a very personal decision.
Thank you for your thoughtful question and best of luck to you on your writing journey.
Ruth
More Answered Questions
Linda
asked
Ruth Wariner:
We would love you to talk to our book club. August, Sept, Oct. We are a great group of 8 women who have been together since the 60's.We all live either in Portland proper or surrounding areas. I have read the book and thought I new the ending but was wrong. You are an amazing woman of strength. If interested pls email me at leelinda1987@gmail.com. We'll feed you too.?
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