By Sarah Elbeshbishi
Sara Goodman Confino has heard the expression, “those who can’t do, teach,” but this writing teacher is proving that wrong with her debut novel, For the Love of Friends.Confino teaches English, journalism and creative writing at Watkins Mill High School in Gaithersburg.
“It’s been fun to share the behind-the-scenes process with my creative writing students,” Confino said. “Many of those kids want to see their work in print one day, so being able to explain the process of finding an agent, submitting their work, and what the editing process looks like has been exciting.”
“I wish I had someone with that kind of insider knowledge when I started out, so I’m happy to be that resource for my students,” she added. The Rockville native wrote what she knew when she set her novel in Montgomery County and Washington, D.C., with her main character living in Bethesda and working in D.C.
“I liked the idea of setting it somewhere familiar,” Confino said. “I hate when you’re reading or watching something set in D.C. and the characters go to the Georgetown Metro Station or say the exit number instead of name on the Beltway.”
For the Love of Friends follows 32-year-old Lily Weiss through her journey as a bridesmaid in five different weddings within six weeks. To cope with the mom-zillas, expenses, babysitting her grandma, and her own love life – or lack thereof – Lily turns to her anonymous blog, Bridesmania, which can only stay anonymous for so long.
The novel, which is out today from Lake Union Publishing, was named as “One of the 25 Best Books of Summer 2021” by Frolic and early readers are comparing it to Mean Girls, Bridesmaids, 27 Dresses, and Bridget Jones’ Diary. Library Journal called it, “An appealing debut with depth and heart that fans of Jennifer Weiner will enjoy.”
The premise for Confino’s novel came from her “complete lack of wedding knowledge when it came to planning [her] own wedding,” Confino said. “I saw the stress of it all from the other side and realized that there was a story behind some of the more outlandish things that happened when I was a bridesmaid.”
For the Love of Friends is the first of a two book-deal Confino signed. Her second novel will debut sometime in 2022 and features characters readers will meet in this novel.
“I just finished the first draft, and it brings in Lily’s grandmother, a fan favorite from For the Love of Friends and gives her a backstory with one of Lily’s cousins,” Confino said.
For the Love of Friends is available now, wherever books are sold.
Recent Stories
Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, an acute-care hospital in eastern Montgomery County, is adding patient beds to increase its ability to serve patients from across the Washington, D.C., region…
MCPS High School Sports Scores for May 06, 2024:
The Office of Governor Wes Moore issued the following news release on Monday, May 7:
On Sunday we reported on Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) and Rockville City Police responding to a collision involving a vehicle into a tree at the intersection of…
FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.
Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.
This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
