Interview with Sandra Block, author of The Girl Without a Name

Here’s the elevator pitch: Zoe Goldman, our intrepid psychiatrist-in-training, is back in action. When a teenage girl is brought in off the streets in a catatonic state, Zoe must find out Jane Doe’s identity before it’s too late. Because someone wants to make sure she never remembers.
I don’t give away any spoilers, so you can read this before Little Black Lies (the first Zoe Goldman book). But some readers have recommended reading them in order. Either way is fine, just as long as you buy both books. 🙂

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A writer – I’m mean it! I took a little doctor detour along the way, but eventually got back to my middle school dreams.

Which books would we be surprised to find on your shelves?

I own every book written about the Red Hot Chili Peppers. And I feel no shame.

How does your career as a neurologist affect your writing?

My current day-to-day work as a sleep doctor doesn’t play much into the books. But my memories of my neurology residency and psych cases certainly do. Those were formative years for me, as well as Zoe.

If you had an extra hour each day, how would you spend it?

I would exercise every single day, not just when I had the chance. I love this Barre class, but only have two days a week to fit it in.

What’s on your writing desk?

This is a trick question, because I have no writing desk. I write on my iPad, anywhere and everywhere – parking lot, coffee shop, kid’s piano lesson or my kitchen table.

What’s rocking your world this month?

The SABRES!!!! Yes, yes, yesssss! They’re back!

What’s your favorite quote or scene from The Girl Without a Name?

My favorite quote is from Leonard Cohen: “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” As Dr. Berringer (one of the main characters) explains, we are all broken, but that’s what makes us human, and beautiful.

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

‘You’re never too old, never too bad, never too late and never too sick to start from the scratch once again.’
– Bikram Choudry
I actually wrote a post on this quote. If you’re feeling inspired – check it out!

Sandra Block is the author of the new book The Girl Without a Name.

Connect with Sandra
Author Website
 Twitter