Q & A with author Mahshid Hager and Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications

SJF: In a nutshell, tell us about your book or written piece.
MH: My book is a memoir, based on the true story of my family’s escape out of Iran after the Iranian revolution. It is a story about sacrifice, courage, and resiliency, and my hope is that it will answer the broader question of why families take such tremendous risks to cross borders into unknown territories.

SJF: What has your experience been as a writer in San Diego?
MH: I have really enjoyed the writing community in San Diego. People like Marni Freedman, Tracy Jones, and everyone else at San Diego Writers, Ink and the San Diego Memoir Writers Association, have been so supportive and encouraging. I have made some really good friends in the community. In addition to that, San Diego is just such a perfect place for writing. The scenery lends itself well to any writer looking for some inspiration.

SJF: How has storytelling influenced your life?
MH: I have become acutely aware of the power of storytelling. As a therapist especially, I can appreciate the way that storytelling can allow us to process old memories in a more present and grounded way. This is really the first time in my life that I am looking back at my family’s history and writing about it. It has taken 37 years (and lots of therapy) to be brave enough to do so. And now, through my story, I am hoping to make the unfamiliar more accessible to others. I want to share my story because I want to bridge gaps and bring about understanding and compassion. Stories allow us to step into each other’s lives and to expand beyond our comfort zones to connect with each other.

SJF: If you had a magic wand, what kind of opportunities would be available to writers in San Diego?
MH: More opportunities like this festival! More read-and-critique opportunities. Maybe some writing retreats in the nearby mountains. I’d love a place or space where writers can regularly meet and just write together and then maybe have a night where all those writers who want to can share their favorite writing of the week. Something easy and informal.

SJF: What are you excited about when it comes to participating in the inaugural San Diego Writers Festival?
MH: Well, first of all, it is always exciting to be part of birthing something new. My hope is that the Writers Festival will expand opportunities for lesser-known writers and that it can showcase works that really matter in our world today. The festival was dreamt up and created by a group of fierce, passionate people who are not just interested in writing but also have a vision for their community and our society. I’m grateful for them and their dedication and I’m honored to play a small role in this event.

SJF: What advice would you give to a new writer in San Diego?
MH: Don’t give up! Keep writing. Your story matters and is needed. There are so many resources that can help you stay on track and achieve your goals. Writing can be a solitary activity and it can feel hard and lonely sometimes, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There is great community here that is ready to welcome you. Keep stepping forward.

SJF: Many thanks, Mahshid!

Learn More about Mahshid Hager
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Learn More about Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications