In this episode of Read the Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with author Andromeda Romano-Lax to discuss her novel What Boys Learn. The conversation explores the cultural forces shaping boys today, the influence of motherhood, and how societal expectations impact masculinity and identity. Andromeda also shares insights into her writing process, her work as a book coach, and her transition between genres. Together, they examine the power of fiction and storytelling to illuminate contemporary social issues and spark meaningful conversations.

What We're Talking About...

• Andromeda Romano-Lax is the author of seven books spanning multiple genres, including literary fiction, historical fiction, and thrillers.
• What Boys Learn examines the cultural and social forces shaping boys and young men today.
• The novel explores the influential role of mothers in their sons’ emotional development and identity formation.
• Andromeda’s writing process is deeply rooted in reflection on contemporary societal issues.
• Empathy is central to her approach to storytelling and character development.
• Her transition from historical fiction to thrillers was influenced by her pandemic-era reading habits.
• Andromeda works as a book coach, mentoring writers from diverse backgrounds and genres.
• Fiction can act as a release valve for societal tensions and unspoken anxieties.
• The impact of social media on young men and masculinity is a major concern discussed in the episode.
• Andromeda aims to write across multiple genres, using different storytelling forms to explore complex ideas.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andromeda Romano-Lax

01:06 Exploring Themes in What Boys Learn

06:00 Cultural Influences and Social Media's Role

10:59 Character Dynamics and Story Development

16:51 Genre Exploration and Writing Process

21:08 Coaching Writers and the Importance of Stories

24:53 Reflections on Current Events and Literature's Role

Links Mentioned

Andromeda Roman-Lax's Instagram: @‌romanolax

Order your copy of What Boys Learn: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-boys-learn-andromeda-romano-lax/1147241844