Do you have a bird story or favorite feathered friend?

Yes. The Lilac-Breasted Roller Bird. Google it and be amazed.

What is your most memorable reading experience?

My most memorable reading experience was reading at the Literati Bookstore in Ann Arbor, MI. It was a stop on my book tour and I was able to both move the crowd to silence and laughter. I felt wonderful.

What makes you most excited about This Will Be My Undoing?

Hmmm...besides the reception, it's the warm emails I regularly get from people who enjoyed the book. They are very underrated.

To tweet or not to tweet?

Tweet.

What books do you have in your bag right now?

HEAVY by Kiese Laymon and THE WHITE ALBUM by Joan Didion.

Can you tell us your favorite rejection story?

Yeesh. My favorite rejection story was when I got rejected from The New Yorker about three times and on the fourth try, it led to my first byline there. And I cold-pitched!

What literary journals do you love?

Tin House, The Paris Review, and Granta.

What shakes your tail feathers?

A good Paloma (three parts grapefruit soda, one part tequila) and also when a freelance check arrives via direct deposit earlier than expected.

What advice do you have for fledgling writers?

Don't ask for permission. Write the stories you want to write.

What other eggs do you have in your basket right now?

Two books forthcoming from Harper Books!