Online for Authors Episode 4-22-25

​Sips and Stories: A Journey Through Bulgaria’s Rich Culture with Author Ellis Shuman

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Ellis Shuman, author of the book Rakiya - Stories of Bulgaria. Ellis is an American-born Israeli author, travel writer, and book reviewer.

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If you've ever been curious about lesser-known corners of the world, this episode of the Online for Authors podcast is your perfect invitation. In an engaging and insightful interview, author Ellis Shuman takes listeners on a journey through his collection of short stories, Rakiya: Stories of Bulgaria—and into the soul of a country often overlooked on the traveler's map.

What’s Inside the Podcast

A Deep Dive into Rakia: Stories of Bulgaria
Ellis introduces his collection of twelve short stories, all set in Bulgaria. The stories are a mix of perspectives, from native Bulgarians to foreigners experiencing the country for the first time. As Ellis says, “Bulgaria is one of the main characters in my book.” Through vivid depictions of mountains, churches, food, and culture, listeners get a rich sense of place that goes beyond typical travel writing.

Why Bulgaria?
Listeners will learn about Ellis’s two-year stay in Sofia, Bulgaria, and how the experience sparked a lifelong connection and creative inspiration. His background—an American living in Israel—brings a unique lens to his storytelling. Bulgaria’s natural beauty and cultural richness left such an impression that it continues to shape his work even years later.

The Art of the Short Story
Ellis talks about his preference for short fiction, comparing it to a "palate cleanser" that allows for focused creativity. He shares the challenges of getting short stories published and how each story in Rakia first found its home in a literary magazine before becoming part of the book.

Highlights from the Stories
One standout is “Forgiveness,” a historically rooted piece about Bulgaria’s little-known role in protecting its Jewish population during WWII. Another is the title story, which centers around a village rakiya-making competition—a potent introduction to Bulgaria’s national drink and culture.

Personal Stories and Character Insights
The podcast also explores the characters Ellis creates, including a particularly memorable one—a Roma mother-daughter pickpocket team. Ellis strives to bring authenticity and humanity to every figure he writes, whether they're locals or visitors.

A Love Letter to Bulgaria
Perhaps the most compelling takeaway is Ellis’s hope that his stories inspire others to visit Bulgaria. Through his fiction, he aims to elevate awareness of a country rich in history, nature, and tradition. “If even one reader adds Bulgaria to their travel list, I feel I’ve succeeded,” he says.

Tune In If You Want To:

• Travel vicariously through richly drawn fiction
• ​Discover the beauty and complexity of Bulgaria
• Hear from an author who blends global experiences with heartfelt storytelling
• Be inspired to pick up the pen—or book a flight!

To keep this book conversation going, head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free copy of Rakiya!

Purchase Rakiya - Stories of Bulgaria on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3RwLK1L
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4ja3EU6

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.