Online for Authors Episode 6-13-24

​Her Latest Chapters: A 101-Year-Old's Historical Fiction Journey with Author Babette Rosen Hughes

My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Babette Rosen Hughes, a 101-year-old author of the book Lessons in Evil. Born in Cleveland Ohio, Babette grew up in the time of Prohibition and bootleggers. Her father was one of the first rum runners in the country and was murdered by the Mafia in a turf war at the age of 29. Babette was just two at the time. Writing has allowed her to draw from her unusual life experiences to create her characters and tell their stories (and sometimes cautionary tales) in vivid detail. 

Listen to Audio Version

Watch Video Version

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with the remarkable Babette Rosen Hughes, author of the novella Lessons in Evil, on the Online for Authors podcast. At 101 years young, Babette still writes every day with the fluidity and grace of a woman half her age. Her passion for storytelling and zest for life are truly inspiring!

In Lessons in Evil, Babette weaves a captivating tale about Annie Berg, an author tasked with writing the unofficial biography of famous writer Helga Hoffman. Despite her misgivings about Helga's dismissive personality, Annie takes on the project in hopes of restarting her career. But things quickly go sideways as Annie finds herself entangled in a Nazi-hunting investigation.

During our conversation, Babette shared fascinating insights into her creative process and the power of the unconscious mind in shaping stories. As a Jewish woman who grew up in the time of prohibition and bootleggers, Babette brings a unique perspective to her writing. When I asked about her research process, she quipped, "I'm 101. I lived through so much of the cultural themes - the Great Depression, World War II, the 50s. This is my research, because I was there!"

Babette's journey as a writer began in her 80s, proving that it's never too late to pursue your passions. Her advice for aspiring authors? "Be realistic. Understand how difficult it is to write well and how much time it takes. And tap into your unconscious - that's where the good stuff is!"

While Babette isn't currently working on a new project due to macular degeneration, her vibrant spirit and wealth of experience continue to inspire. As she wisely noted, "People give up when they get older. It's wrong - it's just the culture. These can be the best years!"

I hope Babette's story encourages you to embrace creativity at any age and to draw upon the well of your own life experiences in your writing. You can find Lessons in Evil and Babette's other works on Amazon (Paperback and ebook).

P.S. Catch the full episode with Babette Rosen Hughes on the Online for Authors YouTube channel or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

​As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.