Short Hills Author Releases New Book

Short Hills native and author Dara Horn moved back to her hometown from Manhattan late last year, and now her latest book is hitting the bookstore shelves.

She will launch her new book, "All Other Nights," Wednesday from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at a party at Teddy's Martini Bar & Bistro in Millburn., which is open to the public.

Horn, one of Granta Magazine's Best Young American Novelists for 2007, will be signing and discussing the novel.

This book is historical fiction, and Horn mines the past for characters and settings, specifically Jews and the Civil War. Former gentleman-in-waiting Jacob Rappaport runs away from his traditionalist family and his arranged marriage to join the Union Army. We meet him traveling to New Orleans during Passover to kill his uncle, who is kin to, and supportive of, the Confederate Secretary of State Judah Benjamin. 

The book reflects on the lines between good and bad, which Horn said “don't run between people, but through them.” Facing crisis, her subjects “decide who they are through what they devote themselves to.” The characters assign different values to “family and tradition versus social and racial justice... slavery versus freedom,” Horn said.

The author sees a parallel for choices this country faces now: “We have two competing visions of American life today.  It came out in the last election.” Seeing a polarized country is how the Civil War became fodder for Horn, she said.   

All Other Nights hit the shelves last month to critical acclaim. Her accomplishments already include a 2003 National Jewish Book Award and New York Times Book Review Editor's Choice honors. 

Readers' reactions have been positive, too. Amazon readers' ratings average of 4 out of 5 stars, and reviewers used words like “fascinating”, “gripping” and “compelling.” 

Horn moved back to Short Hills from Manhattan with her husband and three children in December. She admits she is a little surprised that she doesn't miss New York, but said she is at the point in her life—three novels and three children in—that just being able to work from home is nice. 

Horn's parents still live here, which was an attraction. In fact, her family has been in Essex County since the 19^th Century, so Horn feels rooted here. “I drive around town and the memories come back,” she said.   

She guest-lectures frequently, edits books, writes peer-reviews and other periodical articles. She also has a new book in its beginning stages. She used to teach full-time, but that had to go. “It's possible to take care of your children and have a full-time career at the same time, but I don't think it works with two careers,” the author said jokingly.

“I hope people come,” she says of the launch party. “I'd love to meet more people in town. I just moved back and would be excited to get to know readers, potential readers and friends.” 

The launch party is hosted by Jordana Horn, the author's sister, and Teddy Stampoulis.  The book will be available for purchase.