New York Times bestselling author Kristin Hannah shared the unique journey behind her latest book, "The Women." The book depicts the war experience and the challenging transition back to civilian life from the perspective of a young Army nurse. Hannah explores the brutal realities of serving a nation that prefers your disappearance.

Hannah held a deep desire to explore the Vietnam War for three decades. Recalling her childhood during the war, she shared a personal connection as the father of her friend, a pilot, went missing in action. His memory profoundly impacted her so much that she started wearing a prisoner-of-war bracelet with his name.

Honoring Vietnam Veterans Through Research

To research for "The Women," Hannah met with Vietnam veterans, particularly women who served at the 30th anniversary of the Vietnam Women's Memorial in Washington, D.C. Their resilience inspired her. 

Diane Carlson Evans, a combat nurse in Vietnam and author of "Healing Wounds," played a crucial role as Hannah's primary adviser for the novel. Evans shared her experiences, highlighting the challenges women who served in Vietnam faced and the fight for recognition.

The idea for this novel traces back to 1996 or 1997, when she first presented it to an editor. However, the conditions were not favorable at that time, and she received advice to accumulate more life experiences and writing expertise. All the pieces finally clicked into place during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the lockdown, Hannah observed the challenges nurses and doctors faced. She realized the nurses' perspective would provide the most insight into the event. This experience triggered the realization that it was time to tell the story of women who went to war. She was ready to delve into the narrative despite the initial setback.

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Hannah drew parallels between the divided atmosphere during the Vietnam War and the contemporary political climate in the United States. The pandemic emphasized the political divisions, connecting her to her youth and reinforcing the relevance of "The Women." 

Literary Influences From Library Discoveries

As a huge supporter of libraries, Hannah reflected on her youth's adventurous moves and how libraries became a constant in her life. She believed that libraries and the characters from the books she borrowed played a crucial role in helping her stay connected during her nomadic childhood.

Hannah recollected how certain novels, including "The Lord of the Rings," influenced her writing growth. She also learned about prose, characterization, and storytelling from notable writers like Pat Conroy, Stephen King, and Anne Rice.

Discussing the unexpected success of "The Nightingale," Hannah acknowledged that it came at a time when she was an established writer. While it brought pressure, she stayed true to herself, avoiding the temptation to replicate success and focusing on her next book.

Hannah is set to discuss "The Women" with bestselling author Adriana Trigiani at an event in Lancaster hosted by the Council of Friends of Public Libraries and Midtown Scholar Books. The excitement around this event is unprecedented, with all 2,150 seats sold out.

"The Women" will be published on February 6.

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