Bio

Judging Noa is Michal Strutin’s debut novel. She is now working on a mystery series set in the Late Renaissance. Michal’s award-winning nonfiction focuses on natural and cultural history and travel. Her eight nonfiction books include Places of Grace: the Natural Landscapes of the American Midwest with photographer Gary Irving; Discovering Natural Israel, a high-spirited discovery of flora, fauna, and people; Florida State Parks: a Complete Recreation Guide; and History Hikes of the Smokies.

Michal’s articles have appeared in the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Tablet, Outside, and many others. She worked as an editor at National Parks, Outside, San Francisco Examiner, and The Washington Post, and copy editor at Rolling Stone. She is also a research librarian, most recently serving as science librarian at Santa Clara University.

 

Historical fiction intrigues me. I love the research, discovering amazing lives and amazing facts in any age. I also love the resonance between the dilemmas of people then and now. People haven’t changed much. Despite the differences in technologies and material culture, the problems of then are often similar to the problems of now.

When I’m writing and get stuck on a scene, my go-to solution is weeding. I’m a passionate gardener. Since I’m also passionate about healthy ecosystems, I’ve planted native gardens wherever I’ve lived. My husband and I now live in the Bay Area to be close to kids and grandkids. Now when we travel, it’s for new experiences. I especially like traveling to places where I can encounter other cultures, places that take me a little bit out of my comfort zone. When I’m in my comfort zone, I’m hiking, birdwatching, or relaxing with family and friends.