Zibby Mag

Book jacket biographies don’t tell us nearly enough about the authors we love. That’s why Zibby Mag launched the Author Snapshot, giving readers an inside look at the lives and work of our favorite writers.

This week we’re spotlighting author, public speaker, and mental health advocate Annaliese Lawton, who released her first book, Welcome to the Jungle, in September 2022.

What inspired you to write Welcome to the Jungle: A Frantic Journey Through Motherhood and Self Discovery?

In 2018, while recovering from surgery, I spontaneously wrote a 300-word post on Facebook about the shortfalls of women’s postpartum and mental health. A tumor had just been removed from my parotid gland, which threatened paralysis of my face—the only remaining piece of my identity since becoming a mother. I couldn’t understand why the post-op care for that surgery was kinder and more compassionate than my recent C-section. As a mom who experienced two high-risk pregnancies and life-threatening postpartum depression, I felt left out to dry after having my babies. So, with drowsy post-surgery courage, I wrote about it.

Almost immediately, my phone started pinging, and the next thing I knew, the post was viral. The content was so simple, and yet it highlighted complicated conversations women have never really had. I had to keep the conversation going.

What books are on your nightstand right now?

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune.

Where is your go-to place to write?

Anywhere cushiony and cozy: the couch or bed is a popular choice. Usually with a dog somewhere in the mix.

What is your favorite independent bookstore?

A Different Drummer Books—a charming little bookstore in my hometown (with over 50 years under its belt).

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

If you don’t know me, you’d probably drop your jaw hearing my life story. However, since it’s all in a book now—probably that I’ve never tried Nutella? As an Italian, I think that’s a pretty big deal.

What are you working on right now?

My family. This year was hectic. I birthed a book while raising three kids, 5 and under. We got a puppy. We did a renovation. I went back to work full-time and then quit working full-time. Some days, I sit and stare at the wall. Some days, I cook a homemade meal. But overall, I’m recuperating from taking on too much this year.

What are your goals or intentions for 2023?

Lean into those feelings of “yes” and steer clear of “no.” I fear regret and missed opportunities. But if I’ve learned anything in my crash course to life these past six years, it’s that you never know what tomorrow holds. Feeling comfortable in contentment trumps feeling frazzled while chasing (or even being in) success.