Angelyn Christy Voss
General Fiction, Family Saga & Multicultural
Artist, teacher and author of Stand a Little Out of My Sun, inspired by her early upbringing on the East Side of Chicago within the folds of a colorful Greek American family.
Stand a Little Out of My Sun draws upon Angelyn’s early upbringing on the East Side of Chicago within the folds of a colorful Greek American family. She has taught English Language Learners, Reading and Kindergarten. Angelyn’s novel has been inspired, not only by her background, but also by the many children who have touched her life.
Stand a Little Out of My Sun captures the dramatic crosscurrents of life within the folds of a Greek American family in Chicago’s Industrial Southeast Side during the fifties. It tells the story of Sophie, who becomes the sole protector of her little brother, Niko. Sophie wishes to live with her grandparents with their big passions and abundant love, but Niko idolized their pa. Nine-year-old Niko becomes the newest member of an under-the-table car business run by his pa.
This multigenerational novel exemplifies forgiveness and redemption.
Angelyn belongs numerous writing organizations, and Human Dignity and Humiliation Studies. She has studied art abroad and at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Angelyn lives with her husband, George, in the idyllic university town of Corvallis, Oregon. She has raised three children, has four grandchildren, and is a tap dancer!
For more information, check out her website.
BOOKS:
Stand a Little Out of My Sun (2020)
Biggest literary influences:
Harper Lee, J.K. Rowling, Willa Cather, Kathryn Stockett, Ivan Doig, C.S. Lewis, Victor Hugo, John Steinbeck
Last book read:
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
The book that changed your life:
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a thought provoking, coming-of-age novel that explores themes of acceptance, morality and love. The beauty of this novel is revealed in the easy flow, matter-of-fact conversations that ring with refreshing honesty. The sincere voices of the children, Scout, Jem and Dill rise above everything. The story portrays the innocent perceptions of the children as they discern the goodness and injustices of life.
Atticus Finch leads his children by example and allows them to use their instincts as they explore the world. His respect for others, calm integrity and wisdom are admirable. As a lawyer, he deals with the injustice of racial prejudice and courageously stands up for an innocently accused man.
Every character and scene pulsate with rich description. The author invites readers to see themselves within the remarkable array of personalities. It is a classic that inspires the good in people.
Favorite literary character:
Atticus Finch, Scout and Calpurnia in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. All of these characters have traits I admire.
Atticus portrays an intelligent man of integrity and discernment. He embodies great wisdom with humility, and yet, faces adversity with raw courage. As a lawyer, Atticus represents a young black man who is accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Atticus is a moral man who stands up to prejudice while giving grace to those who need it. He encourages the minds of his young children, Scout and Jem. He is firm, and yet, teaches compromise.
Scout is a very bright girl who knows there is strength in being gentle. She treats others as she wants to be treated. Scout also has a feisty, combative streak and basic faith in the goodness of people.
Calpurnia teaches the children important life lessons of tolerance, kindness and respect for others. Atticus seeks Calpurnia’s wisdom in raising his children. She is a sturdy character who represents a bridge between two worlds.
Currently working on:
Children’s chapter book, Tommy Pocket, and my memoirs as a kindergarten teacher entitled, Madison Elementary.
Words to live by:
Whether it’s on a grand or modest scale, we all seek to replicate beauty in our corner of the world. All creative endeavors enrich the soul. Be grateful and benevolent of heart.
Advice for aspiring authors:
Read excellent writing — children’s books, YA, adult fiction — ALL genres. Move the reader through characters and events, not by the emotion of the narrator. Convince the reader that the events really happened, or that they may have happened. Give the reader a window to look through, to imagine the world outside oneself while providing the reader a mirror as an opportunity to see within. How does the author accomplish that? Depend upon the precision of detail by showing, not telling the reader — “Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” Anton Chekov.
Establish symbolic details to prepare the reader. Slow down – walk and live with the characters and the world they live in.
Persist, refine, be open to learning, and believe in yourself!
ARTICLES AND REVIEWS:
BookTrib Review: A Poignant Look at Forgiveness, Family and the Greek-American Immigrant Experience
BookLife Review: Stand a Little Out of My Sun
Reader’s Favorite’s 5-star Review: Stand a Little Out of My Sun: A Novel of Forgiveness and Redemption
Stand a Little Out of My Sun was highlighted in Publisher’s Weekly Magazine, November 15, 2021 issue.
WINNER of the 2021 National Indie Excellence Award, Category: General Fiction
— Kirkus Reviews
— Maria Karamitsos, blog writer and Greek Chicagoan, Adventures of the WindyCity Greek
