“Mommie Dearest” was a favorite movie of my mom’s. When I was 7, I remember watching it with her and then shopping in downtown Chicago the next day. I happened to have a black eye at the time and insisted on calling her ‘Mommie Dearest’ everywhere we went. My mom was mortified. I always thought that story was hilarious—until I had kids of my own.

Both of my parents passed away when I was in my early 20s. Since then, I have found that laughter really is the best medicine to help me through difficult times. No Wire Hangers Ever is a collection of irreverent snapshots of my life as an adult orphan, a mother, a wife, and a teacher. It’s lighthearted, saucy and flavored with a love for wine and honest humor. Just like me.

—Eileen