Selected Works
A collection of essays, commentaries and interviews.
A Collection of Essays
Pain | Published in The Sun
A story of a mother and daughter and how to keep going in spite of pain.
River Bottom |
Published in the 34th Parallel
A story about the beauty of the Feather River riparian forest juxtaposed with the shocking acts of human beings.
The Sequoia in the Storm |
Published in California Northern
A story of family, memory and Chiura Obata’s art of resilience.
Tinge of pink |
Published in the Sacramento News & Review
How the first signs of spring can catch us unaware.
Thank You |
Published in Collage #5, The Jazz Issue
A story of everlasting love for Dave Brubeck’s music.
A Collection of Commentaries
The Nativity and the Trailer | The Santa Monica Daily Press
What it was like growing up in Santa Monica as a little Jewish kid with a released-time religious education trailer parked near my elementary school and the annual public Nativity scenes in the park.
Coping with My Child’s Diabetes | NPR’s Day to Day
The day I wore my daughter’s insulin pump.
Opposites Attract | From CapRadio Archives
What draws couples together? Read reflections on the glue that holds opposites together.
Inspirational Octogenarian Sharpshooter | From CapRadio Archives
Different family talents can inspire pride. Read reflections on unusual achievements from relatives on all sides of the DNA line, including a squirrel sharpshooter from Elk Creek.
Finding Family in Unexpected Places | From CapRadio Archives
Where do we find caring relationships in these busy times? Birth families can’t do it all.
Political Lines Melting Over Iraq War | From CapRadio Archives
Many more Americans are moving beyond the influence of political parties to form their opinions of war.
Flood Anniversary Highlights Yuba City Risk |
From CapRadio Archives
Reflections from the Yuba City Flood of 1955.
I Would Not be Here Today | From KCRA-TV, Sacramento NBC Affiliate
Reflections from the Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade.
A Collection of Stories
Storytelling that elevates the voices of our communities.
The following stories by Lyra were performed by Play on Words actors.
Play on Words (POW) is a collaborative literary arts series that unites emerging and established interdisciplinary artists, fiction/theater enthusiasts and curious community members eager to learn more about the processes of creative writing and creating performances.
POW provides an interactive storytelling platform and brings original work to life.
Dressed for Success | Read for Activists Unite
Marching with your parents to protest the Vietnam War can have the unexpected benefit of winning points with a crush.
Drive, She Said | Read in San Jose’s St. James Park
It’s possible for a girl to appreciate a father who drives 45 mph on the freeway while longing for a beautiful fast car without a purpose, speed without a destination.
The Book
A memoir for anyone looking for a story of hope, healing and human endurance.
CALIFORNIA GROWN details growing up in the 1950s and '60s in California, showing how the changes in politics and nature then are similar to today. Lyra’s story gives hope to those fighting today's political and cultural challenges.
Surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and Northern California rivers and farms, but haunted by antisemitism and racism in America, Lyra’s family’s story demonstrates the power of nature to heal and provide joy - even during the darkest of times.
CALIFORNIA GROWN showcases the tenacity of individuals and the responsibility we have to make our communities better for all of us.