Krasnow is a best-selling author and assistant professor in the School of Communications at American University. She will be holding a discussion and book signing for her new work, “The Secret Lives of Wives: Women Share What It Really Takes to Stay Married,” at Politics and Prose on Wednesday. Why did you decide to write this book?
I wrote it because women are living longer than ever and many of us will be married for 50-plus years. This book offers straight strategies, secrets and solutions for staying married forever.
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What are some of the interesting things you found out?
My seven secrets for staying together. I found out so many things. The biggest secret of all is that when women have their own sense of purpose and passion and identity outside of their marriage, they have a real shot of going distance until death do us part.
What challenges did you face in writing the book?
This is my fifth book. It was a joy to work on. What a blessing to be able to interview 200 generous, provocative, brave, enlightening women on something we all care about — and that is long-term love. I’m a midlife wife. Women in their 20s are writing me and telling me that this book is a must-read for anyone thinking of getting married.
How did you find the women you interviewed?
You ask 10 people if they know anyone in long marriages. … It just mushrooms. Everyone likes to talk about marriage. I’m a journalist; I can find anybody.
What do you hope readers take away from the book?
What I hope readers take away is: Don’t blame your woes on your spouse. Look within yourself for power, strength and happiness. I think anyone who reads this book will gain valuable insight on how to go the distance.
— Emily Babay
