91-year old writes novel on aging, retirement

   MONROE — At a time of life when most people have been retired for decades, former children’s book author Jan Slepian, 91, has started a brand new chapter in her writing career.
   A best-selling author for children and young adults, Ms. Slepian has found a new audience among a demographic that often is overlooked. She writes now for her peers and neighbors, people who have made new homes, new lives and new friends in retirement communities like Monroe Village.
   ”Astonishment: Life in the Slow Lane,” Ms. Slepian’s self-published novel, is a series of meditations on aging and life in a retirement community. A follow-up second book is in the final stages and almost ready for release.
   Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Monroe Village, together with her illustrator, Laura Schreiber, Ms. Slepian will discuss the book, read excerpts and sign copies.
   Ms. Slepian, who lives in a retirement community in Maplewood, said she is looking forward to her visit to Monroe Village, which is at 1 David Brainerd Drive.
   ”I can’t tell you how rewarding it is to hear my peers tell me I’m talking in their voice,” she said.
   She hopes her audience will have a chance to laugh and perhaps to gain a new view on life.
   ”I tell them life is still surprising,” she said. “Look at me. I’m 91.”