Della Leavitt joins the Author Spotlight to discuss her debut novel, Vivian’s Decision
Author Name: Della Leavitt
Book Title: Vivian’s Decision: A Novel
Book Genre: Historical Fiction
Release Date: April 14, 2026
Welcome, Della! How would you describe Vivian’s Decision?
Vivian Jacobson is beyond overwhelmed caring for four young children in a 1956 Chicago suburb. An unexpected fifth pregnancy propels her and her loving husband Mel to agonize over an impossible decision that her Jewish immigrant mother and many women have faced before.
What sparked the idea for this book?
I’d always been curious about the life of my Russian Jewish immigrant grandmother who died before I was born. She bore seven children, five in their flat on Chicago’s West side in the first decades of the 20th century. Each of her seven offspring named a child in her memory. I wondered if Grandmother Della’s lack of control over childbearing shortened her life and began to imagine and investigate women’s constraints in 1920s America.
What drew you to writing women’s fiction?
For 30 years, I was a member of a women’s book group where we read only women authors and never repeated an author. I’ve long been attracted to reading novels about resilient women who carry on amid the extraordinary hurdles of everyday life. It was natural that when I began to write such female characters emerged.
Fans of which authors or books might gravitate toward your book?
Fans of authors Marisa Silver’s and Tessa Hadley’s novels and short stories will enjoy reading Vivian’s Decision.
What do you hope readers will take away from this story?
Whether or not to have an abortion is a deeply personal, difficult decision; one that should not be dictated by law.
Any words of wisdom you give your pre-published writer self (or to a new writer)?
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different Points of View and backstory options until you find the structure that fits your novel. If you have a story that only you can tell, persevere and find a way to bring it into the world. Readers need to hear your voice.
What are your interests outside of writing and reading?
Attending theatre productions, movies, art exhibits, learning about architecture.
Are you working on a new project? Please tell us about it.
I working on a new novel project featuring two secondary characters from Vivian’s Decision that have sparked great interest from readers. Vivian’s older, unmarried sister, Ethel Kolson, and “Aunt” Ruthie Lavin, Vivian’s immigrant mother’s American-born, bohemian family friend. The new novel takes place in the 1930s when Aunt Ruthie introduces 18-year-old Ethel to the artsy, non-conformist Chicago neighborhood known as Towertown.
What was the last book that stuck with you? Why did it make such a lasting impression?
Kin by Tayari Jones is a vivid portrayal of two motherless, African American “cradle friends” who grew up together in a small Louisiana town during the Jim Crow era. As young adults, their lives diverge, but the bonds between them are unbreakable. Jones writes with vivid, poetic language and dialogue, intensifying the impact of Vernice (Niecy) and Annie’s relationship. Kin gives new meaning to Sisterhood.
Where can readers find you?
Facebook, Instagram: @DellaLeavitt
June 16, 2026: Author event. Beth Chaim synagogue, Danville, CA, promoted by Rakestraw Books. RSVP required.
Sunday, September 13, 2026: Printer’s Row Bookfair. Chicago. She Writes Press booth.
November 22, 2026: Sunday Salon Chicago. Roscoe Books. 2142 W. Roscoe. Chicago. 60618
Thank you, Della! Vivian’s Decision is out NOW.
Vivian’s Decision
An evocative work of historical fiction, Vivian’s Decision is an all too relevant story of repeated history, female friendship, and the strength that it takes to make choices of one’s own.
Vivian Jacobson is distraught to be pregnant again. Already drowning in the demands of her four young children, she can’t imagine adding a fifth to her brood. Her husband, Mel, is a devoted partner, but he works long days in his family’s Maxwell Street tavern—leaving Vivian isolated and overwhelmed in their suburban Chicago home.
When Vivian pleads with Mel to let her ask her trusted obstetrician for an abortion, Mel reluctantly agrees. Her doctor won’t risk his license, but refers her to someone who will. Once she finds herself in the sleazy abortionist’s disgusting makeshift flat, she can’t go through with the procedure. As she flees, the man warns her that the clock is ticking: If she wants this abortion, she must return within one week.
As Vivian struggles with what to do, she is buffeted by a series of revelations, including her Jewish immigrant mother’s parallel secret. Ultimately, she must find the courage to make the decision that is best for her family—and her own fulfillment.
Author Bio:
Della Leavitt began an intensive pursuit of the art of writing fiction in 2013 after careers in technology and mathematics education. She won a historical novel fellowship from the Newberry Library and a grant from the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) to work on her debut novel, Vivian’s Decision (She Writes Press, April 2026). Della lives in Chicago with her family.