Hi, I’m Kerry.

I used to be a reporter in France, then I published a series of novels for pre-teen girls. Now I live in New York City. 

You could describe me as one of those coastal liberals who can’t commit to an opinion without checking The New York Times. 

And you’d be right.  

Basically, I’m only friends with progressive-y people who reinforce my viewpoints. In many ways, America is more foreign to me than France. Glenn Beck, Christian fundamentalism and NASCAR seem totally exotic and wild. I know just one kid who voted for George Bush in 2004. And I thought I didn’t know anyone who had been a member of Future Farmers of America, until my friend Molly set me straight.

What a bummer to be so out of touch with my own country! Or to be the kind of liberal who thinks she’s open-minded because she has a knee-jerk liberal reaction to everything! 

When I lived in France, I studied up on the country like it was my job. (Which, of course it was, given that I was working for a newspaper.) It was fascinating—and I’ve always wanted to be so diligent in knowing more about the USA! USA! USA! 

So this year in the next couple of years, I want to understand my country better. I’m hoping to meet people I wouldn’t ordinarily say, be friends with on Facebook. I’d like to challenge the many assumptions I’ve made about fellow citizens, and maybe become more open-minded along the way. And of course, post the occasional nonsense that makes me happy.