Author Peter Lovenheim: 'In the Neighborhood' November 17, 2010

After a tragic murder-suicide in his neighborhood, Lovenheim feels compelled to learn if closer relationships among neighbors might have saved a woman from death. The cultural study that follows is as much about sociology as it is about simple friendship as Lovenheim wonders why people can live side-by-side and know literally nothing about each other. He engages in long conversations both with those he has known for years and others he has never met. A retired doctor, harried real-estate agent, workaholic consultant, pathologist, radiologist fighting cancer, dog walkers, and others allow him into their homes and, at least a little bit, their hearts. He meets families and pets and witnesses daily routines, asking repeatedly just what it is that makes a place a home and a street more than merely an address. He reaches out and finds others also searching for connection and longing for what used to be. Lovenheim advances ideas about isolation in the modern world, and why a welcoming front porch is needed now more than ever.

Lovenheim has written for the New York Times, USA Today and New York Magazine and has appeared on NPR, Larry King Radio and more than 50 other radio and TV programs. The screen rights to "In the Neighborhood: The Search for Community on an American Street, One Sleepover at a Time" were recently purchased by Julia Robert's production company.

Official Website: http://www.paloaltojcc.org