Elsa's Own Blue Zone - America's Centenarian Sweetheart's Insights for Positive Aging and Living

About The Book

Sharon Textor-Black embodies a lifelong interest in writing and of seeking the best philosophies to live by. These two passions collided as her grandmother Elsa Brehm Hoffmann, whom Sharon is very close to, became a national celebrity at age 100. All who meet, or even just hear about stunning and active Elsa, want to know as much as they can about her positive aging and positive living philosophies.

Sharon soon found herself immersed in writing copy about Elsa as her 100th birthday approached in 2007. It started with various local print media and a centenarian website. Then requests came in directly from ABC. Sharon even arranged for Elsa to speak to a very enthusiastic elementary school audience of youngsters. Elsa was interviewed by Barbara Walters on the blockbuster April 2008 longevity special. Dr. Michael Brickey interviewed Elsa on his podcast (agelesslifestyles.com) in August 2008. Mrs. Hoffmann is also featured on centenarian website adlercentenarians.org, and honors have been presented to her from three southeastern Florida cities.

The author’s prior years of documenting family stories, writing some news articles related to positive aging, and even publishing some poetry, were a mere warm-up for the whirlwind Elsa stirred up. As several of these media contacts encouraged Sharon to write more, she made the decision to put it all in book form. She quite naturally took on the task of sharing Elsa’s insights to the delight of Elsa’s fans, and for all those seeking a “real person” example of positive aging and living.

Holding a B.A. in English from Rutgers College of Rutgers University, New Brunswick, Sharon was well-prepared to use the skills learned from there. In addition, she is a Baby Boomer who can easily incorporate how Elsa’s philosophies can help this age group in addition to Seniors.

Sharon worked for almost 20 years in large corporations in the NY and NJ area, but she also held sales jobs in such diverse places as a spa and water park/ski resort. Although some of her corporate jobs were quite fulfilling, such as a Service Specialist at Merrill Lynch in NJ and as part of the Northeast Distribution Center Management Team at Baxter Healthcare in NY, Sharon is most happy now owning and operating a business with her husband Mike in South Florida.

Concentrating on career first, from college graduation through most of her thirties, is something many Boomers can relate to. Sharon did not marry until her late 30’s. At 40, she and her husband Mike started a new business from scratch. At 44, Sharon and Mike adopted two beautiful little girls. She has not let her age deter her from plans others may see as reserved for those years younger. One can see how Elsa’s extraordinary example has definitely enhanced Sharon’s life in big ways.