All That I’m Asking
A Novel by Ellen Halter
New York City. 1968. A young woman searching for her voice in a country struggling to find its own.
In the summer of 1968, twenty-year-old Alice Kaplan’s life changes almost overnight. After fighting off an assault by her boss and suddenly losing her father, she is forced to leave college and enter a working world where opportunities for young women are painfully limited.
Grieving but determined to become a writer, Alice finds her way into the tumultuous world of a countercultural New York City newspaper. Against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, second-wave feminism, and the emerging gay rights movement, All That I’m Asking is a coming-of-age story about resilience, independence, and finding the courage to claim one’s own voice.
Praise For All That I’m Asking
“Unsettlingly timely…and resonant.”
— Kim Fairley, author of Swimming for My Life and Shooting Out the Lights“…immediate, intimate, and real”
— Karen Simpson, author of Act of Grace“Anyone looking for a coming-of-age novel about a strong female lead finding her voice will want to pick this one up.”
— Jennifer Senick, Readers’ Favorite
About the Story Behind the Story
All That I'm Asking grows out of my New York City roots and the political awakening I experienced during the turbulent 1960s. I wanted to return to an era when questions about women's rights, war, government power, identity, and justice were reshaping the country—and explore them through a young woman who is still discovering who she is and what she is willing to stand for.
Book Details
Published: September 15, 2026
Publisher: Rootstock Publishing
Paperback: 5.25 × 8
Paperback ISBN: 978-1-57869-231-6
eBook ISBN: 978-1-57869-232-3
Book Launch
Saturday, September 26
4 – 6 pm
AADL – Pittsfield Branch
2359 Oak Valley Drive, A2
Book Reading
Thursday, November 12, 2026
5:45 – 7:15 pm
Jewish Community Center
2935 Birch Hollow Drive, A2
Book Ellen
If you would like to book Ellen for a book discussion at your club, organization, or group - Reach out via this contact page or email her directly.