Even as a child, Sunny Hostin, co-host of The View, had a deep love for writing. "I've journaled since I was young, way before it became trendy. I would also make up stories because I absolutely adored the process of writing," she shares with Closer. Although Sunny initially embarked on a career as a lawyer and federal prosecutor, her passion for storytelling eventually steered her toward broadcasting. In 2019, she became a permanent co-host on The View, working alongside legends like Whoopi Goldberg—a path she never imagined she'd take.
Summer Reads with Sunny Hostin
At 54, Sunny hasn't stopped putting pen to paper. Earlier this year, her second novel, Summer on Sag Harbor, hit shelves just in time for beach season. "There's a lot of fun in this book—and yes, there are sex scenes! Joy Behar told me that a great beach read always has to have good sex," Sunny jokes. "It's also historical fiction. I hope readers enjoy learning about history in a fun, engaging way." Her novels celebrate the joy of storytelling while offering a glimpse into lesser-known African-American communities.
Read also:The Esther Williams Nobody Knew A Life Of Resilience And Stardom
Exploring the Trilogy Behind 'Summer on Sag Harbor'
‘Summer on Sag Harbor’ is a sequel to your first novel, ‘Summer on the Bluffs.’
"I always envisioned it as a trilogy—a love letter to the places where I spend my summers. These settings are predominantly African-American communities that don't get much attention. They're private, exclusive, and steeped in history. Living there, I learned so much from the people who have called these places home for generations. It's fascinating stuff, and I wanted to share that with readers."
Does this book pick up where the first one left off?
"It's more like the beginning of a new chapter for Olivia Jones as she starts a fresh life in Sag Harbor. Fans of Summer on the Bluffs were eager to know more about Olivia, which surprised me at first. But their curiosity inspired me to center Summer on Sag Harbor around her journey. While it's helpful to have read the first book, you don't need to in order to appreciate this one. This novel answers the questions readers had and sets the stage for the next installment."
What kind of journey is Olivia on?
Read also:Hoda Kotbs Life Beyond The Spotlight Makeupfree And Loving It
"Olivia's embarking on a personal quest to discover who she truly is—her needs, wants, and desires. It's relatable because many women struggle to ask for what they deserve to feel fulfilled. Along the way, the story tackles issues like gentrification and infidelity. And yes, there will be a third book! I'm about 150 pages into it, and it's set in Highland Beach, Maryland. Readers can expect new characters and fresh perspectives while staying true to the themes of the series."
Balancing a Busy Life with Writing
Is it hard for you to find time to write?
"Other writers often talk about blocking out specific times to write, but I haven't been able to do that. Between raising kids, caring for my husband, managing two dogs, 12 chickens, and a cat, my days are packed. So, I write in the evenings when everyone's asleep. That's when I'm most creative; I'm naturally a night owl. It does cut into my sleep, but it works for me as a working mom. You learn to adapt and make the most of your time."
From Law to TV: Sunny's Career Evolution
Did you always want to be on TV?
"Oh gosh, I didn't dream that big back then. Writing was always my dream. It wasn't until I discovered shows like 60 Minutes and 20/20 that I started thinking, 'Wow, that looks really cool.' I was probably in high school when I began practicing in front of the mirror to see if I could report. But growing up, there weren't many people who looked like me on television. Representation mattered, even if I didn't realize it at the time."
What do you consider your big break?
"Anchoring overnight shows on ABC, like World News Now and America This Morning, was a major turning point. It was tough, though, because my kids were young. I worked at CNN too, and sometimes I'd have segments on Good Morning America. My schedule was brutal—getting to the ABC studio at 8 p.m., working until 6 a.m., then rushing home to get my kids to preschool and kindergarten. It was chaotic, but I made it work."
How Sunny Joined 'The View'
How did it all lead to 'The View'?
"Whoopi Goldberg, like me, is a night owl and an insomniac. She'd watch World News Now late at night and thought I was good. She told the then-executive producer, 'We should try this woman out. She's really talented.' They invited me in for an interview, and the rest is history. It's amazing how things come together when you least expect them."
Is it still hard to balance your career with being a mom?
"Absolutely. My daughter is 16 now, and she needs me more than ever. She wants me at her track meets, helping with her English essays, and just talking—something that's rare with teenagers these days. My son is in his second year of college and still calls me regularly for advice. Balancing everything is tough, but I prioritize what matters most. For me, that's always been my kids and family."
So, it's still hectic.
"I don't believe in this idea of perfect 'work-life balance' that everyone tries to sell. Life is about prioritizing and making choices. For me, family has always come first. Sure, I've missed out on opportunities, but I'm happy with the decisions I've made. At the end of the day, it's about what truly matters."
Shaping Sunny: Lessons from Her Parents
How did your parents influence who you are today?
"Growing up, my home was filled with love and support, even though we didn't have much money. My parents instilled values in me that have stayed with me—kindness, excellence, and always being there for family. Not just biological family, but your chosen family too. As an only child, I've created my own siblings. If they ever need anything, I'm there for them. It's important to be someone people can count on."
What do you do for fun?
"I have some quirky hobbies. I raise chickens and bees—I'm experimenting with flavored honey. Gardening is another passion; it's incredibly peaceful. I'm naturally more introverted, so being alone allows me to reconnect with nature. One day, I'd love to own a bed-and-breakfast or start an animal rescue. In my free time, I'm deeply involved in animal rescues, which brings me so much joy."
Is there anything left on your career bucket list?
"I'm still amazed that I'm on The View and that Summer on the Bluffs is being adapted into a series. It's all surreal. I'd love to produce more content through my own production company. We have several exciting projects in the works, and I can't wait to share them with everyone. Ultimately, I want more opportunities to tell meaningful stories."
