What Jane Green’s Been Reading
in 2016
by the Brightly Editors
Jane Green — bestselling author, regular columnist, trained chef, wife, and mom — doesn’t get a lot of downtime. When she’s not working on a new book (her novel, Falling, was just released and her cookbook, Good Taste, comes out in October), or whipping up something delicious in the kitchen for her family, Jane loves to sneak in some precious pages. We asked her what she’s been reading, and loving, in 2016. Here are the books that topped her list.
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Modern Lovers
Available from:Once again, Emma brings her breezy wit, keen observation, and subtle wisdom to a story of relationships, finding the perfect balance of amusement and smart substance. She tells the story of friends and former college bandmates Elizabeth, Andrew, and Zoe who have managed adult responsibilities while trying to hold on to the identities of their youth. The summer their children reach maturity, secrets are revealed about themselves, and about the famous fourth band member who soared and fell without them. Jane found this book filled with startling realizations and great wit and loved each character’s hilarious and heartfelt story.
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Eligible
Available from:Curtis Sittenfeld’s version of the Bennet family — and Mr. Darcy — is one you haven’t seen before. Jane meets Chip Bingley, a handsome new-in-town doctor, who recently appeared on reality TV dating show “Eligible,” and his friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy, who appears to Liz to be much less charming ... but first impressions can be deceiving. Jane thought this was a fantastic take on a beloved classic that still feels wholly original.
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Sweetbitter
Available from:Stephanie Danler crafts an engrossing story of discovery for Tess who comes to New York in the stifling summer of 2006 alone, knowing no one. She gravitates toward Simone, a waitress who has lived in ways Tess only dreams of, and Jake, the elusive, tatted up, achingly beautiful bartender. Jake and Simone, and their connection to each other, will prove to be Tess’s most exhilarating and painful lesson of all. Jane found it hard to believe a novel this accomplished and cunning could be a writer’s first.
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Here’s to Us
Laurel Thorpe, Belinda Rowe, and Scarlett Oliver despise each other, but share a love for the man they all married, Deacon Thorpe. Deacon's final wish, after his tragic death, was for his makeshift family to assemble at his beloved Nantucket cottage to say goodbye. Through all the drama, these three women undergo a change and learn about forgiveness, friendship, and love. Jane says this is the ultimate summer escape read, perfect for lounging at the beach or by the pool.
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The Girls
Emma Cline tells the story of lonely teenage Evie Boyd who sees a group of carefree-looking girls in the park. She finds their dangerous aura of abandon inviting. Evie sacrifices her innocence for approval and attention, and turns to violence to feel seen and loved. Cline has taken a coming-of-age story and made it into something both new and universal in its incredible power. Jane thought this book was an electric ride that both shocked her and kept her on her toes.
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Kitchens of the Great Midwest
Available from:In J. Ryan Stradal’s Kitchens of the Great Midwest, we move through the years with Eva as she journeys to become a star chef. As she grows up, Eva finds her passion for cooking in the flavors of the Midwest and beyond. Eva’s resilience and genuine love for food will have you eagerly keeping pace with her culinary progression. Jane found this to be a delicious read that will leave you devouring every page — not only is the food in this book mouthwatering, the story is too.
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Books by Jane Green
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