Finished Farewell, Dorothy Parker by Ellen Meister. I received a copy from the publisher on Edelweiss.
Summary (from Goodreads):
“When it comes to movie reviews, critic Violet Epps is a powerhouse voice. But that’s only because she’s learned to channel her literary hero, Dorothy Parker, the most celebrated and scathing wit of the twentieth century.
If only Violet could summon that kind of strength in her personal life.
Gripped by paralyzing anxiety, Violet visits the Algonquin Hotel in an attempt to pull strength from the hallowed dining room, where Dorothy Parker and so many other famous writers of the 1920s traded barbs. But she gets more than she bargained for, and the feisty spirit rematerializes . . . hitching a ride onto Violet’s already troubled life.
An irreverent ghost with problems of her own—including a refusal to cross over to the afterlife—Mrs. Parker helps Violet face her fears, becoming mentor, tormentor, and, with any luck, friend.
Wickedly funny and surprisingly poignant, Farewell, Dorothy Parker perfectly re-imagines one of America’s most iconic voices in a touching and unforgettable tale.”
I think this is one of the best premise for a novel ever. I absolutely love Dorothy Parker (and have ever since I discovered her in high school) and the chance to have her as a roommate for a while? YES PLEASE.
I mean, yes, she’s acerbic and probably not the easiest person to live with but she’s so clever and wise and just right about everything ever.
I was a little nervous going in because (like probably all of Mrs. Parker’s fans) I feel so proprietary over her (does that even make sense?) and I was like, “What if Dorothy Parker the character doesn’t seem like Dorothy Parker the person?” But I absolutely loved the character in this book. She was just like my idea of Dorothy Parker. :)
If you haven’t already read Dorothy Parker, you can absolutely still read this book. But be warned: there’s no way you won’t want to read all of her poetry and short stories (and reviews) once you finish.
Recommended.
Another one on the list. If I had children, your book recommendations would be responsible for their shoelessness. ;-)
Best compliment ever!
Seriously, Kel. If not for your reviews (and your nagging ;-) ), I might never have read a YA book other than TFiOS. You introduced me to Griffin, to Anna & her bloody prom dress, to Macon and Ridley (my two fave characters from that series). I don’t read every novel you recommend, but I’ve learned how to identify things that would hook me. Even without your specific recommendations, I’ve found and devoured other YA Paranormal series, some of which I adored. It’s a genre that I never would have touched. Now all I have to do is finish our evil YA Paranormal book, then we’ll have to go do book shows and signings. Meaning you will, because I’m not leaving my sandbar. ;-)
Anyway. I don’t know if people tell you “thanks” enough, so I figured I’d gush at you a little bit. Happy Friday.