Don’t Forget to Write is a delightful, quick read that I finished in just a few days. Set in 1960, the story follows Marilyn, a bored 20-year-old who finds herself in quite the predicament after an ill-fated makeout session with the rabbi’s son—right in front of the entire congregation, thanks to some poorly placed stained glass. Her punishment? Being shipped off to stay with her Great Aunt Ada, a matchmaker with a Cadillac, an impressive collection of Hermès scarves, and a rebellious streak that shakes up everything Marilyn thought she knew.
As Marilyn navigates life with Ada, she discovers just as much about herself as she does about her unconventional aunt. There are, of course, cute boys along the way, but the heart of the novel is in its exploration of family, identity, and independence. I especially enjoyed all the little details about Jewish culture and 1960s New Jersey.
The world loves to destroy what it doesn’t understand.
“A gilded cage is still a cage. Most people don’t see the bars that hold them.”
Definitely recommend this one for fans of strong women and their stories! I actually enjoyed this more than the first book I read by this author, She’s Up to No Good.
Anna Bushi 