In her many novels, such as The Interestings, The Uncoupling, The Ten-Year Nap, The Position, and The Wife, Meg Wolitzer brings readers deep into the lives of others. A feminist thread runs through Wolitzer’s work, particularly her groundbreaking essay, “The Second Shelf,” an examination of the underrepresentation of women writers. But nowhere is the subject of power more deeply investigated than in her newest novel, The Female Persuasion. Campus assault, intergenerational feminist debate, mentorship, friendship, and ambition make for a timely story, enriched by Wolitzer’s subtle mastery of character. The book confirms Wolitzer’s position as one of the most accomplished writers of our time, and “an infinitely capable creator of human identities that are as real as the type on this page” (Lena Dunham).
Adam Gopnik has been writing for The New Yorker since 1986. His books include Paris to the Moon, Through the Children’s Gate, The Table Comes First, and most recently, At the Strangers’ Gate. He has received three National Magazine Awards and the George Polk Award for magazine writing.