👉 Start Your Adventure with Don’t Forget to Write Today
Introduction
Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of the Jersey Shore in 1960, Don’t Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino is a delightful coming-of-age tale laced with wit, wisdom, and a bold dash of rebellion. With her signature blend of humor and heart, Confino once again crafts a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is entertaining. At the center of it all is Marilyn Kleinman—a young woman standing at the crossroads of tradition and independence—whose summer promises to be anything but ordinary.
Plot Overview
Marilyn’s summer begins with scandal—caught in a compromising moment with the rabbi’s son, she’s exiled to her Great-Aunt Ada’s home to lay low and restore her family’s reputation. But what starts as punishment soon becomes a transformative experience. Aunt Ada isn’t the quiet septuagenarian Marilyn expected. She’s a Hermes-clad, Cadillac-driving, straight-talking force of nature with strong opinions and a hidden past. As the summer unfolds, Marilyn is swept into Ada’s chaotic world of matchmaking, martinis, and meaningful lessons about life, love, and identity.
Character Exploration
Marilyn is a richly layered protagonist. Caught between societal expectations and personal desires, her journey from passive teen to assertive young woman is inspiring. Her internal growth is matched by a colorful supporting cast, none more captivating than Ada. Wise, fearless, and unapologetically herself, Ada steals the show—both in the book and in readers’ hearts. The chemistry between the two is electric, brimming with comedic timing and genuine affection. Their evolving relationship is the novel’s emotional core.
Thematic Elements
At its heart, Don’t Forget to Write is about female empowerment, intergenerational wisdom, and the freedom to choose your own path. It explores the tension between tradition and modernity, particularly for women navigating societal expectations. Confino doesn’t shy away from difficult topics—sexuality, reputation, autonomy—but she tackles them with humor and heart, making this book as thoughtful as it is funny. It’s a celebration of finding your voice, even when it breaks all the rules.
Writing Style and Pacing
Sara Goodman Confino’s writing sparkles with wit and vivacity. Her dialogue is snappy and intelligent, capturing the rhythm of real conversation while injecting it with clever turns of phrase. The pacing is breezy, making it easy to devour the novel in one or two sittings. Yet, beneath the humor lies a poignant emotional arc that gives the story depth. The author’s ability to balance laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt revelations is what elevates the book from a fun read to a memorable literary experience.
Critical Reception
With over 65,000 Goodreads ratings and an average of 4.5 stars, Don’t Forget to Write has earned glowing praise from readers. Fans of historical fiction, women’s fiction, and coming-of-age novels appreciate its blend of nostalgia and modern relevance. Critics and readers alike have highlighted Confino’s gift for creating authentic characters and capturing the nuances of human relationships. Many have compared her style to that of Elinor Lipman and Jennifer Weiner, noting her unique voice and emotional intelligence.
Conclusion
Don’t Forget to Write is more than just a summer read—it’s a testament to the power of self-discovery, the wisdom of unconventional mentors, and the magic of taking risks. Whether you’re a fan of witty banter, richly drawn characters, or stories that celebrate the strength of women, this novel delivers on every front. It’s heartfelt, hilarious, and wholly unforgettable.
