Title: Great
Author: Sara Benincasa
First published April 8, 2014
263 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780062222695 (ISBN10: 0062222694)
Rating: 3.53
Overview
Sara Benincasa’s Great is a contemporary adaptation of The Great Gatsby that delves into the scandalous lives of the rich and famous. Naomi Rye, a teenager, dreads her usual summer spent with her socialite mother in East Hampton, where she feels like an outsider in the established teenage community.
But her attention shifts to her mysterious neighbor, Jacinta, who is interested in meeting the stunning Delilah Fairweather. However, Jacinta has a massive secret that could undo everything.
Naomi is soon pulled into the lies and deception that surround Jacinta and her world, forcing her to make a decision about her involvement. Great, steeped in Benincasa’s darkly comic voice, is a thrilling modern twist on a classic that will leave readers captivated with all the drama, glitz, and romance.
About the Author
Meet Sara Benincasa, a talented comedian and author with an impressive collection of books including “Real Artists Have Day Jobs” (William Morrow 2016), “DC Trip” (Adaptive Books 2015), “Great” (2014), and “Agorafabulous!: Dispatches From My Bedroom” (William Morrow 2012). Her book “Agorafabulous!” is based on her highly acclaimed solo show that delves into the topic of panic attacks and agoraphobia.
Currently, Sara is working on adapting her book “DC Trip” into a film with the help of producers Albert Berger, Ron Yerxa, Van Toffler, and Adaptive Studios. Berger and Yerxa are the masterminds behind hit films like “Little Miss Sunshine,” “Nebraska,” and “Election.” Meanwhile, Sara is also developing a TV pilot for “Agorafabulous!” with executive producers Diablo Cody, ABC Studios, and Ben Stiller’s Red Hour Television.
With her impressive repertoire and exciting projects in the works, Sara Benincasa is definitely one to watch.
Editoral Review
Sara Benincasa’s ‘Great’ is a witty and thought-provoking novel that provides a fresh perspective on the often-difficult transition from adolescence to adulthood. This coming-of-age tale is filled with unmistakable charm and heart, offering readers of all ages something to ponder on.
The author, a comedian, writer, and social commentator, provides a unique point of view, weaving in humor and satire into the story. The book’s setting is modern-day America, and it deals with prevalent issues like social media obsession, the culture of celebrity, and societal pressures on young people.
‘Great’ tells the story of Naomi Rye, a teenage girl who has lost her way in life. Desperate to change the direction of her life, she enrolls herself into a summer school program.
What follows is a witty and thought-provoking journey of self-discovery, as Naomi navigates various adult-like situations, from sexual exploration to workplace politics, all while battling her self-doubt and mental health issues. Benincasa’s writing style is sharp and humorous, successfully balancing the novel’s serious themes with witty, laugh-out-loud moments.
She skillfully develops Naomi’s character and takes the reader on a roller-coaster ride of emotions, from tense climaxes to heartwarming resolutions. One of the most striking things about the book is the way the author deals with relevant themes like mental health, race, and gender, without becoming preachy or condescending.
The issues are woven into the story seamlessly and add a welcome depth to the characters and their struggles. Despite its many strengths, the book is not without its limitations.
At times, the pacing is slow, and the story flounders, leaving the reader feeling disconnected from the characters. Additionally, some of the secondary characters, while interesting, do not seem to add much to the plot.
Despite these minor quibbles, ‘Great’ is a fantastic read that will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a smart, funny, and incisive commentary on modern life that never takes itself too seriously.
It will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or out of place in the world. In conclusion, ‘Great’ is a beautifully crafted novel with a unique voice and a refreshing perspective.
It’s a must-read for anyone looking for an escape from the monotonous and unrelenting chaos of modern life. Highly recommended.
4/5 stars.
