Now hailed as a “proto-feminist classic” (Vulture), Pulitzer Prize winner Herman Wouk’s powerful coming-of-age novel about an ambitious young woman pursuing her artistic dreams in New York City has been a perennial favorite since it was first a bestseller in the 1950s.
A starry-eyed young beauty, Marjorie Morgenstern is nineteen years old when she leaves home to accept the job of her dreams–working in a summer-stock company for Noel Airman, its talented and intensely charismatic director. Released from the social constraints of her traditional Jewish family, and thrown into the glorious, colorful world of theater, Marjorie finds herself entangled in a powerful affair with the man destined to become the greatest–and the most destructive–love of her life.
Rich with humor and poignancy, Marjorie Morningstar is a classic love story, one that spans two continents and two decades in the life of its heroine.
“I read it and I thought, ‘Oh, God, this is me.'” –Scarlet Johansson
Discover a timeless classic and delve into the vibrant world of Marjorie Morningstar, a captivating novel by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Herman Wouk. More than just a coming-of-age story, this reissue of the 1955 bestseller explores themes of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of artistic dreams against the backdrop of mid-20th century New York City. Often hailed as a "proto-feminist classic," Marjorie Morningstar resonates with readers seeking narratives of strong women forging their own paths. Meet Marjorie Morgenstern, a bright and ambitious nineteen-year-old, yearning to break free from the confines of her traditional Jewish upbringing. When Marjorie secures a coveted summer job with a summer-stock company, she steps into a world that both exhilarates and challenges her. The magnetic pull of Noel Airman, the company's charismatic director, proves irresistible, drawing Marjorie into a passionate and tumultuous relationship. Wouk masterfully portrays Marjorie's journey as she grapples with her desire for artistic fulfillment and the expectations of her family and community. The allure of the theater, the vibrant energy of New York City, and the complexities of love all contribute to Marjorie's evolving sense of self. Readers will be drawn into the sights and sounds of post-war America, experiencing Marjorie's triumphs and heartbreaks alongside her. Marjorie Morningstar is a richly detailed portrait of a young woman navigating the complexities of love, ambition, and self-discovery. It's a story that speaks to the universal desire to find one's place in the world and the courage to pursue one's dreams, even in the face of adversity. This timeless novel continues to captivate readers with its enduring themes and unforgettable characters. Dive into the world of Marjorie Morningstar and experience the story that resonated with Scarlet Johansson, who exclaimed, "I read it and I thought, 'Oh, God, this is me.'" This Back Bay Books edition offers a fresh look at a literary gem that continues to inspire and entertain.