Kittentits: A Novel (Gillian Flynn) By Holly Wilson
Holly Wilson's debut novel, Kittentits, is a feral, heart-wrenching journey through the absurdities of grief and the search for connection. Set in 1992, ten-year-old Molly navigates the unconventional House of Friends with her formerly blind father and grieving housemate, Evelyn. When Jeanie, a rough-around-the-edges ex-con, enters their lives, Molly's infatuation with her grows despite Jeanie's erratic behavior.
After Jeanie fakes her death in a hot-air balloon accident, Molly embarks on a wild escapade to Chicago with stolen credit cards and her trusty LA Gear Heatwaves. Alongside her pen pal Demarcus, Molly plans a séance to reunite with their deceased mothers at the World's Fair on New Year's Eve.
Wilson crafts a bold, absurdist narrative that challenges traditional coming-of-age tropes. Through Molly's eyes, the novel explores themes of loss, grief, and the quest for belonging. Molly's irreverent voice and unyielding determination to connect with her lost loved ones make her a captivating and unforgettable protagonist.
Praise from Gillian Flynn and Kevin Wilson underscores the novel's uniqueness and power. Wilson's writing seamlessly blends humor with poignancy, capturing the messiness and magic of adolescence. Kittentits is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of friendship in the face of tragedy.
With its surreal and provocative narrative, Kittentits offers readers an unforgettable exploration of grief, friendship, and the messy journey of growing up. Wilson's debut announces her as a bold new voice in contemporary literature, unafraid to tackle the complexities of the human experience with wit and heart. 📚❤️