Book · 2023 · nyt:hardcover-fiction=2024-02-18
Good Material
Why people recommend it
Good Material by Dolly Alderton is a sharp and humorous contemporary novel that explores the messy aftermath of a breakup from the perspective of a heartbroken male comedian. On The Book Review, Emily Aken shared that a colleague had recommended the book when she was searching for a comic novel with literary depth. Gilbert Cruz later introduced the book on the podcast as a wildly different and pleasurable contrast to historical fiction selections. The title was also featured as the main selection for a dedicated book club episode, where MJ Franklin provided a detailed plot synopsis alongside insights from Emily Aken and Leah Greenblat. The panel discussed the narrative arc, including the protagonist's professional journey and how the painful dissolution of his relationship inadvertently provides the material for his next artistic breakthrough. Throughout the discussion, the contributors analyzed the author's sharp observational skills regarding modern romance, friendship, and heartbreak. The conversation celebrated the book's ability to balance biting wit with genuine emotional vulnerability, making it a standout contemporary release that generates significant enthusiasm among readers navigating the complexities of modern dating and long-term commitment.
Who recommended it
- Gilbert Cruz Discussed
- MJ Franklin Discussed
- Emily Aken Recommended
Gilbert Cruz — 3 mentions
“let us move to something completely different as different from this book as can possibly be which is good material by Dolly alderton”
“this week he leads a conversation about Dolly alderton's bestselling book good material”
“Emily Aken and Leah greenblat in our book club conversation about Dolly alderton's good material”
MJ Franklin — 3 mentions
“that may change with her new book good material the book we're here to discuss which is getting a little bit buzzier in the states”
“but we're not talking about her entire resume we are talking about specifically the book good material I am going to start off as I am known to do with a little old plot synopsis”
“I'm joined by Emily Aken and Leah greenblat and we're discussing good material by Dolly alderton”
Emily Aken — 2 mentions
“I wanted a literary experience but I wanted a comic novel and good material was recommended by a colleague and I thought huh you not knowing anything about Dolly alderton”
“so that in fact Jen gives him this Incredible Gift professionally by breaking up with him which is the material for his next ACT and I I'm I'm spoiling everything”
Also mentioned in the same episodes
Other mentions (2: passing, ad reads, own books)
“and last but not least we have Emily aen editor extraordinaire here at the book review and she was last year for our good material discussion”
“Barbara King solver's demon Copperhead Dolly alderton's good material and I think a couple of others”