Why people recommend it
The Vixen by Francine Prose is a historical novel set in 1950s New York that follows a young Harvard graduate editing a controversial book about Ethel and Julius Rosenberg amidst anticommunist hysteria. On an episode of The Book Review titled Clint Smith on ‘How the Word Is Passed” broadcast on 2024-07-18, guest Elizabeth Harris discussed the novel during a segment about recent literary releases. Harris announced to the audience that she had just finished reading The Vixen by Francine Prose, noting that the publication was timed alongside an upcoming profile of the author scheduled for the following week. She described the narrative as a book touching upon Ethel Rosenberg and the CIA, while emphasizing its humorous tone. Prose's novel blends historical elements with sharp wit, offering readers a darkly comic look at mid-century American politics, publishing, and paranoia. Harris's enthusiastic mention provided listeners with a timely recommendation of a work that successfully marries historical intrigue with satirical social commentary, reflecting the engaging breadth of contemporary fiction discussed on the program by publishing professionals and critics.
Who recommended it
- Elizabeth Harris Recommended
Elizabeth Harris — 1 mention
“I just finished the Vixen by Francine Pros which we have a profile of her coming out next week um which is a book about Ethel Rosenberg the CIA and it's hilarious”