Lauren Grodstein Books In Order

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Collections

Publication Order of Anthologies

About Lauren Grodstein

Lauren Grodstein is an American author and professor based at Rutgers University-Camden who has made a name for herself with her unique approach to storytelling. Known for her talent in creating rich family narratives and well-crafted male characters, Grodstein’s novels captivate readers from start to finish. Her ability to weave engaging plots with relatable characters makes her books both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Grodstein’s work has received significant recognition and praise. Her novel ‘A Friend of the Family’ became a New York Times bestseller and was also selected as a New York Times Editors’ Choice. Additionally, both ‘A Friend of the Family’ and ‘The Explanation for Everything’ were honored as Washington Post Books of the Year. Her earlier work, ‘Girls Dinner Club,’ earned a spot on the New York Public Library’s ‘Book for the Teen Age’ list in 2006, showcasing her versatility and appeal across different audiences.

Readers find Grodstein’s novels particularly compelling due to her gift for creating engaging narratives. Her stories are rich with detail and emotion, making it easy for readers to connect with the characters and become immersed in their lives. Whether she is exploring complex family dynamics or crafting memorable protagonists, Grodstein’s writing consistently keeps readers entertained and wanting more.

She entertains readers worldwide with her captivating storytelling and relatable characters. Her novels resonate with audiences because they are grounded in authentic, heartfelt narratives that reflect her unique perspective. Whether her stories unfold around intricate family dynamics or vividly painted protagonists, Grodstein’s ability to keep her writing true to herself shines through.

Grodstein’s books have gained international appeal due to the universal themes she explores and the genuine emotion she brings to each story. These stories are not only engaging but also resonate deeply because they reflect common human experiences and emotions, making them meaningful and enjoyable to a wide audience.

By staying true to her voice and vision, Grodstein ensures her stories are both personal and relatable. Her talent for weaving compelling narratives, coupled with her knack for crafting believable and complex characters, draws readers in and keeps them hooked. This authenticity in her writing establishes a strong connection with readers, allowing them to feel truly engaged and entertained by her work.

Early and Personal Life

Lauren Grodstein was raised in North Jersey in a Jewish family, crafting stories from a young age. Her active imagination and love for storytelling sparked her interest in writing. With Holocaust survivors in her family, she developed a unique perspective on complex narratives.

Now living in Moorestown, New Jersey, with her husband Ben, a musician, and their children, Penny and Nathaniel, Grodstein draws inspiration from her surroundings. Her novels, like ‘A Friend of the Family,’ explore suburban life with both depth and authenticity. Besides writing, she teaches creative writing at Rutgers University-Camden, guiding a diverse array of students.

Balancing writing and teaching, Grodstein continues to refine her craft. Her award-winning novels resonate with readers for their genuine portrayal of suburban life. Living with her family and their Bernese Mountain Dog, she remains dedicated to storytelling, enriching her life and the lives of her readers.

Writing Career

Lauren Grodstein’s writing career took off with a nomination for the Philolexian Prize in 1997. She published ‘The Best of Animals’ in 2002 and her first novel, ‘Reproduction is the Flaw of Love,’ in 2004.

‘A Friend of the Family’ earned significant acclaim, becoming a New York Times Bestseller, a Washington Post Book of the Year, and a New York Times Editor’s Pick. She followed with ‘The Explanation for Everything’ (2013), ‘Our Short History’ (2017), and ‘We Must Not Think of Ourselves’ (2023).

Her work ‘Girls Dinner Club’ was also nominated as a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age. Grodstein continues to write, adding to her impressive literary portfolio.

We Must Not Think of Ourselves

‘We Must Not Think of Ourselves’ is a stand-alone historical book by Lauren Grodstein, published on November 28, 2023. The book is available from Algonquin Books, further adding to Grodstein’s impressive body of literary work.

On a November day in 1940, Adam Paskow is imprisoned in the Warsaw Ghetto, where the city’s Jews are confined by Nazi guards. He is then asked to join a secret group of archivists preserving the truth about their situation. Adam starts recording testimonies from his friends, students, and neighbors, capturing their lives and survival strategies.

Amid this, he and his flatmate, Sala Wiskoff, fall in love, but Adam faces a difficult choice when he discovers a possible escape.

The story is a rich one filled with emotional depth and historical detail, making it hard to put down. Readers will be moved by Adam’s journey and the love story that unfolds. This book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction.

A Friend of the Family

‘A Friend of the Family’ is a contemporary mystery novel by Lauren Grodstein, published on November 10, 2009. The book was released by Algonquin Books, and once again enhanced Grodstein’s literary reputation with its engaging storytelling.

Pete Dizinoff has diligently worked to achieve what many would consider a successful life, with a prosperous medical practice and a loving family in suburban New Jersey. His pride and joy is his son, Alec, for whom Pete has gone to great lengths to provide every opportunity.

However, when Laura, the daughter of Pete’s best friend, pursues Alec, Pete’s carefully laid plans begin to unravel. Convinced he is protecting his son, Pete attempts to end the relationship, not anticipating the devastating consequences that follow.

Our Short History

‘Our Short History’ is a stand-alone contemporary novel by Lauren Grodstein, published on March 21, 2017. The book was released by Algonquin Books, again solidifying Grodstein’s position as a notable contemporary author.

Karen Neulander, a successful political consultant in New York, has always protected her six-year-old son, Jacob. When Jacob’s father, Dave, rejected fatherhood, Karen decided to raise Jacob alone. Now, as Karen faces terminal illness, Jacob wishes to meet his dad.

Surprised by Dave’s enthusiasm for their son, Karen struggles with the growing bond between Jake and Dave, and her diminishing influence in her son’s life.