Most people would say they enjoy reading a good book now and then. A good amount of books are being turned into films or have already been. For example, John Green’s novel, “Paper Towns,” has just been released as a feature-length film. And you are probably aware of the success of E.L. James, whose book, “50 Shades of Grey,” became a massive hit at the box office. Lately, females have been dominating the literary world. Unfortunately, a lot of people are familiar with the movies adapted from these ladies’ books without actually knowing the people behind them. Here are the top five female authors whose names we think you should know.
Number Five: Emma Straub. Emma Straub is a fiction novelist who hails from New York City. She has written several New York Times Best Sellers. Her most recent work is also one of her most popular novels, “The Vacationers.” This book is about a dysfunctional family who rents a vacation home in Spain. It is a smart, humorous read that explores life and its various stages of relationships along the way.
Number Four: Mara Leveritt. Mara Leveritt is an Arkansas-based reporter best known as the author of “Devil’s Knot: The True Story of the West Memphis Three.” This crime novel is nonfiction and based on the infamous West Memphis Three: Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin and Jesse Misskelly. The West Memphis Three were convicted of murder in Arkansas and subsequently set free after eighteen years. The film adaptation was released in 2013 and stars Reese Witherspoon and Colin Firth.
Number Three: Alice Clayton. Alice Clayton is an author who is known for the “Cocktail” series. Her books are also categorized under “Chick Lit.” The “Cocktail” series consists of five books about a young group of girlfriends going through life and trying to find Mr. Right along the way. Clayton’s writing is quirky and honest, while also managing to come off as genuine. These aren’t your typical cheesy romance novels. This series is smart, witty and is the perfect fun read for a twenty-something woman.
Number Two: Gillian Flynn. Gillian Flynn is known for writing dark thriller novels. If you enjoy reading crime and mystery novels, you will love Gillian Flynn. She is known for her best-selling book, “Gone Girl,” which recently graced the silver screen and even garnered a few Oscar nominations. The movie is amazing, but it pales in comparison to the book, which is a real pager turner. She has also written “Sharp Objects” and “Dark Places,” both of which are becoming adapted to movies as well.
Number One: Emily Giffin. Emily Giffin is a talented novelist with several books categorized as “Chick Lit.” Her best-known novel is “Something Borrowed,” which was adapted into a movie released in 2011 under the same name. I saw the movie before I read the book, and let me tell you, the saying, “The book is better than the movie,” holds true. That being said, it is an enjoyable movie to watch and an even better book to read. I would recommend all of her books.