If you’ve ever wondered what inspires a beloved author or what goes on behind the scenes of a new release you’re in the right place.
In this edition of 12 Things, we sit down with Emma Straub to talk about her latest novel, American Fantasy, her writing process, and the little things that shape her storytelling.
Whether you're already a fan or just discovering her work, this fun interview offers a glimpse into the mind of one of our favorite authors.
American Fantasy by Emma Straub
Why we love it:
American Fantasy blends emotional depth with sharp wit, delivering a story that feels both intimate and expansive. Straub’s signature voice shines through in a novel that explores identity, relationships, and the quiet moments that define us.
Perfect for:
- Modern fiction readers
- Book club picks
- Fans of character-driven storytelling
INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
"American Fantasy has everything we need right now: '90s nostalgia, humor, and it is a great escape." --Jenna Bush Hager on NBC Today Show
"I can hardly remember the last time I read anything that brought me such pure joy." --Ann Patchett
"American Fantasy is such a fun, delicious, big-hearted book." --Taylor Jenkins Reid
"Comedy and redemption on the high seas...breezy, tenderhearted."--New York Times
From New York Times bestselling author of This Time Tomorrow, an irresistible story about what happens when your teenage fantasy comes true after you're already an adult.
When the American Fantasy cruise ship sets sail for a four-day themed voyage, aboard are all five members of a famous, nineties-era boy band and three thousand screaming women who have worshipped them since childhood.
Feeling slightly out of place amid this crowd is Annie, here on a lark to appease her sister. Yet when the lights come up and the idols of her youth begin to sing, something is unlocked. Call it memory. Call it nostalgia. Call it the chemical reaction of hormones, hope, and sexual reawakening. Between the slushy alcoholic drinks, the familiar music, and the throngs of middle-aged women acting like lovesick teenagers, Annie finally reconnects to a long-submerged part of herself. By the time she meets one of the band members--not just a celebrity but someone in need of a friend--she has accessed a new sense of possibility.
In a smart and incisive book packed with laugh-out-loud reflections on fame, aging, and marriage, Emma Straub delivers a richly textured story that shows us real passion is never truly lost, that what we love makes us who we are, and that deep meaning can sometimes be found in a sea of screaming fans.
Watch the Full Interview with Emma Straub
Want the full experience? Watch all 12 questions and answers below:
About the Author: Emma Straub
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FAQ
Who is Emma Straub?
Emma Straub is a bestselling contemporary fiction author known for her character-driven novels and engaging storytelling.
What is American Fantasy about?
American Fantasy explores themes of identity, relationships, and personal transformation through a richly developed narrative.
Where can I watch the Emma Straub interview?
You can watch the full “12 Things with Emma Straub” interview directly on Bookfinity or on YouTube here.
What are other books written by Emma Straub?
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