Dolly Alderton Book Recommendations

Aging Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo finally tells her life story to an unknown journalist, revealing the truth behind her seven marriages and the great forbidden love of her life. Through the glamour of Old Hollywood, the novel explores fame, ambition, sexuality, race, and the price of living authentically in an unforgiving world.

Connell and Marianne grow up in the same small Irish town, but their lives intertwine in unexpected ways as they navigate love, identity, and emotional vulnerability through high school and university. Normal People is a quiet, intensely intimate portrait of modern relationships, exploring how people shape—and fail—each other. Rooney’s minimalist style and emotional insight made this a literary sensation.

In Gail Honeyman's debut novel, 'Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine,' readers are immersed in the poignant and intriguing life of Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward and routine-driven woman with a traumatic past. The story delicately explores themes of loneliness, resilience, and the power of human connection as Eleanor's carefully constructed world begins to unravel when she forms an unlikely friendship with a coworker. As the layers of Eleanor's past are peeled away, the novel offers a heartfelt exploration of mental health, healing, and the importance of reaching out for help. With humor, sensitivity, and unforgettable characters, this book is a touching and hopeful journey of self-discovery.

In 'Conversations with Friends' by Sally Rooney, readers are immersed in the complex relationships and dynamics of four young individuals in contemporary Dublin. The story follows Frances and Bobbi, former lovers and friends turned performance poetry duo, as they navigate a complicated entanglement with an older married couple. Rooney skillfully dissects themes of youth, love, jealousy, and the intricacies of human connection with sharp, honest prose. The characters' introspective dialogues and emotional turmoil create a compelling narrative that delves deep into the complexities of modern relationships and identity. 'Conversations with Friends' is a thought-provoking exploration of self-discovery and the nuances of intimacy.

In 'Everything I Know About Love' by Dolly Alderton, readers are taken on a poignant journey exploring love in its various forms - friendships, relationships, self-love, and heartbreaks. Alderton weaves together hilarious anecdotes and raw emotions to create a brutally honest portrayal of navigating love in the modern world. Through her personal experiences, she delves into themes of growing up, finding oneself, and learning valuable life lessons along the way. This memoir-like narrative resonates with readers of all ages, offering a relatable and insightful perspective on the complexities of love and relationships.

In 'Ghosts' by Dolly Alderton, we delve into the complexities of modern relationships through the witty and relatable lens of the protagonist, Nina Dean. As she navigates the highs and lows of dating in the digital age, Alderton skillfully weaves together themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. The narrative is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, offering insights into the challenges of maintaining human connections in a world driven by technology. Through Nina's journey, readers are confronted with the realities of loneliness, vulnerability, and the enduring power of human connection. Alderton's sharp writing style and poignant storytelling make 'Ghosts' a must-read for anyone seeking a contemporary take on love and life.

In 'How to Fail: Everything I’ve Ever Learned From Things Going Wrong,' Elizabeth Day explores the concept of failure as a source of growth and resilience rather than a negative outcome. Through personal anecdotes and interviews with successful individuals, Day delves into how embracing failure can lead to self-discovery and ultimately, success. The book navigates themes of resilience, self-acceptance, and learning from setbacks with honesty and wit. By sharing her own experiences and those of others, Day provides a refreshing perspective on failure and encourages readers to reevaluate their relationship with it.

In 'I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman,' Nora Ephron tackles the intricacies of aging, womanhood, and societal expectations with her signature wit and insight. Through a collection of essays, Ephron delves into the challenges and humor that come with growing older, offering candid reflections on topics such as relationships, beauty standards, and the passage of time. Her writing is candid, humorous, and poignant, resonating with readers who navigate similar experiences. Ephron's keen observations and sharp humor make this book a delightful and thought-provoking read for anyone grappling with the complexities of aging and womanhood.

In Beth O'Leary's heartwarming novel, 'The Flatshare,' Tiffy Moore and Leon Twomey find themselves sharing a flat without ever meeting due to opposite work schedules. As they leave each other notes, a unique and endearing relationship develops. The book beautifully explores themes of friendship, healing, and the power of human connection. O'Leary's witty and engaging writing style keeps readers hooked as Tiffy and Leon navigate their unconventional living situation and personal struggles. 'The Flatshare' is a delightful blend of romance and personal growth that will leave you smiling and rooting for its charming characters.