I gave City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert 5/5 stars on Goodreads. I took a break from my typical mystery to experience 1940s New York City through the eyes of young of Vivian Morris. The story is told from her point of view, as she recounts her life story. After flunking out of Vassar, her parents ship her off to go live with her eccentric Aunt Peg, a theater owner, and feminist before her time. The living quarters are located above the theater, its apartments often filled with down on their luck actors and showgirls. Vivian is suddenly thrust into a sparkling world of dazzling, artistic people and life-changing experiences. We tag along with her as she navigates successes and scandals, loves and losses. From the carefree pre-war days, through WWII we follow Vivian’s coming of age story. Some themes explored are loss of virginity, sexual hunger, and prowess, and same-sex relationships. I particularly liked the way Elizabeth Gilbert threaded in so much historical fiction, transporting the reader to 1940s New York and the theatre district. Overall, I enjoyed City of Girls. It would be perfect to read at the beach, or by the pool this summer!
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