Jessica Anthony Books In Order

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

Publication Order of Short Stories/Novellas

About Jessica Anthony

Jessica Anthony is a notable American novelist recognized for her engaging literary style. Her short stories feature in renowned collections such as Best New American Voices and Best American Nonrequired Reading. This broad presence in revered publications underscores her talent in storytelling. Anthony’s writing is lauded for its lively narratives and vibrant character development.

Readers appreciate how she crafts captivating protagonists, turning the reading experience into a delightful journey. Anthony’s ability to weave characters that linger in the reader’s mind highlights her mastery of the written word. Her voice resonates through pages, and her novels showcase a blend of wit and insight. Each story offers an entertaining and thought-provoking escape.

Through her characters she has a special way of resonating with readers, making them memorable long after the story ends. These characters are often crafted with depth and realism, allowing readers to connect with their journeys and emotions. Anthony masterfully imbues her protagonists with relatable traits, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the narrative.

Her skill also lies in constructing narratives that captivate with their originality and depth. She skillfully balances plot and character, creating a tapestry of engaging tales that invite readers in. Her contributions to collections like New American Writing further affirm her distinct voice in contemporary literature. Through her work, Anthony continues to enchant and engage, drawing audiences into her imaginative world.

The sense of escapism her stories provide adds to their charm. As readers follow Anthony’s characters through their unique challenges and adventures, they are transported to new worlds and experiences. The engaging plotlines and dynamic character arcs create a sense of escape from everyday life. This captivating blend of relatability and adventure is a testament to Anthony’s prowess as a storyteller, offering audiences both reflection and respite.

Looking ahead, Jessica Anthony’s future in literature seems promising, with anticipation building for her upcoming works. Her ability to craft compelling narratives suggests there are many more engaging stories yet to come. Readers can eagerly await the next chapter in Anthony’s literary journey, as she continues to captivate with her storytelling prowess. Her ongoing contributions are sure to enrich the landscape of contemporary fiction.

Early and Personal Life

Jessica Anthony developed a passion for reading and writing early in life, which set the stage for her career as an acclaimed novelist. Her love for stories and books inspired her path as a writer.

She has enhanced her craft with fellowships from renowned institutions like the Bread Loaf Writers Conference and the MacDowell Colony. These opportunities have been vital in shaping her skills and expanding her literary reach. The support she’s received has enabled her to continue sharing her unique voice with a broad audience.

Anthony’s books have been published in a dozen countries and reviewed by major publications like The Los Angeles Times and The Boston Globe. Her international presence highlights her ability to connect with a diverse readership. Her role as a Bridge Guard artist in Slovakia in 2015 provided additional experiences that influence her ongoing writing journey.

Writing Career

Jessica Anthony is a novelist with several notable works to her name. Her books include ‘The Convalescent’ (2009), ‘Chopsticks’ (2012), and ‘Enter the Aardvark’ (2020). Her next novel, ‘The Most,’ would see publication in 2024.

Her work has reached readers in a dozen countries and received reviews from major publications like The Los Angeles Times and The Wall Street Journal. Anthony has benefited from fellowships with organizations such as the Bread Loaf Writers Conference, along with the MacDowell Colony. In 2015, she also served as a Bridge Guard artist in Slovakia, adding to her rich writing experience.

The Convalescent

Jessica Anthony’s historical novel, ‘The Convalescent,’ was published on June 1, 2009. This book was released by McSweeney’s, marking the beginning of Anthony’s journey into the literary world with a distinctive and engaging voice.

The narrative itself revolves around a small, bearded man who sells meat from a bus in suburban Virginia. It intricately weaves in elements of Hungarian history spanning ten thousand years. The central character is Rovar Ákos Pfliegmand, presented as an unlikely bandit, unloved lover, and a historian of minor details. The story combines personal and historical themes uniquely.

It’s story offers a unique blend of personal and historical storytelling. New readers will appreciate its distinctive voice and engaging narrative. Rovar Ákos Pfliegmand’s journey enchants with unexpected twists and rich history. This novel creatively explores ten thousand years of Hungarian history.

Chopsticks

The Young Adult graphic novel romance ‘Chopsticks,’ by Jessica Anthony in collaboration with designer Rodrigo Corral, was released on February 2, 2012. It was published by Razorbill, bringing together Anthony’s storytelling and Corral’s design expertise. This creative collaboration resulted in a visually engaging and memorable reading experience.

After losing her mother, Glory delves deeply into her music, becoming a piano prodigy under her father’s strict guidance. As a teenager, she vanishes, leading readers through flashbacks of her life before her disappearance. Glory, brilliant yet isolated, becomes enchanted by Frank, a creative neighbor, and spirals into chaos.

Confronted with her fixation on playing only ‘Chopsticks,’ the story unfolds through images and words, leaving it to the reader to discern reality from imagination.

Readers will be captivated by Glory’s journey conveyed through a mix of images and words. Jessica Anthony and Rodrigo Corral create a unique, immersive experience. It’s a memorable read that invites reflection and engagement.

Enter the Aardvark

The contemporary historical novel ‘Enter the Aardvark,’ authored by Jessica Anthony, was published on March 24, 2020. Little, Brown and Company served as the publisher. This release adds to Anthony’s diverse literary portfolio.

On a hot August morning, congressman Alexander Paine Wilson receives a mysterious FedEx package containing a large taxidermied aardvark. As he plans his first reelection campaign, he must hide the aardvark to protect his career. The story alternates between modern Washington, DC, and Victorian England. The connection between these times reveals how a hidden secret has influenced our current world.

The Most

Jessica Anthony’s historical novel ‘The Convalescent’ was published on July 30, 2024. Little, Brown and Company is the publisher behind this release.

On November 3, 1957, as Sputnik 2 takes Laika the dog into space, a couple starts their day. Virgil Beckett, an insurance salesman, dutifully goes about his job. Meanwhile, Kathleen Beckett reminisces her days as a tennis champion and chooses not to attend church with her family. Instead, she dons an old red bathing suit and enters the deserted pool of their apartment complex, refusing to leave.