‘Meet Me in St. Louis’ by Sally Benson

In her acclaimed work, Meet Me in St. Louis, Sally Benson presents a semi-autobiographical narrative drawn from her experiences growing up in a large family in St. Louis. This collection, which encompasses short stories published in The New Yorker, was later adapted into a well-known MGM musical.

Originally presented as a series titled “5135 Kensington” between 1941 and 1942, the book was retitled during its publication to align with the film’s title. Benson enriched the text with additional vignettes, structuring it around the Smith family’s life throughout a year.

The storytelling vividly captures the dynamics among the Smith children—ranging from the college-bound Lon to the ambitious Rose, with Esther navigating her youthful crushes. Benson skillfully weaves humor and nostalgia into her writing, presenting relatable childhood dilemmas and familial bonds. The author employs insightful sketches to introduce readers to family interactions, such as through the lens of Rose’s new boyfriend in the opening chapter, “June, 1903.”

Benson’s narrative gracefully balances playful moments with underlying themes, addressing financial problems and minor heartaches omitted from the film adaptation. This book stands out as a humorous yet poignant tribute to a bygone era, offering readers a delightful experience that can resonate across generations.

Recommended for readers who enjoy: The musical Meet Me in St. Louis, Life Among the Savages by Shirley Jackson, and the Betsy-Tacy series. The book may be sourced from various used book websites, although it is currently out of print.

‘The Tokyo Zodiac Murders’ by Soji Shimada

Soji Shimada’s debut mystery novel, The Tokyo Zodiac Murders, has garnered attention for its intricate plot and engaging storytelling. First published in Japanese in 1981 and later translated into English in 2004, the novel is a remarkable example of the “honkaku” genre, known for its clever puzzles and fair-play detective elements.

The narrative begins in 1936 with a gruesome scene in which an artist is murdered in his locked studio. The story unfolds through the discovery of his journals, which elaborate on a chilling plan involving the creation of an “ideal woman” from the remains of family members, leading to several shocking deaths.

Fast forward 40 years, and Kazumi Ishioka, a dedicated illustrator and mystery enthusiast, is thrust into the investigation when he receives a vital clue related to the unsolved murders. This quest takes him across Japan and entangles him in a web of astrological themes and complex storytelling.

Critics have highlighted the originality of the novel’s resolution, with acclaimed author Anthony Horowitz praising it as one of the most inventive endings he has encountered. The Tokyo Zodiac Murders offers an intricate reading experience that not only challenges the reader’s deductive skills but also captures attention through its engaging subplots.

Recommended for readers who enjoy: Puzzle mysteries, the works of Sherlock Holmes, and astrological narratives. The book is available from Pushkin Press.

Literary Recommendations and Activities

If you are looking to further explore literature, consider visiting the Morgan Library’s exhibition titled “Belle da Costa Greene: A Librarian’s Legacy.” This exhibition showcases the life of Greene, who navigated her professional journey while “passing” as white and overseeing an invaluable literary collection.

Additionally, for those interested in literary analysis, Henry James’s recently published criticism, The Lessons of Balzac, offers engaging insights into the French realists, challenging the works of notable authors such as George Eliot and Thomas Hardy.

Moreover, maintaining a connection with poetry can enrich one’s literary experience. Consider revisiting the works of T.S. Eliot, particularly resonant during the changing seasons.