A wonderful story about coming of age in the sixties. Twenty-year-old Marilyn has trouble sticking to the strict rules of her orthodox Jewish family in 1960s New York City. As punishment for her shenanigans, she’s sent to a great Aunt in Philadelphia who is a matchmaker by profession, for the summer. Aunt Ada is nothing like what Marilyn assumes she will be, and she learns more about herself, love, and family than she ever bargained for. Sara Goodman Confino’s characters are abrasive, selfish, and completely lovable. Great for the beach, or anyone who struggles with accepting rules that just don’t seem to apply. Published September 1, 2023. Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for sharing this review copy with me.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. I rated this three stars but it is more like 3.5. I enjoyed the story, and really liked the interaction between the two main characters. At times the story felts long and I thought it really picked up from the middle to the end. This is a new author to me and I would read another one by her.

'Yes, I wanted love and passion and excitement. But the idea of being my own person - of doing what I wanted and bossing everyone else around - was intoxicating'.

It's 1960 and Marilyn Kleinman has just been caught kissing the rabbi's son in the most public and dramatic way. For Marilyn, it's a case of two strikes and she's out - off to her great aunt Ada's house for the summer. Ada is known just as much for being strict, as for her matchmaking business. Unfazed, Marilyn knows rules are simply made to be bent or broken, this is her summer break after all. But when Marilyn breaks one too many rules and is slapped in the face with the consequences, she begins to realise that what she might want, may not in fact be what she needs. Maybe it's time to actually start listening to her aunt, 'We all have to make our own mistakes and learn some things the hard way'.

'Don't Forget to Write' is about finding yourself and believing in your dreams. There is not just one path to happiness, despite what others may believe. Underlying this is also the idea of acceptance and tolerance of others, 'The world loves to destroy what it doesn't understand'.

This book was such a fun, cute read, full of sass and wit. At one point, I was worried it was heading for a lull but it quickly revved up again. Sara Confino does a fantastic job of evoking both laughter and tears. I admit that as I neared the end, I flicked to the end (because I'm such an impatient reader) and, despite knowing what was to come, I was still moved to tears...I believe that's really the best endorsement to give you to try it yourself.

On the whim of a recommendation and because I wanted to read something by this particular author, I picked this book up and I am so very glad that I did. I wasn’t sure what to expect, especially given the historical context and a bit of a religious aspect in the beginning, but that was merely to set the story up. Marilyn is caught in a compromising position with a young man in her synagogue and the resulting aftermath of humiliation to her parents leads to Marilyn being sent away to Philadelphia to stay with her great aunt Ada Heller for the summer.

Marilyn quickly discovers that Ada is unlike anyone she’s ever met. In the 1960’s, there were societal expectations and Marilyn knows that she is not a conformist. She doesn’t want to simply get married, have children and be a homemaker. Ada is a well renowned matchmaker who lives a very full and busy life. She’s sharp, witty and wise. She doesn’t spare Marilyn an inch yet she teaches Marilyn a lot about living life to the fullest and without confines. Marilyn begins an exploration of herself and also discovering more about the past because how did Ada become so smart? Nothing gets past her and yet Ada gives Marilyn the best gift of all, the opportunity to be herself and to pursue her passion.

The dialogue between Marilyn and Ada is fantastic because Marilyn can be quite sassy, yet Ada is always ready with a comeback. Marilyn also has to learn some hard lessons firsthand and realize that experience counts for everything. Marilyn is truly a hoot in the best way with her daring attitude and pushing boundaries, yet I admired her for not caving to societal pressure and not selling herself short. This is a very entertaining read that kept me eager to turn the pages and to see what Marilyn or Ada had up their sleeve next because a duo as crafty as these two is unstoppable.

Don’t Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino might be my new favorite book. It has elements of everything I love: historical fiction, Jewish representation, strong women who define what society tells them, and of course a healthy dose of romance. Marilyn is a fantastic main character, and the book is in first person of her perspective. She’s strong and willful and determined, so we assume she’s a reliable narrator, and to a high degree, she is. And, she’s also not privy to everyone’s thoughts and emotions, which leaves so much room for uncertainty that becomes clearer as Marilyn spends her summer with her great aunt Ada.

Sara Goodman Confino's "Don't Forget to Write" is a literary treasure that beckons readers into a world of captivating storytelling, endearing characters, and the enduring magic of the written word. This novel is a poignant and beautifully crafted work that will not only draw you in and leave mark on your heart.

At the heart of the narrative is the remarkable character of Clara, whose journey of self-discovery and resilience serves as the emotional anchor of the story. Clara's passion for writing and her unwavering determination to capture the world around her through words are both relatable and inspiring. As readers accompany Clara on her literary odyssey, they are sure to find a kindred spirit in this remarkable protagonist.

The novel excels in its portrayal of the power of language and the written word. "Don't Forget to Write" is a love letter to literature itself, celebrating the ways in which words can transcend time and space, connect individuals across generations, and serve as a source of solace and strength in times of adversity. Confino's reverence for language is palpable and contagious.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is its exploration of family and the ties that bind us. Clara's quest to uncover her family's past is a journey of profound emotional depth. The novel beautifully reveals the idea that our family stories are an integral part of our own narratives, and the pursuit of those stories can lead to self-discovery and healing.

Confino's writing is luminous and evocative. Her prose possesses a lyrical quality that brings the narrative to life, infusing each page with a sense of wonder and beauty. The novel's dual timeline structure, alternating between Clara's contemporary story and her grandmother's wartime experiences, adds depth and complexity.

In "Don't Forget to Write," Sara Goodman Confino reminds us of the importance of preserving our family histories and the stories that shape our identities. It invites us to embrace our own narratives and to cherish the written word as a bridge to the past and a beacon of hope for the future.

This book is a literary gem that deserves to be celebrated for its ability to transport readers to different eras, to touch their hearts, and to leave them with a renewed appreciation for the written word. "Don't Forget to Write" is a gift to literature and to those who cherish the magic of storytelling.

"Don't Forget to Write" is a beacon of the enduring power of literature and the written word to illuminate our lives, connect us with our past, and inspire us to create our own stories. It is a book that will not only capture your imagination but also remind you of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.

"Don't Forget to Write" is a reminder that the stories we tell, both in fiction and in our own lives, have the power to shape our destinies and leave a mark on the world.

Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for this book! What a gem of a story set in 1960. When Marilyn is caught necking with the rabbi’s son during a sermon; her strict father sends her off to her great aunt Ada for the summer in Philadelphia. Marilyn is non to happy but it beats marrying the rabbi’s son! Marilyn expects her old match making aunt to be a mean spinster and her summer ruined and meets a total opposite. Aunt Ada is no stinking violet and the entire city seems to know and revere this sassy senior with a silver tongue and a flare for life. There are rules and Marilyn must obey all or be sent back on the next train to New York. This story continues to the Jersey shore where Marilyn realizes there is a place for her as an independent woman not needing to marry, have kids and burn the brisket in the oven. A wonderful coming of age story that fills you with hope, a generous amount of laughs and a wish we all had an Aunt Ada in our lives. Highly recommend this heartfelt story you won’t soon forget!

This book was so funny and lighthearted. The author really has a way to bring you back in time. A lot a people were criticizing the time period of 1960s being "historical" but as a 90s baby, it was nice to have a perspective on that era. The book made me laugh, cry and feel all the things! Def recommend!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy of “Dont Forget to Write” by Sara Goodman Confino. all opinions are my own.

This was the best summer/beach heart warming read of 2023. Loved it!!

This is going down as one of my top favorite reads of 2023. I don’t know what sorcery Sara Goodman Confino puts in her books but I am here for every single bit of it. The twists and turns of this book were beautiful and funny. Perfection.

It's not just the fact that Marilyn Kleinman got caught making out with the rabbi's son in the synagogue that makes her different from other girls in her community. Though that is quite scandalous enough to keep the gossips busy for a while!

A more subtle but nevertheless telling difference is that it is 1960, and Marilyn wants to be a writer, which is really not the average aspiration for a Jewish girl who grew up on the Jersey Shore...

To be fair though, it is the incident at the synagogue that leads Marilyn's long-suffering and somewhat autocratic parents to take drastic action, packing her off for the summer to her strict aunt Ada who is a well-known matchmaker, in the hope that she will find someone suitable for Marilyn to settle down .

With her college dreams at stake Marilyn is caught between feeling mutinous about this coercion and realising that her options are limited. Or are they? Because Aunt Ada turns out to be very different from what Marilyn expected...

This is an uplifting story about a young woman trying to find her way in a world that is not really allowing for - let alone enabling - her aspirations. Aunt Ada and her housekeeper Frannie are wonderful characters, and for me, it is the unexpectedness and eccentricity of Ada's character that made the book so readable.

This is Sara's best one yet!

Synopsis: When Marilyn scandalously makes out with the rabbi's son during services, and the entire congregation catches them, she is sent to live her great aunt Ada. Ada is nothing short of strict and works as a professional matchmaker. What starts off as a seemingly miserable summer, full of rules and barking orders from Ada, turns into a transformative experience for Marilyn.

What I Loved:
-The 1960s Jersey Shore setting
-The realistic romantic dynamics
-The matchmaking world
-Everything about Aunt Ada's character
-The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel vibes
-Strong female characters

Can you call a novel taking place in 1960 "historical"? If so, this could be the Marjorie Morningstar of the 2020's. It begins with a Jewish girl from Manhattan, who, while making out with the Rabbi's son in the Rabbi's study during Sabbath services, falls through a stained-glass window that opens into the sanctuary. This dumps both Marily and Daniel at the feet of his father, scandalizing the entire congregation .Oy Vay!

That evening, Daniel's parents bring him to Marilyn's house to propose marriage, as if that were the only option to prevent the scandal from tainting both families. Have we come so far in 60 years or is this a rather dated societal reaction to some innocent rule-breaking?

It doesn't matter, because the story spins off from there when Marilyn's folks send her off to her great-aunt Ada's in Philadelphia to spend the summer. Ada, a rich and successful matchmaker (this was well before Hinge, Grindr and JDate, let us not forget.) Aunt Ada is single and a free spirit and while she is a curmudgeon, Marilyn ends up adoring her and wanting to escape from the expectations of her parents and BE A WRITER!, A
"SHANDAh" indeed.

This tale is a romp, detailing Marilyn's adventures in Avalon, Ada's summer home on the Jersey Shore, and Marilyn's early rebellion and later conversion to loving Ada. It's a fun-filled novel, filled with surprises and cute descriptions, that will keep you entertained. But if you think it's historically accurate, you are bound to be disappointed. Frank Sinatra, really? Calling him by the nickname "Skinny"? I don't think so. But enjoyable anyway? Yes!

Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for this ARC copy.

Marilyn Kleinman is 20 years old and at home for her college break. While attending synagog with her parents she is caught making out with the Rabbi’s son - in the Rabbi’s office, during services. Her mother is mortified, her father is furious. The Rabbi appears at the Kleinman house with his son, and Daniel proposes to Marilyn. Now she is mortified and responds with a flat “NO!”. Marilyn may want to marry eventually but her true dream is to become a writer. Her father makes several threats, and when she refuses to acquiesce, Marilyn is sent to spend the summer in Philadelphia with her great aunt Ada.

Having never met Ada, Marilyn is expecting an old-fashioned, humorless, spinster. Instead, she finds a successful businesswoman with platinum blonde hair, impeccable makeup, designer clothing, a Cadillac convertible, and a sassiness to match Marilyn’s own. She purchases a typewriter and paper for Marilyn and tells her that it is time that she “write her own story”.

Ada takes Marilyn to her home on the Jersey Shore for the summer where there is plenty of time for Marilyn to enjoy herself despite Ada’s work schedule and strict rules. Marilyn tries sneaking out yet, somehow, Ada knows exactly what she’s been up to. When Marilyn’s father shows up demanding that she return home and marry, and threatening to disowner her if she doesn’t obey, Marilyn must decide what to do. She doesn’t want to be disowned by the family she loves but, if there’s one thing Ada has taught her this summer, it’s that she doesn’t have to settle.

A clever story of love, marriage and career and the options that were just opening up for women in the 1960s.
I loved this novel, it was humorous, fun and warm-hearted. In short, it was “unputdownable”. Highly recommended. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Special thanks to Lake House Union Publishing, NetGalley and Sara Goodman Confino for an advanced copy of this wonderful book, in exchange for a fair and unbiased review. Publication date: September 5, 2023

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This story is full of laughs and tears making you not want the story to end.

When Marilyn is caught kissing the Rabbi's son in the synagogue she is told they must marry but Marylin refuses. Her father believes that sending her to live with her strict great-aunt Ada will get her behavior under control; but that backfires as the two connect on a deeper level. The connection between this two characters is truly amazing and so incredibly written.

Thank you Netgalley, the publisher and author for my ARC!

Excellent writing. Characters are divine. Did not want this story to end. Will be keeping my eyes open for more books from Sara Goodman Confino

I was disappointed with this book; after reading so many rave reviews, I was expecting phenomenal, and it was just OK to good. I found it extremely predictable and did not find the writing to be strong at all. Yes, the characters and their relationships were cute, but even this could have been better, there were no laugh out loud moments for me. The book reminded me slightly of Florence Adler Swims Forever, and I would highly recommend that one over this one. Eek…sorry to say!

Thank you very much to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I just reviewed Don't Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino. #DontForgettoWrite #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL] Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. I really loved this book. I didn't want to put it down. I loved the setting, Philly, NY, Jersey Beach in the 1960's. The characters were Jewish and some characters practiced their faith more than others. The characters were like family. There was Ada the distant aunt who had many rules. The young niece who was sent to this aunt during the summer as punishment. How was this 20 year girl going to manage spending her summer with this cranky aunt? I was hooked right away. After I finished the book I immediately read several chapters again. Enjoy

I really loved this novel! It was like a Jewish Mary Jane mixed with the Guncle! A wonderful coming of age story of a 20 year old woman, Marilyn, growing up in the 60s. After a humorous, but embarrassing mistake with the rabbi’s son, Marilyn is sent away to spend the summer with her aunt Ada. Ada is just great. Smart as a whip and fiercely independent, Ada teaches Marilyn what it takes to be an independent woman during this time. It was just a heartwarming story that I couldn’t put down. I can’t wait to read more of her books!

Don’t Forget to Write by author Sara Goodman Confino is absolutely the BEST book I’ve read this year! Before starting it I had read other readers reviews and had noticed that everyone was giving it a 5 star rating. I thought to myself that that never happens so it must be good and I need to read it. Wow, I’m so glad I did! Throughout the majority of the book I felt like I was smiling as I read because it was a fun and sometimes comical read. The camaraderie between the two main characters was so well displayed and it made the storyline so fun and entertaining. I loved the character of Ava. She lived her life doing exactly how and what she wanted, even when it was against the norm for the 1960’s. She was an inspiration. I also learned a lot from my reading, what it was like back then and also about their religion. Although most of the story had me feeling happy, sometimes even laughing out loud, there were parts that also had me crying but that was towards the end. But it was the ending that was the best for me, boy I did not see that coming! This is a book I can’t recommend enough, hurry and grab yourself a copy because you’ll be really glad you did. I’d like to thank NetGalley for the arc that I found on the Read Now section. I loved this story and am rating it at 5 stars but believe me when I say, it deserves so much more! Now I’m off to find and read any and all books by this new to me author.