Don't Forget to Write: A Novel

A lovely story.

Set in 1960, Don’t Forget to Write follows Marilyn Kleinman after a scandalous encounter with the rabbi’s son threatens her carefully mapped-out future. Sent away for the summer to live with her formidable great-aunt Ada—a legendary Philadelphia matchmaker—Marilyn expects strict supervision and constant judgment. Instead, she finds herself drawn into Ada’s glamorous, sharp-witted world, one that quietly challenges everything Marilyn has been taught to accept. Over the course of a transformative summer filled with trips to the Jersey Shore and behind-the-scenes glimpses into matchmaking, Marilyn begins to come into her own. She learns that independence often grows from missteps, and that lived experience can teach far more than the well-meaning expectations of others. As family pressures mount and the summer comes to an end, Marilyn must decide whether to return to the safety of the life laid out for her or risk choosing a future on her own terms. At its heart, this is a warm and thoughtful coming-of-age story about the unexpected bonds we form and the ways we often misunderstand the people closest to us. As Marilyn uncovers long-held family secrets—particularly about her mother—the novel gently explores themes of identity, autonomy, and self-discovery, while also touching on issues of racism and homophobia. While the plot twists are small and largely predictable, they feel earned and satisfying, reinforcing the novel’s charm. Don’t Forget to Write is a heartfelt, engaging read that celebrates growth, courage, and the quiet power of choosing oneself.

Great book! Fun read. Takes place in late 50s early 60s? in Phila and the Jesery Shore. A young lady gets into trouble and mischief, so her father sends to spend the summer with her Great aunt at the Jersey shore.

Loved every minute of it

What a wonderful story. I just couldn’t put it down. The story of Ada and Marilyn will resonate with me for a long time.

A fun, light read that made me laugh out loud many times throughout the book. Loved the Jersey Shore and Philadelphia references.