Allyson Reedy: Fiction Writer and Food Journalist
Allyson Reedy is a fiction writer, food journalist, and restaurant critic. Her work has appeared in notable publications such as The Denver Post, Bon Appétit, and 5280. She is also the author of several cookbooks, including 50 Things to Bake Before You Die and The Phone Eats First. Allyson lives in Broomfield with her husband, children, and her pug.
About Her Book
This book is a retelling of The Great Gatsby from the perspective of Myrtle Wilson, who in the original novel is Tom Buchanan’s mistress. Allyson shares her deep admiration for The Great Gatsby, mentioning she has read it over ten times. She even read it as the first book to both of her babies when they arrived home from the hospital, aiming for it to be their introduction to English. She owns over 50 copies, and her dog was named Gatsby, showing her strong personal connection to the story.
Interview Excerpt
SunLit: Tell us this book’s backstory – what’s it about and what inspired you to write it?
Allyson Reedy: This is a “The Great Gatsby” retelling from Myrtle Wilson’s point of view. Like many people, I’m a Gatsby fan, and I’ve read the book at least 10 times. It’s the first book I read to both of my babies when I brought them home from the hospital, wanting that to be their introduction to the English language. I own 50+ copies of the book, my dog’s name was Gatsby, and yes, I’m clearly a psycho.
Selected Excerpt Context
Allyson selected a section from the first chapter where Myrtle and George are introduced, followed by the pivotal subway encounter between Myrtle and Tom Buchanan. This excerpt sets the tone for the story and highlights the pivotal relationships.
SunLit: Place the excerpt you selected in context. How does it fit into the book as a whole and why did you select it?
Allyson Reedy: I chose a chunk of the first chapter, when we meet Myrtle and George, followed by that fateful meeting of Myrtle and Tom on the subway.
Additional Information
- The Colorado Sun and Colorado Humanities & Center For The Book regularly feature excerpts and interviews with Colorado authors as part of their SunLit series.
- SunLit archives can be explored at coloradosun.com/sunlit.
Allyson Reedy’s unique perspective reinvigorates a classic story, merging a beloved literary world with fresh, intimate insights grounded in her own lifelong connection to the original book.