AD
  • Editorials
  • 10 Riveting Novels Inspired by The Great Gatsby and F. Scott Fitzgerald's Life

10 Riveting Novels Inspired by The Great Gatsby and F. Scott Fitzgerald's Life

Written by Turner Gray & Likewise Pix | Sep 05, 2024 Delve into the enchanting world of literature inspired by one of America's most iconic novels, The Great Gatsby, and the fascinating life of its author, F. Scott Fitzgerald. Here's a curated list of ten mesmerizing books that reimagine or draw inspiration from the quintessential Jazz Age tale.

The Chosen and the Beautiful

The Chosen and the Beautiful Book Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Nghi Vo’s debut novel, The Chosen and the Beautiful, offers a vibrant queer reinvention of Fitzgerald's classic. Jordan Baker, queer and a Vietnamese adoptee, navigates the exclusive circles of 1920s American society filled with magic, mystery, and dazzling illusions. This retelling turns the original tale into a coming-of-age story with layers of enchantment and societal critique.

Read more on Likewise

Beautiful Little Fools

Beautiful Little Fools Book Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Jillian Cantor's Beautiful Little Fools shifts the focus to the women in The Great Gatsby. Set against the luxurious backdrop of the Jazz Age, the book reveals untold stories through Daisy Buchanan, Jordan Baker, and Catherine McCoy. This atmospheric historical novel delves into secrets, heartbreak, and the women overshadowed by Gatsby’s grand tale.

Read more on Likewise

Self-Made Boys: A Great Gatsby Remix

Self-Made Boys Book Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Anna-Marie McLemore’s Self-Made Boys reweaves the fabric of The Great Gatsby through the eyes of Nicolás Caraveo, a 17-year-old transgender boy. Set in 1922 New York, this magical tale explores themes of identity, love, and the American Dream, providing a fresh and achingly romantic take on the classic story.

Read more on Likewise

The Great Gatsby (Graphic Novel)

The Great Gatsby Graphic Novel Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

This graphic novel adaptation of The Great Gatsby brings Fitzgerald’s timeless story to life with stunning illustrations by Aya Morton and a skillful distillation of the text by Fred Fordham. Perfect for new readers and longtime fans, this edition captures the essence of the classic with a modern visual twist.

Read more on Likewise

Nick

Nick Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Michael Farris Smith's Nick sheds light on Nick Carraway’s life before he became Gatsby’s chronicler. Following his experiences in World War I, Nick's journey is one of redemption and self-discovery, exploring themes of trauma, love, and resilience. This novel provides a deeper understanding of the enigmatic narrator we thought we knew.

Read more on Likewise

Great

Great Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In this contemporary retelling, Sara Benincasa’s Great transports The Great Gatsby to the Hamptons. The story follows Naomi Rye as she becomes entangled in the mysterious and glamorous world of Jacinta, a charismatic socialite. This modern twist on the classic explores themes of wealth, identity, and scandal.

Read more on Likewise

Z

Z Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Z by Therese Anne Fowler delves into the life of Zelda Sayre, the woman who inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald. This rich and poignant novel explores their passionate and tumultuous relationship, chronicling Zelda’s journey from Southern belle to an iconic figure in Fitzgerald’s literary world.

Read more on Likewise

West of Sunset

West of Sunset Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Stewart O’Nan’s West of Sunset captures the last years of F. Scott Fitzgerald in Hollywood. It’s a poignant exploration of his struggles, relationships, and the relentless pursuit of creativity amidst personal and professional turmoil. This novel offers a deep and moving portrait of the iconic author’s final chapter.

Read more on Likewise

Beautiful Fools

Beautiful Fools Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

R. Clifton Spargo’s Beautiful Fools depicts a heartfelt and dramatic episode in the lives of Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. The novel follows their tumultuous trip to Cuba in 1939 as they try to salvage their fractured marriage, offering a tender and tragic glimpse into their enduring yet troubled love story.

Read more on Likewise

Daisy

Daisy Cover
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Daisy reimagines The Great Gatsby from Daisy Buchanan’s perspective. This novel provides a fresh lens on the story, highlighting Daisy’s inner world, desires, and regrets, transforming a character often seen as frivolous into a deeply complex and relatable figure.

Read more on Likewise

The enduring allure of Fitzgerald's masterpiece and his own extraordinary life continues to inspire fresh and imaginative stories. These ten novels offer new interpretations and expand upon the iconic world of The Great Gatsby, enriching our understanding and appreciation of this literary classic.

AD
AD
AD

Take Pix Everywhere

Add your phone number, and you can get instant, personalized recommendations anywhere, anytime via text message

By using our website you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.