Here’s What to Read Once You Get Through Weird Girl Lit 101

The "weird girl" literary genre has been gaining popularity, with numerous books featuring a central character who is often self-destructive, quirky, and unpredictable. This phenomenon is evident in TikTok videos, indie bookshops, and various newsletters. Authors like Ottessa Moshfegh, Mona Awad, Sylvia Plath, and the Bronte sisters have all contributed to this genre, but it's not just limited to them. Below are some recommended books that readers can explore after mastering "Weird Girls 101."

1. Post-Traumatic by Chantal V. Johnson: This 2022 debut novel features a self-deprecating protagonist, Vivian, a lawyer at a psychiatric hospital who deals with family drama and work stress while making hilarious jokes about her own situation.

2. Blood and Guts in High School by Kathy Acker: Published in 1984, this surreal novel follows Janey, a young woman who runs away from home, moves to New York, joins a gang, becomes involved in prostitution, and ultimately has a tumultuous affair with French novelist Jean Genet.

3. After Claude by Iris Owens: Set in 1973, this novel centers around Harriet, who refuses to move on from her ex-boyfriend Claude until the very end. Harriet's descent into madness provides a glimpse into the complexities of relationships and self-reflection.

4. Problems by Jade Sharma: This 2016 debut novel tells the story of Maya, a heroin addict and all-around "fuckup" who remains delightful to spend time with. The book captures the essence of weird girl novels, with its flawed but endearing protagonist.

5. The Princess of 72nd Street by Elaine Kraf: This 1979 novel follows Ellen, a woman living on the Upper West Side who alternates between reality and delusion. Despite her chaotic experiences, Ellen finds beauty and agency in her madness.

6. Fish Tales by Nettie Jones: Edited by Toni Morrison, this 1984 novel provides a raunchy, party-filled narrative of Lewis Jones, a married New York City woman who indulges in sex parties, drugs, and various hedonistic pleasures before falling in love and questioning her priorities.

7. Lives of the Saints by Nancy Lemann: This 1985 novel centers on recently reissued reissues of Louise Brown, a college grad struggling with a full-blown nervous breakdown. Louise returns to New Orleans, where she encounters a charming Southern gentleman that sets her life on a different course.

8. My Education by Susan Choi: In this 2017 novel, protagonist Regina Gottlieb's romantic life becomes increasingly complicated as she navigates relationships with her professor and his wife. Regina's escapades and growth throughout the story highlight the challenges and revelations that come with adult life.

9. The Woman Upstairs by Claire Messud: This 2016 novel tells the story of Miranda, a woman whose life becomes intertwined with that of an elderly neighbor, Mr. Wilcox. As their lives become more intertwined, Miranda is forced to confront her own desires and secrets.

10. What Was She Thinking? by Zoe Heller: This 2012 novel follows a woman who becomes obsessed with the lives of those around her, demanding that her own life be scrutinized and acknowledged for its flaws and successes.