Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
New York • 1920s
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo retells Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby from Jordan Baker’s perspective, adding fantasy elements and making Jordan a Vietnamese bisexual woman. She navigates Prohibition-era New York, magical charms, societal racism, and romantic entanglements with Nick, Daisy, and Gatsby, culminating in personal revelations and a journey to Shanghai and Vietnam to explore her heritage. This story discusses racism, sexual aggression, and abortion.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
18,128 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Nghi Vo's The Chosen and the Beautiful reimagines Fitzgerald's classic with a fresh, magical twist. Praised for its lush prose and innovative perspective, especially in its depiction of Jordan Baker, the novel excels in atmospheric world-building. Criticisms include a disjointed narrative and occasional pacing issues. Overall, an imaginative and bold retelling.
Who Should Read The Chosen and the Beautiful?
A reader who would enjoy The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo is likely a fan of richly reimagined classics, magical realism, and diverse narratives. Similar audiences may have appreciated The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, for its Jazz Age glamour, or The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, for its enchanting magic realism.
18,128 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Novel • Fiction
New York • 1920s
2021
Adult
18+ years
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