American Notebooks

Set in the spring of 1963, the narrative follows young Quebec author Marie-Claire Blais as she embarks on her writing journey in Cambridge, Massachusetts, under the guidance of mentor Edmund Wilson. The book serves as a rich autobiographical exploration, featuring vivid literary portraits of influential figures from that era, including writers, artists, and activists. It not only chronicles Blais's intellectual growth but also reveals the real-life inspirations behind her fictional creations, offering a unique glimpse into the literary world of the time.