"The Interestings" by Meg Wolitzer is a novel that follows a group of friends who first meet as teenagers at an arts summer camp in the 1970s and continue to navigate their lives into adulthood. The novel is primarily centered around the character of Jules Jacobson, an aspiring actress, and her relationships with her fellow campmates: Ash Wolf, a talented musician; Ethan Figman, a budding animator; Jonah Bay, a clever and sensitive son of famous folk singers; and Cathy Kiplinger, a shy but gifted artist.
As the friends grow up and pursue their passions, they face various challenges, successes, and disappointments. Wolitzer delves into their complex dynamics and explores themes of talent, ambition, envy, friendship, love, and the passage of time. The novel spans several decades, delving into the characters' careers, relationships, and personal struggles, as well as the evolving landscape of the arts world and societal changes.
"The Interestings" is a character-driven novel that delves into the intricacies of human relationships and the pursuit of dreams, while also examining the complexities of talent, privilege, and the passage of time. Wolitzer's keen observations and richly drawn characters make for a compelling exploration of the choices we make, the paths we take, and the enduring power of friendships.