Elizabeth McCracken Discusses New Book and Literary Journey

Prominent author Elizabeth McCracken has released her latest book, titled A Long Game: Notes on Writing Fiction, which serves as both a guide to aspiring writers and a reflection on her own creative process. McCracken, who is known for her acclaimed works including the National Book Award finalist, The Giant’s House, has shared insights into her writing life and the impact of literature on her journey.

In a recent interview, McCracken expressed her delight in the writing experience of A Long Game, revealing that its creation was initially challenging. “The first draft was a slog—and also quite bad—because I was so fixated on who would read it,” she admitted. The shift occurred when she began writing without a specific audience in mind, allowing her to embrace the joy of the process. The book is divided into 280 sections and includes an index, blending humor and wisdom that appeals even to those not looking to write fiction.

McCracken’s reflections extend beyond her own work. Having served as a judge for the National Book Awards last year, she read numerous submissions and praised the quality of the shortlisted works. Among them, she highlighted Yiyun Li’s nonfiction piece, Things in Nature Merely Grow, as one of the best books published in the previous year.

When discussing the books that have influenced her, McCracken fondly recalled the childhood favorite Eloise by Kay Thompson. This book, with its whimsical narrative and complex protagonist, left a lasting impression on her. She also noted her current reading selection, Monster of a Land by Lauren Hough, which she describes as a modern take reminiscent of Travels With Charley.

The conversation turned to recommendations, where McCracken highlighted two smaller works that she cherishes: Utz by Bruce Chatwin and Maud Martha by Gwendolyn Brooks. Her diverse reading tastes reflect a commitment to literary exploration, particularly in the realm of “literary” novels and short stories, as well as a desire to delve into more translated literature.

Reflecting on her personal reading experiences, McCracken recalled a transformative moment when she was the first person to read her friend Ann Patchett’s novel, Bel Canto. The memory of reading it while perched on a barstool in Cambridge, Massachusetts, remains vivid for her, illustrating the profound impact literature can have on one’s life.

As she continues to navigate her literary career, McCracken remains open to new titles and authors. She plans to read The Rest of Our Lives by Benjamin Markovits next, demonstrating her ongoing engagement with the literary world.

In her closing thoughts, McCracken emphasized the importance of language in books, stating, “Terrible sentences are the one thing I can’t overlook.” This commitment to quality writing permeates her own work and reflects her dedication to the craft of storytelling. As she invites readers to share their recommendations, McCracken’s journey as an author and reader continues to inspire those who value the transformative power of literature.