Maria Semple

Maria Semple is an American novelist and screenwriter. She is best known for her novel 'Where'd You Go, Bernadette,' which was adapted into a feature film. Semple has also written for television shows such as 'Arrested Development' and 'Mad About You.'

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Where’d You Go, Bernadette

    The book centers around an agoraphobic architect named Bernadette Fox, who goes missing prior to a family trip to Antarctica. Her 15-year-old daughter, Bee, compiles email correspondence, official documents, and secret correspondence in an effort to trace her mother's whereabouts. Through this unconventional narrative, the novel explores themes of motherhood, identity, and the pressures of genius, all while offering a satirical take on the tech industry and upper-middle-class America. The story unfolds with a blend of humor and heart, ultimately revealing the complex relationship between Bernadette and her daughter, as well as Bernadette's own troubled past.

    The 9973rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Today Will Be Different

    The story follows Eleanor Flood, a woman determined to tackle her chaotic life with newfound resolve, only to find her day unraveling in unexpected ways. As she navigates a series of comedic and poignant mishaps, Eleanor confronts her past, her relationships, and her own self-imposed limitations. Through a blend of humor and introspection, the narrative explores themes of personal growth, family dynamics, and the often unpredictable nature of daily life, ultimately highlighting the resilience and adaptability required to embrace change and find meaning in the everyday.

  3. 3. This One Is Mine

    Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, this novel delves into the complexities of modern marriage and personal fulfillment. The story follows Violet Parry, a former television writer turned stay-at-home mom, who seemingly has it all—a successful husband, a beautiful home, and a loving daughter. However, beneath the surface, she grapples with a sense of dissatisfaction and longing for something more. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, her life becomes intertwined with a cast of quirky and flawed characters, leading to unexpected consequences and revelations about love, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness.

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