Ali Benjamin

Ali Benjamin is an American author known for her work in children's and young adult literature. She gained recognition for her novel 'The Thing About Jellyfish,' which was a National Book Award finalist.

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. The Smash Up

    Set against the backdrop of a small New England town during the tumultuous political climate of 2018, this novel explores the unraveling of a seemingly perfect family. The story follows Ethan, a once-successful filmmaker, as he grapples with the chaos of his personal life, including his wife's growing activism and his daughter's struggles at school. As tensions rise, Ethan is forced to confront his own values and the choices that have led to the disintegration of his marriage and career. The narrative deftly weaves together themes of privilege, identity, and the complexities of modern relationships, offering a poignant reflection on the societal shifts of the time.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  2. 2. The Thing About Jellyfish

    In this poignant and thought-provoking novel, a young girl named Suzy grapples with the sudden death of her best friend, Franny, who drowned in a tragic accident. Struggling to make sense of the loss, Suzy becomes convinced that a rare jellyfish sting was the cause, leading her on a quest for answers. As she navigates the complexities of grief, friendship, and growing up, Suzy's journey is interwoven with scientific curiosity and a deep desire to understand the world around her, ultimately revealing the healing power of acceptance and the importance of cherishing memories.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org