The Most Likely Club

August 29, 2022
In the delightful latest from Friedland (Last Summer at the Golden Hotel), four women celebrate their 25th high school reunion. Of the four, only Suki Hammer, whose school superlative was “Most Likely to Join the Forbes 400,” feels fulfilled. Melissa Levin, meanwhile, divorced her high school sweetheart and worries about her weight; Tara Taylor aspired to be a chef before she was sexually assaulted by a culinary celebrity; and Priya Chowdhury, a doctor, second-guesses her successes after overhearing her colleagues’ racist and sexist comments about her. A lot of the details are delivered in exposition, such as a magazine article that outlines how Suki manages to keep up a successful and happy life. Furthermore, a glut of 1990s references—Tara’s “Courtney Love” look, coveted Oakley sunglasses—eventually slips into overkill. Still, Friedland keeps up a steady supply of clever lines to convey the women’s mix of excitement and dread over the big event (“Like a migraine, the weekend of the reunion arrived without warning”). The author also does a good job with the heavier themes—in addition to the racism and sexism, there are nuanced accounts of Tara’s sexual assault and Melissa’s eating disorder. Overall, this strikes a fine balance between lighthearted and serious. Agent: Stefanie Lieberman, Janklow & Nesbit Assoc.

June 10, 2024

Twenty-five years after their high school graduation, Tara, Priya, Suki, and Melissa are preparing for their high school reunion. The four women soon realize that only one of them has accomplished their yearbook "most likely to...," prompting them to make a pact to accomplish their goals, both professionally and personally. From the era of grunge music, Titanic, and new episodes of Friends to modern motherhood, careers, and middle age, these women have supported one another through highs and lows. Friedland (Last Summer at the Golden Hotel) has written a lighthearted novel that expertly navigates the complexities of female friendship. Narrator Kristen Sieh embodies each of the four women, enhancing each woman's unique personality and struggles while also providing insight into complex issues such as eating disorders, racism, sexism, and sexual assault. VERDICT This fun and relatable book leans heavily on the nostalgia, mentioning many of the trends, shows, and stereotypes of the late '90s, which will appeal to readers who have lived through that time. Recommend to readers looking for a story that tackles issues while also providing laughs.--Elyssa Everling

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