Quick Bright Things

by Michael Golding

QUICK BRIGHT THINGS is a delightful new novel about the Golden Age of Broadway. Set in New York in 1948, it follows Artie, a young rehearsal pianist, Joe, a visionary director, and Carrie, his intrepid Girl Friday, as they shepherd a production of a musical version of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM towards opening night. Drawn from the personal experiences of its author, QUICK BRIGHT THINGS is a glittering love letter to the Great White Way-and all the crazy, gifted people who keep it humming. 

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 4, 2023

About the author

MICHAEL GOLDING was born in Philadelphia and educated at Duke, Oxford, and the University of California at Irvine. He began his career as an actor, appearing in numerous Off-Broadway shows. His first novel, SIMPLE PRAYERS, was published in 1994 and has been translated into nine foreign languages. BENJAMIN’S GIFT, his second novel, was published in 1999. His translation of Alessandro Baricco’s stage play NOVECENTO opened the 2002 Edinburgh Festival and his screenplay adaptation of the best-selling novel SILK was a Featured Selection at the 2007 Toronto Film Festival. His third novel, A POET OF THE INVISIBLE WORLD, was published by Picador in 2015. It was nominated for the Lambda Literary Award and was the recipient of the Ferro-Grumley Award. His new novel, QUICK BRIGHT THINGS, was published in April of 2023.

Reviews

[Holly Budney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book charmed me from the very first page. It's warm, funny, and filled with characters you'll be so happy to spend your time with. I've loved all of Michael Golding's books, and Quick Bright Things is as clever and joyful and beautifully written as the rest. It recreates the experience of putting on a show -- and it even gives you songs to sing! You'll be so glad you read it!"

[Rachel Weisbart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved all of Michael Golding’s books, and as a former theater kid, Quick Bright Things has really found a special place in my heart. I felt like I was back in the rehearsal room, putting on a musical with all the fun, stress, and drama that entails. The characters are vibrant and complicated and I fell in love with all of them. And there’s sheet music at the end so you can sing the songs from the musical- What a treat!!! I will be recommending this book to all the readers in my life- especially the theater lovers!

[Rooja Mohassessy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a pleasure to read Michael Golding's work. This book is a delight. By the end, the characters are like friends. And there's warmth and humor along the way. As a poet, I particularly enjoyed the use of language. This book sings! I highly recommend.