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Meet the Newmans
Not yet published
Expected 6 Jan 26From #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Jennifer Niven, a novel about America’s favorite TV family, whose perfect façade starts to crack, for fans of Lessons in Chemistry and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
* * *
For two decades, Del and Dinah Newman and their sons, Guy and Shep, have ruled television as America’s Favorite Family. Millions of viewers tune in every week to watch them play flawless, black-and-white versions of themselves. But now it’s 1964, and the Newmans’ perfection suddenly feels woefully out of touch. Ratings are in free fall, as are the Newmans themselves. Del is keeping an explosive secret from his wife, and Dinah is slowly going numb—literally. Steady, stable Guy is hiding the truth about his love life, and rock ‘n roll idol Shep may finally be in real trouble.
When Del—the creative motor behind the show— is in a mysterious car accident, Dinah decides to take matters into her own hands. She hires Juliet Dunne, an outspoken young reporter, to help her write the final episode. But Dinah and Juliet have wildly different perspectives about what it means to be a woman, and a family, in 1964. Can the Newmans hold it together to change television history? Or will they be canceled before they ever have the chance?
Funny, big-hearted, and deeply moving, Meet the Newmans is a rich family story about the dual lives we lead. Because even when our lives aren’t televised weekly, we all have a behind-the-scenes.
* * *
For two decades, Del and Dinah Newman and their sons, Guy and Shep, have ruled television as America’s Favorite Family. Millions of viewers tune in every week to watch them play flawless, black-and-white versions of themselves. But now it’s 1964, and the Newmans’ perfection suddenly feels woefully out of touch. Ratings are in free fall, as are the Newmans themselves. Del is keeping an explosive secret from his wife, and Dinah is slowly going numb—literally. Steady, stable Guy is hiding the truth about his love life, and rock ‘n roll idol Shep may finally be in real trouble.
When Del—the creative motor behind the show— is in a mysterious car accident, Dinah decides to take matters into her own hands. She hires Juliet Dunne, an outspoken young reporter, to help her write the final episode. But Dinah and Juliet have wildly different perspectives about what it means to be a woman, and a family, in 1964. Can the Newmans hold it together to change television history? Or will they be canceled before they ever have the chance?
Funny, big-hearted, and deeply moving, Meet the Newmans is a rich family story about the dual lives we lead. Because even when our lives aren’t televised weekly, we all have a behind-the-scenes.
400 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication January 6, 2026
14840 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Niven
25 books15.1k followersJENNIFER NIVEN is the #1 New York Times and internationally bestselling author of All the Bright Places, Holding Up the Universe, and Breathless. Her books have been translated in over 75 languages and have won literary awards around the world.
An Emmy-award winning screenwriter, she co-wrote the script for the All the Bright Places movie— currently streaming on Netflix and starring Elle Fanning and Justice Smith. She is also the author of several narrative nonfiction titles and the Velva Jean historical fiction series.
Her latest YA novel, When We Were Monsters, was published September 2, and she has an adult novel-- Meet the Newmans-- releasing January 6, 2026.
Jennifer divides her time between coastal Georgia and Los Angeles with her husband and literary cats.
An Emmy-award winning screenwriter, she co-wrote the script for the All the Bright Places movie— currently streaming on Netflix and starring Elle Fanning and Justice Smith. She is also the author of several narrative nonfiction titles and the Velva Jean historical fiction series.
Her latest YA novel, When We Were Monsters, was published September 2, and she has an adult novel-- Meet the Newmans-- releasing January 6, 2026.
Jennifer divides her time between coastal Georgia and Los Angeles with her husband and literary cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
December 8, 2025
When I heard that Marin Ireland was going to be the audiobook narrator, I knew that I was going to enjoy the story. She is one of my favorites and she did an incredible job making this family come to life.
If you go into Meet the Newmans expecting a story that has a lot of excitement and a fast paced plot line, you might be disappointed. This is a slow burn similar to Lessons in Chemistry. It also reminded me of Taylor Jenkins Reid. Taylor would have loved to tell this story!
We get to know each memory of the family and what is happening in the present day. While I didn’t grow up in this era of the 1950-1960’s, for me personally though from what I understand, it felt true to the time period of women’s rights and other political happenings. We get family drama, coming of age, women’s rights, love triangles, and movie drama and tv show behind the scenes. I could absolutely visualize this story in my mind!
I hope you decide to give Meet the Newmans a chance!
If you go into Meet the Newmans expecting a story that has a lot of excitement and a fast paced plot line, you might be disappointed. This is a slow burn similar to Lessons in Chemistry. It also reminded me of Taylor Jenkins Reid. Taylor would have loved to tell this story!
We get to know each memory of the family and what is happening in the present day. While I didn’t grow up in this era of the 1950-1960’s, for me personally though from what I understand, it felt true to the time period of women’s rights and other political happenings. We get family drama, coming of age, women’s rights, love triangles, and movie drama and tv show behind the scenes. I could absolutely visualize this story in my mind!
I hope you decide to give Meet the Newmans a chance!
December 15, 2025
4-4.5 stars, i enjoyed this SO much! this is out in Jan and will deff be a buzzy read. so many readers will enjoy this book & learning about the Newman’s!
read if you liked: LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY, THESE SUMMER STORMS and TJR’s writing style.
this is a fam drama following a family w a famous tv show and is set in the 1960s. basically there’s a big accident and it causes everything in the Newman family to change. it also explores the roles women have in society and how it’s all starting to shift. deff had some eye opening moments for me especially when i realized the 1960s weren’t even THAT long ago… it was also so fun seeing each character come into their path and figure out what they wanted.
i love this authors work and writing style so much. she has historically dabbled with YA plots but this is deff an adult novel and she killed it!
my only critique is the pacing—i felt like the middle was a bit long and that made the ending feel quick to me but that’s a minor issue.
this was a very entertaining family drama and is fab on audio—Marin Ireland narrates and does amazing per usual!
thanks to Macmillan audio for the gifted early ALC get excited for this to come out come Jan 💙✨🎧
read if you liked: LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY, THESE SUMMER STORMS and TJR’s writing style.
this is a fam drama following a family w a famous tv show and is set in the 1960s. basically there’s a big accident and it causes everything in the Newman family to change. it also explores the roles women have in society and how it’s all starting to shift. deff had some eye opening moments for me especially when i realized the 1960s weren’t even THAT long ago… it was also so fun seeing each character come into their path and figure out what they wanted.
i love this authors work and writing style so much. she has historically dabbled with YA plots but this is deff an adult novel and she killed it!
my only critique is the pacing—i felt like the middle was a bit long and that made the ending feel quick to me but that’s a minor issue.
this was a very entertaining family drama and is fab on audio—Marin Ireland narrates and does amazing per usual!
thanks to Macmillan audio for the gifted early ALC get excited for this to come out come Jan 💙✨🎧
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
4.5 rounded to 5 stars
This was a very good book!! Set in the 60s,it is about an all American family that portrays themselves on TV. They suddenly find themselves without their patriarch and each character has to expand their horizons. They discover that they need to push the boundaries and have themselves, and possibly the country, grow along with them.
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
This was a very good book!! Set in the 60s,it is about an all American family that portrays themselves on TV. They suddenly find themselves without their patriarch and each character has to expand their horizons. They discover that they need to push the boundaries and have themselves, and possibly the country, grow along with them.
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2025
I'm still trying to come up with the right words to describe this fabulous book. It was unexpected, witty, charming and heart wrenching all at once. I adored the main cast of characters, I loved reading a book set in the 60s and it reminded me of a Taylor Jenkins Reid novel in the way it was just so wonderfully unexpected. Highly recommend! Thank you to Pan Macmillan for sending me an advance copy.
November 30, 2025
ARC for review. To be published January 6, 2026.
4 stars
What life MIGHT have been like (but wasn’t) behind the scene for Ozzie and Harriet. Here are the Newmans, Del and Dinah (perfect 50s names) and adult sons Guy and Shep also pretty spot on) who have been on a show, first radio, now TV, for twenty years. However it’s now the mid 1960s so their square, family-friendly comedy isn’t what America is interested in anymore in the age of the Beatles, the Pill and the death of JFK. Plus all the Newmans have secrets (oh, you just knew they were gonna.) Looks like their charmed existence is going to come to an end until the fickle finger of fate intervenes and Dinah and a local female reporter for a Los Angeles daily have a chance to change everything.
I mostly enjoyed this female empowerment story, though it’s all a little pat, I say that, realizing I’m glossing over how HARD women had to work in the 50s and 60s (and, um, any time) to be taken seriously, to not get treated as the secretary, regardless of job title, to make any strides forward. The author maybe tried to shoehorn in a few too many social issues, which I guess is better than ignoring them, but sometimes it felt like none of them really got their due. Overall, though, recommended if the description appeals.
4 stars
What life MIGHT have been like (but wasn’t) behind the scene for Ozzie and Harriet. Here are the Newmans, Del and Dinah (perfect 50s names) and adult sons Guy and Shep also pretty spot on) who have been on a show, first radio, now TV, for twenty years. However it’s now the mid 1960s so their square, family-friendly comedy isn’t what America is interested in anymore in the age of the Beatles, the Pill and the death of JFK. Plus all the Newmans have secrets (oh, you just knew they were gonna.) Looks like their charmed existence is going to come to an end until the fickle finger of fate intervenes and Dinah and a local female reporter for a Los Angeles daily have a chance to change everything.
I mostly enjoyed this female empowerment story, though it’s all a little pat, I say that, realizing I’m glossing over how HARD women had to work in the 50s and 60s (and, um, any time) to be taken seriously, to not get treated as the secretary, regardless of job title, to make any strides forward. The author maybe tried to shoehorn in a few too many social issues, which I guess is better than ignoring them, but sometimes it felt like none of them really got their due. Overall, though, recommended if the description appeals.
September 7, 2025
I knew I would greatly enjoy this book because there has never been a Jennifer Niven book that I didn't like, but just wow I loved this book SO much
The Newman's - America's favourite TV family - have been in the spotlight for two decades, but now it's 1964, TV is making the change to colour and the world is changing, and suddenly it doesn't seem like the perfect family fit into the new world, now seeming woefully out of touch.
After Del, the father of the family and runner of the show, ends up in a car crash, Dinah, who has always just been the perfect housewife, hires a young, outspoken news reporter, Juliet, to help her write the final episode of the show. But Dinah and Juliet have very different ideas of what it means to be a woman in the 60's, and Dinah is left questioning if they can bring themselves into the modern times or will the show will be cancelled forever?
Behind the scenes, oldest son Guy is hiding a secret about his love life, and Shep, the younger son and a rock n' roll star, has gotten himself into big trouble and doesn't know how he'll possibly get out of it this time.
This book dealt with so many important issues, from the Civil Rights movement, to feminism, to gay rights. Each character finds themselves slowly finding out more about the world and the issues that plague people every single day.
The characters were beautifully written, feeling so tangible and real.
The book had many truly funny moments that had be laughing out loud, while also being totally heartwarming and gut wrenching all at the same time.
This book was so enjoyable, I absolutely adored it, I'm so excited for it to come out in January so that everyone can Meet the Newman's
The Newman's - America's favourite TV family - have been in the spotlight for two decades, but now it's 1964, TV is making the change to colour and the world is changing, and suddenly it doesn't seem like the perfect family fit into the new world, now seeming woefully out of touch.
After Del, the father of the family and runner of the show, ends up in a car crash, Dinah, who has always just been the perfect housewife, hires a young, outspoken news reporter, Juliet, to help her write the final episode of the show. But Dinah and Juliet have very different ideas of what it means to be a woman in the 60's, and Dinah is left questioning if they can bring themselves into the modern times or will the show will be cancelled forever?
Behind the scenes, oldest son Guy is hiding a secret about his love life, and Shep, the younger son and a rock n' roll star, has gotten himself into big trouble and doesn't know how he'll possibly get out of it this time.
This book dealt with so many important issues, from the Civil Rights movement, to feminism, to gay rights. Each character finds themselves slowly finding out more about the world and the issues that plague people every single day.
The characters were beautifully written, feeling so tangible and real.
The book had many truly funny moments that had be laughing out loud, while also being totally heartwarming and gut wrenching all at the same time.
This book was so enjoyable, I absolutely adored it, I'm so excited for it to come out in January so that everyone can Meet the Newman's
December 6, 2025
••• ALC REVIEW •••
📖 Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Do I recommend: Yes!
***Available January 6***
Ohhhh I really liked this one, y’all. It truly had something for everyone, and it had so much heart.
It is 1964, and the Newman family (Del and Dinah and their sons Guy and Shep) are stars of their very popular TV show. But as the world changes, the Newmans can sense that their reign as America’s favorite family is coming to an end. Just as they’re grappling with this, lots of big things begin to happen for each of them individually and they are left to determine how to share it on their show - perhaps for the last time.
THIS WAS SO UNEXPECTEDLY CHARMING AND DELIGHTFUL. I found myself rooting for these characters, likely because they had *such* good character development. Once I got into the story it moved quickly and I was having so much fun back in the 60s. Along with the fun did come the reminder of how life was for anyone who wasn’t a straight, white male - relevant topics then and now.
This was narrated BRILLIANTLY by Marin Ireland - she brought the perfect balance of levity and depth in all the right places.
I think fans of Lessons in Chemistry or The Book Club for Troublesome Women will enjoy this one! Thank you to MacMillan Audio for the free copy as part of the Early Listeners program in exchange for my honest review!
#MacAudio2025
📖 Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Do I recommend: Yes!
***Available January 6***
Ohhhh I really liked this one, y’all. It truly had something for everyone, and it had so much heart.
It is 1964, and the Newman family (Del and Dinah and their sons Guy and Shep) are stars of their very popular TV show. But as the world changes, the Newmans can sense that their reign as America’s favorite family is coming to an end. Just as they’re grappling with this, lots of big things begin to happen for each of them individually and they are left to determine how to share it on their show - perhaps for the last time.
THIS WAS SO UNEXPECTEDLY CHARMING AND DELIGHTFUL. I found myself rooting for these characters, likely because they had *such* good character development. Once I got into the story it moved quickly and I was having so much fun back in the 60s. Along with the fun did come the reminder of how life was for anyone who wasn’t a straight, white male - relevant topics then and now.
This was narrated BRILLIANTLY by Marin Ireland - she brought the perfect balance of levity and depth in all the right places.
I think fans of Lessons in Chemistry or The Book Club for Troublesome Women will enjoy this one! Thank you to MacMillan Audio for the free copy as part of the Early Listeners program in exchange for my honest review!
#MacAudio2025
December 2, 2025
A feminist/historical fiction/family drama set in the 1960’s. The story is well crafted with interesting characters. There are lots of social/societal issues of the times addressed throughout the novel. There may have been a few too many of those issues for me and they were all wrapped up a little too neatly to be plausible in 1964. I did enjoy the story though. I think fans of Lessons in Chemistry will love this one. The narration on the audiobook by Marin Ireland and Tim Campbell is excellent.
3.5/5
3.5/5
November 9, 2025
A beautiful, big hearted book, full of love and family. I loved this from the first chapter, Dinah reeled me in with her quiet smile and strong character. The narrative of telling the story almost in reverse was such a brilliant idea, I was hooked on what would happen to Del and the rest of his family. Shep, Guy, Juliet, Kelly and all the side characters were written so well and with so much emotion.
Although set in the 60s, this book has so much relevance, from the love stories to the fight for women’s rights. This felt like such a heavy book, both to read and to write. I can tell that so much research went into this, and as a result I really felt enveloped by this world and its characters. There were several times where I felt myself tearing up reading this, rooting for the women, Guy, Kelly, and all the other underdogs in this story, who are real examples of those who fought for the rights we have now. I loved this book, it was a pleasure and joy to read, one of my favourites for sure. I’m so happy to have Met the Newmans, the real Newmans.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. #MeetTheNewmans #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Although set in the 60s, this book has so much relevance, from the love stories to the fight for women’s rights. This felt like such a heavy book, both to read and to write. I can tell that so much research went into this, and as a result I really felt enveloped by this world and its characters. There were several times where I felt myself tearing up reading this, rooting for the women, Guy, Kelly, and all the other underdogs in this story, who are real examples of those who fought for the rights we have now. I loved this book, it was a pleasure and joy to read, one of my favourites for sure. I’m so happy to have Met the Newmans, the real Newmans.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for kindly providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. #MeetTheNewmans #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 16, 2025
[2.5] i’ve seen other reviews saying this felt like a ‘taylor jenkins reid’ book, and while i don’t necessarily disagree with that, i can’t say it’s anywhere close to being on the same scale as the former’s writing for me. i think potentially the author was trying too hard to create a book in the style of another author and it just lacked a bit of direction as a result. i can definitely see the potential of a story like this, and i did enjoy hearing about the tv show - but so much more could have been done like this!! we got one chapter of a ‘script’ format, and considering the finale and the tv show was one of the main plot points, i though this would have been such a fun way to show more of that. i didn’t find many of the other characters very likeable, but i did enjoy shep, as well as guy and kelly ❤️🩹.
thank you to netgalley and pan macmillan for the advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
thank you to netgalley and pan macmillan for the advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2025
loved!! highly recommend if you liked lessons in chemistry!
December 22, 2025
Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven is a heartfelt, endearing, and often funny character driven story about a modern American family navigating enormous change in the 1960s. I loved the unique setup of a beloved black and white TV family whose carefully curated public image begins to crack behind the scenes—it’s such a compelling lens for exploring identity, truth, and belonging. Niven weaves in meaningful depth as she tackles sexuality, feminism, race, and societal expectations of the era, all while keeping the story warm, charming, and deeply human. Though firmly historical, the themes feel strikingly relevant today, making this a relatable and emotionally resonant read for just about everyone.
December 7, 2025
Del and Dinah Newman, along with their sons Guy and Shep, have been the most popular perfect family on the most popular TV show for 2 decades. Behind the scenes, though, it isn’t quite so perfect. The family members are all different from their on-screen personas and are hiding things from the public and from each other. Now in 1964 the show seems out of touch and old-fashioned. It’s no longer a Newman world; the Beatles have arrived, Civil Rights are front and center, and the Vietnam War is escalating. Ratings are dipping and the Newman world is falling apart. Can they manage to hold it together? Or will they have to live life as normal people and deal with being exposed?
Book clubs will find lots to talk about here — from nostalgic tv and messy behind-the-scenes peeks to feminist awakenings, queer-friendly content, and rock ballads. I can’t wait to tell everyone about it. 4.5/5 stars!
Thanks to Flatiron Books, Macmillan Audio, Jennifer Niven (author), Edelweiss, and Libro,fm for providing an advance digital review copy and an advance listening copy (narrated by Marin Ireland and Tim Campbell) of Meet the Newmans. Their generosity does not influence my reviews in any way.
Book clubs will find lots to talk about here — from nostalgic tv and messy behind-the-scenes peeks to feminist awakenings, queer-friendly content, and rock ballads. I can’t wait to tell everyone about it. 4.5/5 stars!
Thanks to Flatiron Books, Macmillan Audio, Jennifer Niven (author), Edelweiss, and Libro,fm for providing an advance digital review copy and an advance listening copy (narrated by Marin Ireland and Tim Campbell) of Meet the Newmans. Their generosity does not influence my reviews in any way.
November 26, 2025
Meet the Newmans pulled me in from the start, but what impressed me most was how each storyline ended. Every time a character’s arc reached its conclusion, I felt a real emotional chill—those moments where the writing hits you in a deep, unexpected way. These are the types of books I love to recommend. I’m excited to see how it will be received once it’s published.
December 1, 2025
3.5 stars. I liked the characters, but was hoping for more of a plot.
December 17, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up
December 13, 2025
3.5 stars
This was a mixed bag for me. I did love the characters and the 60s era setting. It was entertaining and enjoyable, but it left me wanting more.
This was a mixed bag for me. I did love the characters and the 60s era setting. It was entertaining and enjoyable, but it left me wanting more.
November 15, 2025
I took an Early TV (50s/60s) course in Uni, so it was nice to revisit the era in book form!
Not entirely sure how to describe my experience with this book, though. It was engaging, and made me feel for the characters, but it built up to an ending that felt quite flat and unrealistic to me.
I'd recommend it to people with an interest in the time period (mid 60s in California), in early TV, and distraught families with multiple POVs. You'll enjoy it particularly if you're in the mood for something character-driven and you're happy for the plot to take a back seat.
November 11, 2025
I received an advanced copy of "Meet the Newmans," by bestselling author, Jennifer Niven. The Newmans are both a TV family and a family in real-life. Every week a half-hour episode of their adventures reaches thousands of viewers.
Readers will find parallels to programs they may have seen in the past such as, "Leave it to Beaver, I Love Lucy, and even The Osbournes." For example, the wife, Dinah Newman is always wearing pearls, a dress, and heels like the fictional, June Cleaver of "Leave it to Beaver."
Dinah's husband, Del Newman, writes the scripts each week and controls almost every aspect of the show. This *control* spills over into their real lives as he tries to direct the career paths of his sons, Guy and Shep.
It's 1964. Kennedy has been assassinated. Viewers' tastes are changing. And the Newman's perfect life is no longer resonating with viewers. A meeting with a CBS executive, Aubrey, confirms that, "Meet the Newmans," will be canceled after a grand-finale episode unless a miracle happens. Aubrey demands an onscreen and real-life marriage to an actress who is playing Guy's girlfriend. This will dispel the rumors that Guy is gay.
The meeting shakes Del up. He has always been in control of the situation, and now, things are spiraling out-of-control. He's made a mess of their personal finances and if the show is canceled, the family will be in a difficult situation. He wants to escape and is driving erratically. Eventually, he loses control of the car running into a palm tree. His losing control of the car is symbolic of him losing control of his life.
When he slips into a coma, Dinah finds herself navigating the world without him. After a few days of just trying to process what's happened, she springs into action. One sponsor has pulled out of the show and in order for the last episode to even air, she must a replacement.
The dilemma is few people take Dinah seriously because she is a woman. As she tries to meet with executives of various companies, all the men waiting to see them are put ahead of her. It is in this moment that she faces what wives were facing every day in 1964. Their lives were controlled by men. Most of them couldn't get a credit card without having their husbands or a male relative co-sign.
The novel employs a variety of techniques. First, the story is told in the style of a third-person, omniscient narrator. It let's readers know what each major character is thinking and works well in this case.
Another is how the story is defined by life before and after the accident. Readers can compare the Newman's situation to their own life-changing events and how it can affect the choices that they make.
Feature articles are also inserted from both the past and the present. They occur before several chapters and give additional insight into how the show and its characters were being promoted. There's also a reviewer's critique which foreshadows how the Newman's TV dynasty is quickly coming to an end.
The novel is deeper than the cover design suggests. There's a picture of Dinah who resembles Doris Day. She's been chewing bubble gum and the bubble is about ready to burst. She is the only one whose features are defined and in color. In the background, her husband and sons are shown as black silhouettes.
The problem with the cover is it suggests that the novel is fluff, and I was somewhat reluctant to start reading it. However, I was pleasantly surprised at the deeper issues tackled in this yarn that defy those first impressions.
Many readers will enjoy reading this book, particularly if they are fans of author, Jennifer Niven.
Readers will find parallels to programs they may have seen in the past such as, "Leave it to Beaver, I Love Lucy, and even The Osbournes." For example, the wife, Dinah Newman is always wearing pearls, a dress, and heels like the fictional, June Cleaver of "Leave it to Beaver."
Dinah's husband, Del Newman, writes the scripts each week and controls almost every aspect of the show. This *control* spills over into their real lives as he tries to direct the career paths of his sons, Guy and Shep.
It's 1964. Kennedy has been assassinated. Viewers' tastes are changing. And the Newman's perfect life is no longer resonating with viewers. A meeting with a CBS executive, Aubrey, confirms that, "Meet the Newmans," will be canceled after a grand-finale episode unless a miracle happens. Aubrey demands an onscreen and real-life marriage to an actress who is playing Guy's girlfriend. This will dispel the rumors that Guy is gay.
The meeting shakes Del up. He has always been in control of the situation, and now, things are spiraling out-of-control. He's made a mess of their personal finances and if the show is canceled, the family will be in a difficult situation. He wants to escape and is driving erratically. Eventually, he loses control of the car running into a palm tree. His losing control of the car is symbolic of him losing control of his life.
When he slips into a coma, Dinah finds herself navigating the world without him. After a few days of just trying to process what's happened, she springs into action. One sponsor has pulled out of the show and in order for the last episode to even air, she must a replacement.
The dilemma is few people take Dinah seriously because she is a woman. As she tries to meet with executives of various companies, all the men waiting to see them are put ahead of her. It is in this moment that she faces what wives were facing every day in 1964. Their lives were controlled by men. Most of them couldn't get a credit card without having their husbands or a male relative co-sign.
The novel employs a variety of techniques. First, the story is told in the style of a third-person, omniscient narrator. It let's readers know what each major character is thinking and works well in this case.
Another is how the story is defined by life before and after the accident. Readers can compare the Newman's situation to their own life-changing events and how it can affect the choices that they make.
Feature articles are also inserted from both the past and the present. They occur before several chapters and give additional insight into how the show and its characters were being promoted. There's also a reviewer's critique which foreshadows how the Newman's TV dynasty is quickly coming to an end.
The novel is deeper than the cover design suggests. There's a picture of Dinah who resembles Doris Day. She's been chewing bubble gum and the bubble is about ready to burst. She is the only one whose features are defined and in color. In the background, her husband and sons are shown as black silhouettes.
The problem with the cover is it suggests that the novel is fluff, and I was somewhat reluctant to start reading it. However, I was pleasantly surprised at the deeper issues tackled in this yarn that defy those first impressions.
Many readers will enjoy reading this book, particularly if they are fans of author, Jennifer Niven.
November 26, 2025
Book Report: Meet the Newmans by Jennifer Niven
Meet the Newmans drops us straight into 1964…where America’s Favorite Family is anything but picture perfect behind the scenes. After two decades of ruling primetime…the Newmans’ ratings are slipping and so are the cracks in their glossy façade. Del is hiding a life altering secret…Dinah is slowly going numb (physically and otherwise)…Guy is navigating love he can’t share on camera and golden boy Shep’s charm might finally be wearing thin. When Del ends up in a mysterious car accident…Dinah teams up with Juliet Dunne a fiery young reporter to write the final episode that could rewrite the family’s legacy… or end it all📺✨
Ahhhhh I loved this book. Like… LOVED😍 I’ve adored Jennifer Niven’s YA novels…so seeing her name on this stunning…nostalgic cover made me instantly giddy. As someone who is obsessed with classic entertainment and anything that makes me feel like I’m back in my grandparents living room…this book felt made for me. If you know the first family reality show An American Family…this gives that but with all the behind-the-scenes drama we know was happening off camera.
The 60s vibes? Immaculate 📺 The family tension? Chef’s kiss. Dinah? A complete force of nature and the leading lady we need right now💄🔥This novel feels like a time capsule…full of charm…wit…heartbreak…ambition and the messy beautiful truth about the dual lives we all lead. It made me laugh…it made me nostalgic and it made me fall head over heels for a fictional family❤️✨
If you love retro glamour…layered family drama or stories that pull you right behind the curtain…this is the read.
Thank you Flatiron Books and Macmillan Audio for the gifted copy.
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Meet the Newmans drops us straight into 1964…where America’s Favorite Family is anything but picture perfect behind the scenes. After two decades of ruling primetime…the Newmans’ ratings are slipping and so are the cracks in their glossy façade. Del is hiding a life altering secret…Dinah is slowly going numb (physically and otherwise)…Guy is navigating love he can’t share on camera and golden boy Shep’s charm might finally be wearing thin. When Del ends up in a mysterious car accident…Dinah teams up with Juliet Dunne a fiery young reporter to write the final episode that could rewrite the family’s legacy… or end it all📺✨
Ahhhhh I loved this book. Like… LOVED😍 I’ve adored Jennifer Niven’s YA novels…so seeing her name on this stunning…nostalgic cover made me instantly giddy. As someone who is obsessed with classic entertainment and anything that makes me feel like I’m back in my grandparents living room…this book felt made for me. If you know the first family reality show An American Family…this gives that but with all the behind-the-scenes drama we know was happening off camera.
The 60s vibes? Immaculate 📺 The family tension? Chef’s kiss. Dinah? A complete force of nature and the leading lady we need right now💄🔥This novel feels like a time capsule…full of charm…wit…heartbreak…ambition and the messy beautiful truth about the dual lives we all lead. It made me laugh…it made me nostalgic and it made me fall head over heels for a fictional family❤️✨
If you love retro glamour…layered family drama or stories that pull you right behind the curtain…this is the read.
Thank you Flatiron Books and Macmillan Audio for the gifted copy.
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
December 5, 2025
Fame, family, and fierce women 🎬 This book had me hooked from page one! Thank you, Macmillan Audio, for the gifted copy of Meet the Newmans {partner}
Genre: Historical
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 1.6.2026
Pages: 400
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆
I loved the 60s vibes in this book—it instantly transported me to a world of classic entertainment, big hair, and bigger personalities! I realized I haven’t read many books from this era, and now I definitely need more. The story gave me serious Brady Bunch energy, but with way more drama, intrigue, and behind-the-scenes chaos.
Watching the Newman family navigate fame, personal ambitions, and complicated relationships was such a treat. Dinah’s journey stood out—her struggle to find her footing in a male-dominated world felt real, inspiring, and layered with growth. Every character had depth, and I loved seeing how they evolved over time.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the book doesn’t shy away from important social issues. From the civil rights movement to feminism to gay rights, these themes are woven seamlessly into the story, adding layers of meaning to the family drama.
Audiobook Review: ☆☆☆☆☆
Meet the Newmans is narrated by Marin Ireland (one of my favs!) and, obviously, she knocked this one out of the park. I always love when Ireland narrates a family drama because she gets every character’s personality just right and nails the emotional layers of the story.
Read if you enjoy:
🎬 1960s Hollywood
💪🏼 Strong Female Characters
🏡 Family drama
✨ Stories that explore important social issues
If you love a mix of family fun, behind-the-scenes chaos, and historical context, this one is a must-read!
______
#MeettheNewmans #JenniferNiven #MacmillanAudiobook #MacmillanAudioParnter #AudiobookAdvocate #CurrentlyListening MustRead
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Genre: Historical
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 1.6.2026
Pages: 400
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆
I loved the 60s vibes in this book—it instantly transported me to a world of classic entertainment, big hair, and bigger personalities! I realized I haven’t read many books from this era, and now I definitely need more. The story gave me serious Brady Bunch energy, but with way more drama, intrigue, and behind-the-scenes chaos.
Watching the Newman family navigate fame, personal ambitions, and complicated relationships was such a treat. Dinah’s journey stood out—her struggle to find her footing in a male-dominated world felt real, inspiring, and layered with growth. Every character had depth, and I loved seeing how they evolved over time.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the book doesn’t shy away from important social issues. From the civil rights movement to feminism to gay rights, these themes are woven seamlessly into the story, adding layers of meaning to the family drama.
Audiobook Review: ☆☆☆☆☆
Meet the Newmans is narrated by Marin Ireland (one of my favs!) and, obviously, she knocked this one out of the park. I always love when Ireland narrates a family drama because she gets every character’s personality just right and nails the emotional layers of the story.
Read if you enjoy:
🎬 1960s Hollywood
💪🏼 Strong Female Characters
🏡 Family drama
✨ Stories that explore important social issues
If you love a mix of family fun, behind-the-scenes chaos, and historical context, this one is a must-read!
______
#MeettheNewmans #JenniferNiven #MacmillanAudiobook #MacmillanAudioParnter #AudiobookAdvocate #CurrentlyListening MustRead
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/chaptersofc...
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November 29, 2025
Many thanks to @macmillian.audio and @flatiron_books for my copies. I was super excited to read this one. I love the timeframe, and I always enjoy Niven’s YA books.
Talk about all the I Love Lucy vibes!!! This book was incredible and extremely uplifting. Taking place during a time when the 50s perfection is changing and society wants a more accurate portrayal of life, we literally Meet the Newmans. Each character is so fleshed out and layered..even the side characters! Their growth, dynamics and evolution throughout the novel was empowering, thought provoking and heartwarming.
I did a combo of reading with my eyeballs and my ears, and the audio was really well done. Each character had a voice, it really brought the story to life and made me connect with the characters on a different level. I really loved Dinah and the character path she grew into.
This book has it all. Its funny, brings up important issues, will make you tear up and fall in love. Is it too early to have a favorite of 2026 because I may have already found it.
Talk about all the I Love Lucy vibes!!! This book was incredible and extremely uplifting. Taking place during a time when the 50s perfection is changing and society wants a more accurate portrayal of life, we literally Meet the Newmans. Each character is so fleshed out and layered..even the side characters! Their growth, dynamics and evolution throughout the novel was empowering, thought provoking and heartwarming.
I did a combo of reading with my eyeballs and my ears, and the audio was really well done. Each character had a voice, it really brought the story to life and made me connect with the characters on a different level. I really loved Dinah and the character path she grew into.
This book has it all. Its funny, brings up important issues, will make you tear up and fall in love. Is it too early to have a favorite of 2026 because I may have already found it.
November 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this. The Newmans are the perfect, all American family. Their hit television show is so close to their life you could be forgiven for thinking they are one and the same, but what started out as true in the Fifties has become less so in the mid Sixties and after Del, the husband and power behind the show is incapacitated in an accident, it is left to Dinah, the mother, to step up to the plate and keep the show on the road. As she struggles to come to terms with everything that is happening to her husband, the cracks in the perfect family unit really begin to show. This is absorbing and entertaining in equal measures.
December 5, 2025
It was fine. Family drama set in a unique way as we follow a traditional family on a reality show about themselves living life. I was excited for the 1960’s time period but I think what made it not work well for me was 2025 thinking regarding social aspects and character opinions and voice. It doesn’t ring true to me set in a historical context. 60 years ago I don’t think they would be as “forward” thinking as posed in this book. This is a beef I have with some historical fiction.
More character driven as we followed each pov and their struggles. Could have used more plot.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the gifted ALC.
More character driven as we followed each pov and their struggles. Could have used more plot.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the gifted ALC.
December 5, 2025
Uhm, yes, hi. Please add this to your TBR. Like immediately.
This listen was everything. I am all about the female empowerment that was so desperately needed in the 1960s. Dinah finally coming into her own was so well done because at no point did the author minimize Dinah's position before her decision to take control of her life. Her two sons also finally finding their way to become more than just the tv personalities the world expected from them was great. I seriously just loved every second of this story.
Thank you to Jennifer Niven and Macmillan Audio for an advance copy of this audiobook!
This listen was everything. I am all about the female empowerment that was so desperately needed in the 1960s. Dinah finally coming into her own was so well done because at no point did the author minimize Dinah's position before her decision to take control of her life. Her two sons also finally finding their way to become more than just the tv personalities the world expected from them was great. I seriously just loved every second of this story.
Thank you to Jennifer Niven and Macmillan Audio for an advance copy of this audiobook!
December 15, 2025
Set in the 60’s, this bighearted historical fiction novel is funny, uplifting, and full of love. It thoughtfully explores important issues while delivering plenty of heart, you may laugh, you may tear up, and you will absolutely fall in love with the characters.
The story follows America’s favorite family as their picture-perfect image begins to crack. After two decades of ruling prime time, the ratings are slipping, and so is the carefully crafted façade. A heartfelt, memorable read I highly recommend.
The story follows America’s favorite family as their picture-perfect image begins to crack. After two decades of ruling prime time, the ratings are slipping, and so is the carefully crafted façade. A heartfelt, memorable read I highly recommend.
October 22, 2025
“Juliet turned those dark-rimmed eyes on her. "Are you saying its better we don't let girls grow up thinking they can do anything?"
Flora opened her mouth to say no, but instead, she said, "Believing you can do anything, that's different from having everything."
"So maybe that's not the goal," Eileen said to Flora, to Juliet, to al of them, her young voice filled with passion. "Maybe the goal is to have enough for you. Whatever that looks like."”
Flora opened her mouth to say no, but instead, she said, "Believing you can do anything, that's different from having everything."
"So maybe that's not the goal," Eileen said to Flora, to Juliet, to al of them, her young voice filled with passion. "Maybe the goal is to have enough for you. Whatever that looks like."”
December 16, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up. I wasn’t totally sure what to expect going into this one, but the audiobook had me hooked pretty quickly. Set in 1964, it follows America’s “perfect” TV family as the polished image they present to the world starts to crack behind the scenes.
Each member of the Newman family is carrying something they can’t quite say out loud, and I really loved how layered and human they all felt. The story does such a great job exploring identity, family roles, and the pressure to perform; especially for women during this time. The dynamic between Dinah and Juliet also added an interesting generational contrast that worked really well.
The audio was really well done and made both the quieter emotional moments and the humor land even more. Thoughtful, character-driven, and surprisingly moving, this one is a great pick if you love historical fiction that focuses on the messy, behind-the-scenes parts of family life.
Each member of the Newman family is carrying something they can’t quite say out loud, and I really loved how layered and human they all felt. The story does such a great job exploring identity, family roles, and the pressure to perform; especially for women during this time. The dynamic between Dinah and Juliet also added an interesting generational contrast that worked really well.
The audio was really well done and made both the quieter emotional moments and the humor land even more. Thoughtful, character-driven, and surprisingly moving, this one is a great pick if you love historical fiction that focuses on the messy, behind-the-scenes parts of family life.
December 16, 2025
3.5 stars
Fun story with WONDERFUL narrators. I can see the comparisons to Lessons in Chemistry, but this one didn’t feel quite as cheesy despite wrapping up quite conveniently for 1964!
Fun story with WONDERFUL narrators. I can see the comparisons to Lessons in Chemistry, but this one didn’t feel quite as cheesy despite wrapping up quite conveniently for 1964!
November 28, 2025
This is the most fun I’ve had reading a book since Mary Jane, which is one of the highest compliments I could ever pay a book. I LOVED these characters, every single one of them, and their brilliantly crafted world. I absolutely devoured it - all so glamorous and yet so imperfect. SO many secrets. A gorgeous book that’s both thought provoking and feel good.
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