Modern Good Reads discussion

I would also like to know the real meaning of 'Chick Lit'. Could somebody define it for me, please?

Dianne wrote: "According to Wiki:
Chick lit is genre fiction which addresses issues of modern womanhood, often humorously and lightheartedly.[1] The genre became popular in the late 1990s, with chick lit titles t..."

I think a hopeful ending is more of a requirement than a happy ending... I cant recall any chick lit that had a negative ending but I have read some that did not have stereotypical happy endings that you are guaranteed with romance.

Dianne, I tend to agree with Wiki. Thanks for posting their definition. I can think of a ChickLit example I read earlier this year - The Meryl Streep Movie Club, which is about four women in a family who journey through the illness of one of the women. Another one that comes to mind is the Help. Not always romantic, but usually a element of emotion involving women. It's early - first cup of coffee. If this makes no sense, just roll your eyes and move on. LOL

Dianne wrote: "According to Wiki:
Chick lit is genre fiction which addresses issues of modern womanhood, often humorously and lightheartedly.[1] The genre became popular in the late 1990s, with chick lit titles t..."

A ending for chick lit...of course every novel should have a ending to satisfy the reader, but let us not confuse a ending with a finish. Leave a tendril of curiosity, of trying to find the threat that makes the reader come back for the sequel or the series. Do not make it a finish, do not bury your heroine, protractor or even the son of a bitch that's always your stumble block. Think of the successful series and the cash they created.

I think it's the lighthearted, even humorous, aspect that sets Chick Lit apart from Women's Fiction. Chick Lit can have a more unexpected ending, but still pretty upbeat. One of my favorite Chick Lit books is Sushi for Beginners by Marian Keyes

I read somewhere that in 'Chick-Lit' the point of view can be from different characters. Is this true? Can some one enlighten me?
Thanks to all the those who've given explainations about this genre.

I love 'Chick-Lit' and I hate the way it's looked down upon by those with loftier expectations of books. A light-hearted, positive read is often the perfect 'pick-me-up' on a miserable winter day.

I don't feel the need to wade through epic tomes everyday. A jolly romp around the office/park or wherever is an excellent tonic for 'midweek blues' or even the dreaded 'Mother In Law missives'.

I prefer to read 'Chick-Lit' while drinking copious quantities of chilled white wine (A pinot is best, I have found.)Always helps with giggles in the right places.

I particularly like what I call 'Historical Chick-Lit'. That's those 'Bodice-Rippers' with a heroine who is 'Modern' (She shocks all the ladies of the ton by riding with her ankles showing and she has a nickname like 'Bobby'(Roberta) or Kat (Katherina)) And she offends her brothers (who are only marrying her off to the aging Duke of Boringbottom because they find her frivolous and in need of a 'stern hand'(What they mean is that she is intensely annoying due to higher brain power or excellent wit)

She always gets her man in the end (She takes the 'Season' by storm and tames the rakehell) And she always gets some sort of job. (helping in the local orphanage)

'historical chick-lit' is best served with Champagne (due to higher snobbery value)

Jackie wrote: "I love 'Chick-Lit' and I hate the way it's looked down upon by those with loftier expectations of books. A light-hearted, positive read is often the perfect 'pick-me-up' on a miserable winter day. ..."

Jackie wrote: "I love 'Chick-Lit' and I hate the way it's looked down upon by those with loftier expectations of books. A light-hearted, positive read is often the perfect 'pick-me-up' on a miserable winter day. ..."

Hi Jackie.
I like your post on 'chick-lit' and now I have a better idea of the type of literary genere it is. I guess I like chick-lit, too. Light hearted stories that change one's mind from foggy to sunny?
Could you suggest a book in this genre for me to read?
Many thanks!
Lilian

Lilian wrote: "Jackie wrote: "I love 'Chick-Lit' and I hate the way it's looked down upon by those with loftier expectations of books. A light-hearted, positive read is often the perfect 'pick-me-up' on a miserab..."

Lilian, I am going to wade through my kindle tonight and find some titles/authors for you. Your description of 'from foggy to sunny' is perfect. Well that's how I see them anyway.

I like chick-lit ... and hen-lit with older heroines! Sometimes I don't want to learn anything, and I just want a lighthearted escape, especially after reading something deep and meaningful. Kind of like sorbet after a heavy dinner.
Sandy

Sandra wrote: "I like chick-lit ... and hen-lit with older heroines! Sometimes I don't want to learn anything, and I just want a lighthearted escape, especially after reading something deep and meaningful. Kind o..."

That's exactly it Sandra. A perfect description. And Lillian I haven't forgotten, just was a little caught up with work.

Goodmorning, Jackie.
Don't worry. I have so many books to read, meanwhile. Seems I can never catch up.