In 'The Dud Avocado', Elaine Dundy introduces us to Sally Jay Gorce, a spirited American in Paris who is on a quest for adventure and self-discovery. Frustrated by the conventions of her mundane upbringing, Sally dances through the vibrant, chaotic landscapes of 1950s Parisian life, brimming with humor and wit. As she navigates entangled romances, eccentric friendships, and the trials of growing up, her journey becomes a poignant exploration of freedom and identity. Can she find what she's truly searching for amidst the city of lights? Dundy's captivating prose makes this a delightful and introspective dive into youthful rebellion and the essence of finding oneself.
By Elaine Dundy
Published: 2007
"Life is like a ripe avocado; you have to take a chance to really enjoy it."
A smart, funny classic about a young and beautiful American woman who moves to Paris determined to live life to the fullest. The Dud Avocado follows the romantic and comedic adventures of a young American who heads overseas to conquer Paris in the late 1950s. Edith Wharton and Henry James wrote about the American girl abroad, but it was Elaine Dundy’s Sally Jay Gorce who told us what she was really thinking. Charming, sexy, and hilarious, The Dud Avocado gained instant cult status when it was first published and it remains a timeless portrait of a woman hell-bent on living. “I had to tell someone how much I enjoyed The Dud Avocado. It made me laugh, scream, and guffaw (which, incidentally, is a great name for a law firm).” –Groucho Marx "[The Dud Avocado] is one of the best novels about growing up fast..." -The Guardian
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“Life is like a ripe avocado; you have to take a chance to really enjoy it.”
The Dud Avocado
By Elaine Dundy
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Elaine Dundy (1921–2008) was an acclaimed American novelist, playwright, and biographer, best known for her sharp wit and keen insights into human relationships. Her most notable works include 'The Dud Avocado' (1958), a semi-autobiographical novel that captures the exuberance and challenges of a young American woman's life in Paris, and 'The Old Man and Me' (1963), which showcases her unique ability to blend humor with a deep understanding of character. Dundy's writing style is characterized by its lively prose, vivid characterization, and a penchant for exploring the complexities of love and identity.
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