Allyson Reedy jokes she's

Allyson Reedy: Author and Inspiration

Allyson Reedy is a fiction writer, food journalist, and restaurant critic whose work appears in publications like The Denver Post, Bon Appétit, and 5280. She has authored several cookbooks, including 50 Things to Bake Before You Die and The Phone Eats First. Reedy lives in Broomfield with her husband, children, and pug.

Book Background and Inspiration

SunLit: Tell us about this book’s story and what inspired you to write it.

Allyson Reedy: "This is a The Great Gatsby retelling from Myrtle Wilson’s perspective, Tom Buchanan’s mistress in the original story. I’m a longtime Gatsby fan, having read the novel more than ten times. It was the first book I read to both of my babies, hoping it would be their introduction to English. I own over 50 copies, named my dog Gatsby, so yes, I’m definitely a bit obsessed."

Excerpt Selection and Context

SunLit: How does the selected excerpt fit into the book, and why did you choose it?

Allyson Reedy: "I chose part of the first chapter where we meet Myrtle and George, leading up to Myrtle’s pivotal subway encounter with Tom."

About SunLit

Every week, The Colorado Sun and Colorado Humanities & Center For The Book feature excerpts from Colorado authors along with interviews. You can explore the SunLit archives at coloradosun.com/sunlit.

Author’s summary: Allyson Reedy reimagines The Great Gatsby by telling the story from Myrtle Wilson's unique point of view, blending classic literature with a fresh, modern voice.

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The Colorado Sun The Colorado Sun — 2025-11-03

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