Reese Witherspoon has selected Crystal Smith Paul’s Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? as the latest pick for her popular book club.
Paul’s debut novel, published Tuesday by Henry Holt, follows three Black sisters from a wealthy Hollywood family who inherit the estate of their neighbor, a famous White retired actor. One of the sisters makes a shocking discovery while reading her late neighbor’s journals. A critic for Kirkus wrote of the book, “With a plot worthy of a miniseries, an extensive cast, and a historical sweep, Paul succeeds in entertaining as well as enlightening.”
On the Virtual Book Tour podcast, Paul talked about her interest in fame as a subject. “I’ve always been very interested in the notion of celebrity…as a microcosm. I’m very into movies and storytelling in general. At one point, I did go to film school, and realized that it was writing, specifically, that I wanted to do.”
Witherspoon announced her selection on Instagram, saying, “This book is fascinating. I tore through the pages.…I could not put it down. It’s phenomenal, and I can’t wait for you to read it.”
Also on Instagram, Paul reacted to her novel’s pick, writing, “What a pub day! Thank you to @reesewitherspoon @reesesbookclub @hellosunshine for this incredible opportunity. I’m grateful for all the support and love and cannot wait for everyone to read my debut novel ‘Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?’!!! Let the good conversations begin!”
Michael Schaub, a journalist and regular contributor to NPR, lives near Austin, Texas.
