DIDION AND BABITZ

This audiobook should probably have been titled BABITZ AND DIDION as the author's real affection centers on writer/artist Eve Babitz, rather than writer Joan Didion. Anolik is a breezy, hip, self-indulgent, yet observant author. She often addresses the listener directly, sharing her methods and insights. As narrator, her voice takes some getting used to. But press on. Emma Roberts is the stronger performer. The stories of the two talented writers are captivating. They were exact opposites: Didion, diminutive and coolly ironic, did not want to be noticed; Babitz did. Sexually adventurous and bisexual, Babitz designed rock album covers before becoming a writer. Didion's and Babitz's lives intersected--until they didn't. Didion, who helped Babitz get published, was even editing her novel until Babitz "fired" her. A.D.M. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2025]