Acclaimed author Elizabeth McCracken, known for her works like the National Book Award finalist “The Giant’s House,” recently discussed her latest publication, “A Long Game: Notes on Writing Fiction.” McCracken, who holds the James A. Michener Chair in Fiction at the University of Texas at Austin, shared insights into her writing process and the impact of her reading experiences.
The new book has been described as a guide to writing that combines humor and wisdom, appealing not only to aspiring writers but also to general readers. McCracken expressed her delight that readers find enjoyment in her work, stating, “It’s divided into 280 sections, with an index.”
Reflecting on her creative journey, McCracken noted that the initial drafts of her book were challenging. She initially struggled with whom the audience would be, but once she focused on writing for herself, the process became more enjoyable. “Writing without aiming it at writers allowed me to enjoy the process, which is essential for me,” she revealed.
Insights from the National Book Awards
In addition to her writing, McCracken served as a judge for the National Book Awards this past year. She read numerous submissions and praised the quality of the works she encountered. When asked about her favorite book from the shortlisted titles, she highlighted Yiyun Li’s “Things in Nature Merely Grow” as the standout in nonfiction.
Despite the excitement surrounding her judging role, she humorously remarked, “We judges are expressly forbidden from gossiping about the process at all.” Nonetheless, McCracken acknowledged the talent present in both the long and short lists, emphasizing her admiration for all the nominated authors.
She also shared her personal recommendations, mentioning Bruce Chatwin’s “Utz” and Gwendolyn Brooks’ “Maud Martha” as two significant reads that have shaped her literary preferences.
Literary Influences and Personal Reflections
When reflecting on her childhood, McCracken cited Kay Thompson’s “Eloise” as a pivotal book that influenced her early imagination. The story’s mix of fantasy and melancholy resonated deeply with her, igniting her passion for storytelling. “I loved everything about it, from the fantasy of living in a hotel to the complex character of Eloise herself,” she stated.
In a candid moment, she recalled being the first person to read her friend Ann Patchett’s “Bel Canto.” This experience left a lasting impression, as she vividly remembered the setting and the transformative power of the narrative. “I was reading something I knew was changing me, and would change everyone who read it,” she said.
As for her current reading list, McCracken is eagerly anticipating Lauren Hough’s “Monster of a Land,” scheduled for release in 2026. She described it as reminiscent of “Travels With Charley” but unique in its execution, praising Hough’s brilliance.
McCracken’s literary journey is marked by a continuous evolution in her reading habits. While she traditionally enjoys literary novels and short stories, she expressed a desire to explore more translated works. “I would like to read more books in translation,” she noted.
Her love for language is apparent, as she emphasized that poorly constructed sentences are hard for her to overlook. “Language is the most appealing aspect of a book for me,” she explained.
As a lifelong reader, McCracken’s journey has been shaped by influential figures, particularly her mother and brother, who nurtured her love for books. She fondly recalled her brother, Harry McCracken, as an important part of her reading development, crediting him with teaching her to read.
In closing, McCracken’s reflections on her writing and reading life provide an engaging glimpse into the world of literature. With “A Long Game” now available, readers can expect to find both inspiration and insight into the art of storytelling.
