2 Authors To Discuss New Books At Haddonfield Book Store

Cherry Hill author Pam Jenoff and Philadelphia author Janet Benton will discuss writing and their approaches to writing historical fiction at an independent book store in Haddonfield next week. Jenoff and Benton will appear at Inkwood Books, 31 Kings Highway East in Haddonfield on Friday, June 9.

Jenoff will read from her latest book, “The Orphan’s Tale.” Benton will read from her debut novel, “Lilli de Jong.” Both authors will sign books after their presentation.

A powerful novel of friendship set in a traveling circus during World War II, Jenoff’s “The Orphan's Tale” introduces two extraordinary women and their harrowing stories of sacrifice and survival.

NPR called “The Orphan’s Tale” a “tribute to the human spirit that soars in the midst of epic despair,” and “New York Times” bestselling author Melanie Benjamin said the novel is “a gripping story about the power of friendship to save and redeem even in the darkest of circumstances.”

Set in 1883 Philadelphia, “Lilli de Jong” tells the story of Lilli, an unwed Quaker, who had first planned to give up her daughter to avoid a life of shame and poverty. But after giving birth at an institution for unwed mothers (based on an actual Philadelphia institution), she becomes unwilling to give up the child, who by then has become the most powerful love of her life. “Lilli de Jong” is written in the form of her diary.

“Kirkus Reviews” calls the novel a “monumental accomplishment” and “an absorbing debut from a writer to watch.” “Library Journal,” in a starred review, writes, “Benton has written a captivating, page-turning, and well-researched novel about the power of a mother's love and the stark reality of the choices she must make.” “Shelf Awareness” calls it “a gorgeous paean to the fierceness and courage of a mother’s love.”

Christina Baker Kline, whose novel “Orphan Train” spent two years on the “New York Times” bestseller list, said “Lilli de Jong” is “beautifully written, emotionally resonant, and psychologically astute. . . . A gripping read,” and fellow “New York Times” bestselling author Jamie Ford calls Benton’s novel “a powerful, authentic voice for a generation of women whose struggles were erased from history. A heart-smashing debut that completely satisfies.”

Attached image of Janet Benton was provided