Adam Silvera, whose first novel, More Happy Than Not, is due from SohoTeen June 2, is a native New Yorker, a former bookseller, and a frequenter of some Manhattan book lovers’ attractions that he reveals to BEA attendees who may not yet know about them.
But first, Silvera shares word of his debut novel, which has garnered impressive pre-pub accolades. Recipient of four starred reviews, including one from PW, More Happy Than Not centers on Aaron, a 16-year-old who wants to undergo a memory-altering procedure that will enable him to forget that he’s gay. “And what I hope is interesting to readers,” says the author, “is that no one is forcing the procedure on Aaron—it’s very much his own choice.”
Though Silvera says that he contemplated trying various genres when he tackled his first novel, he decided to forego dystopian and high-action options in favor of what he calls “a less commercial, more genuine story. I wanted my novel to be more self-contained, and to in some ways reflect my own personal coming-out as a teenager. This is a very personal novel to me, and though I have other books in the works, they feel a bit more distant. When I’m asked years from now what is my favorite book I’ve written, I can easily foresee answering that it is this one.”
Now 24, Silvera notes that his love of literature deepened during his tenure as a Manhattan bookseller, first at Barnes & Noble and then at Books of Wonder. “I feel as though I’ve been working toward this moment since I was 19,” he says of More Happy Than Not’s imminent release.
For those interested in exploring Manhattan beyond the Javits floor, here is Silvera’s annotated listing of his favorite literary hangouts.
Books of Wonder: “My absolute favorite children’s bookstore in the universe. This bookstore has been around for over 30 years and you must make it a point to visit or return to this indie to view, and maybe even buy, some of their Old & Rare collection, which includes a galley of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, and to buy some signed new releases.” (18 W. 18th St., between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, 212-989-3270)
McNally Jackson: “Whereas Books of Wonder excels with children’s literature, McNally Jackson is where I go for my adult new releases, and no, it has nothing to do with the fact that Taylor Swift shops there, too. The store has two floors of art books, fiction, nonfiction, children’s, and more, and their funny Twitter account (@McNallyJackson) keeps me up-to-date on new releases, events, and literary miscellany.” (52 Prince St., between Lafayette and Mulberry Streets, 212-274-1160)
Housing Works Bookstore Cafe: “This location doubles as both a bookstore and cafe, where you can buy some music and a new novel, or write your own over a cup of coffee. All of their profits go toward Housing Works, an organization fighting to end AIDS. The store even sells ARCs for anyone looking to acquire even more galleys during BEA week.” (126 Crosby St., between Houston and Prince Streets, 212-334-3324)
Alice’s Tea Cup: “Skip the pizza trip” this time around and head straight to New York City’s most whimsical tea house. They serve Wonderland waffles, Alice’s Mad Morning Tea, Alice’s Curious French Toast, and sorbets. They even have merchandise in case you’re looking to buy an Alice-themed gift for someone back home. “Pizzerias are open super late, so you can grab a slice in the evening to enjoy with your new favorite galley.” (102 W. 73rd St., between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues, 212-734-4832)
The Strand: “The Strand prides itself for its ‘18 miles of books,’ and they are not kidding—that store goes on for da-a-a-a-ys. There are carts outside with dollar books, all sorts of fun merchandise inside, and an extensive selection of reduced priced books. If you’re looking to buy a $30 hardcover for $20, the Strand is your new best friend.” (828 Broadway, at East 12th Street, 212-473-1452)
Alice in Wonderland Statue: “This is more for your Instagram than your bookshelves, but when you’re in Central Park (you are planning on strolling in the park, right?), you must go to the Alice statue and get some photos with a gigantic Alice, Mad Hatter, and White Rabbit; no filters necessary for this one. Pair this trip with Alice’s Tea Cup if you’re feeling extra zany.” (Enter Central Park near East 76th and walk south toward East 75th Street.)
Hans Christian Andersen Monument: “Don’t turn off your phone cameras just yet. While in Central Park [near Alice], you should also cozy up with another children’s book legend, Hans Christian Andersen, the guy who gave us so many awesome fairy tales, including The Ugly Duckling. In fact, there’s also a smaller statue of a duck looking up at Hans—and it’s amazing.” (Walk south from the Alice statue to the west of Conservatory Water, aka the Model Boat Pond.)
This article appeared in the May 27, 2015 edition of PW BEA Show Daily.
