Picture a Southern storyteller who spun a heartwarming family saga from a Manhattan fire escape—meet Cat Shook! This rising star in contemporary fiction has charmed readers with her witty, relatable tales of love, loss, and family chaos. Her debut novel, If We’re Being Honest, a Good Morning America Buzz Pick, and her follow-up, Humor Me, showcase a knack for blending humor with emotional depth, making her a fresh voice in women’s fiction.
Born and raised in Georgia, Shook’s Southern roots infuse her stories with warmth and authenticity. Now calling Brooklyn home, she crafts narratives that feel like catching up with old friends—messy, heartfelt, and impossible to put down.
The Making of Cat Shook
Cat Shook’s journey to authorship began in Atlanta, where her love for storytelling took root early. She graduated from the University of Georgia in 2016 with degrees in Creative Writing and Mass Media Arts, honing a sharp eye for character and dialogue. After moving to New York, she dove into the publishing world, working at a literary agency and later as a development manager at SISTER, a studio amplifying visionary storytellers. The 2020 pandemic lockdown sparked a turning point: perched on her fire escape with an iPad, Shook poured her heart into her debut novel, finding solace in her characters during a lonely time.
Cat Shook’s Unforgettable Stories
Shook’s debut, If We’re Being Honest (2023), is a vibrant Southern family drama set in Eulalia, Georgia. When the Williams family gathers for their patriarch’s funeral, a shocking eulogy unravels their world, sparking soul-searching and hilarious chaos. Critics liken it to works by Tracey Lange and Emma Straub for its snappy dialogue and emotional heft, earning it a GMA Buzz Pick nod. Shook’s ability to juggle a large cast—each with distinct quirks—creates a tapestry of relatable struggles and triumphs.
Her second novel, Humor Me (2024), shifts to Manhattan, following Presley Fry, a late-night show assistant navigating friendship, love, and stand-up comedy. With a nod to Curtis Sittenfeld’s wit, Shook blends humor and heart, exploring how laughter heals. Her style—conversational, character-driven, and steeped in universal themes—makes her stories resonate, whether set in a small Georgia town or a bustling city.
Shook’s writing shines through her “pantser” approach, letting characters guide the story organically. Her Southern upbringing informs her keen sense of place, while her New York life adds a modern edge, creating a unique voice that bridges cozy familiarity with sharp insight.
Why Cat Shook Matters
Cat Shook’s impact lies in her ability to capture the messiness of human connection. Her stories resonate with readers craving authentic, character-driven narratives that balance humor with vulnerability. By tackling themes like grief, identity, and second chances, she invites readers to reflect on their own relationships. Her rise from a literary agency assistant to a celebrated author inspires aspiring writers, proving that persistence and a good story can break through. As Shook continues to write, her growing fanbase eagerly awaits her next tale of heart and humor.
- Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia
- Key Works: If We’re Being Honest (2023), Humor Me (2024)
- Notable Recognition: Good Morning America Buzz Pick for If We’re Being Honest
- Fun Fact: Shook wrote her debut during the 2020 lockdown, inspired by characters “talking” in her head.
Snag If We’re Being Honest or Humor Me and dive into Cat Shook’s delightful blend of wit and warmth—your next favorite read awaits!