Skip to Main Content

Starting from Happy

A Novel

About The Book

“A poignant portrait of a long-term relationship, with all the disappointments and occasional triumphs that entails. A funny, sad and original take on the mating game” (Kirkus Reviews).

While waiting in line for apple pie at a party, Imogene Gilfeather, a lingerie designer who does not understand the reason for romance, meets Wally Yez, a scientist. Imogene is told that Wally is the perfect guy. (“Perfect,” she replies, “is not my type.”) Unfazed by Imogene’s indifference, Wally resolves to win her over. E-mails turn into late-night phone calls; one date turns into two and then more.

Wally is certain he and Imogene are meant for each other. (They both use mechanical pencils! Neither has had mumps!) But convincing his beloved is another matter. In defiance of the odds, or the gods, or perhaps just Imogene’s qualms, Wally and Imogene become a pair. Will Imogene indulge Wally’s longing for children? Can they possibly end as happily as they’ve begun?

Starting from Happy is a winning and sophisticated look at a rather zany couple as they come of age, and then just age—by one of the finest comic writers of our time.

About The Author

Photographed by Robert Adam Mayer at The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York

Patricia Marx, a television screenwriter for shows such as Saturday Night Live, is the author of How to Regain Your Virginity and Meet My Staff.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Scribner (March 13, 2012)
  • Length: 256 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781439101292

Browse Related Books

Resources and Downloads

High Resolution Images

  • Author Photo (jpg): Patricia Marx
    Photographed by Robert Adam Mayer at The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York
    (4.9 MB)

    Any use of an author photo must include its respective photo credit

More books from this author: Patricia Marx