The War Between the Tates By Alison Lurie

Set in the turbulent 1960s, The War Between the Tates is a sharp, satirical novel that explores marriage, academia, and the shifting cultural landscape of America. Erica and Brian Tate appear to have the perfect life: a comfortable home, two children, and a respected position in an Ivy League university. However, their marriage begins to unravel when Brian, a professor, embarks on an affair with one of his much younger students. As Erica struggles with betrayal, feminism, and personal identity, Alison Lurie paints a humorous yet poignant portrait of mid-life crises, gender roles, and the generational tensions of the era.

Why Read This Book:

• A Brilliant Academic Satire: Offers a keenly observed, often humorous take on life in academia.

• Sharp Feminist Themes: Explores gender expectations and the role of women in the 1960s.

• Engaging and Witty Prose: Lurie's writing is both intelligent and entertaining.

• Relatable Exploration of Marriage and Infidelity: A timeless look at love, power, and personal growth.

• Historical and Cultural Insight: Captures the political and social upheavals of the era.

About the Author

Alison Lurie (1926–2020) was an acclaimed American novelist known for her witty and insightful explorations of human relationships, academia, and cultural change. She won the Pulitzer Prize for Foreign Affairs and was celebrated for her ability to blend humor with deep social critique.