The Book Review Podcast: Book Club Episode Summary

Episode: Book Club: Let's Talk About 'The Catch,' by Yrsa Daley-Ward
Release Date: July 25, 2025
Host: Gilbert Cruz
Guests: MJ Franklin, Jen Harlan, Sadie Stein
Title: The Book Review by The New York Times

Introduction

In this episode of The Book Review Podcast, hosted by Gilbert Cruz, the New York Times Book Review team delves into their monthly book club selection: The Catch by Yrsa Daley-Ward. Hosted by MJ Franklin, the discussion features fellow editors Jen Harlan and Sadie Stein, who explore the intricacies of this multifaceted psychological thriller.

Book Synopsis

MJ Franklin opens the discussion by describing The Catch as a "psychological thriller, a grief novel, a tale of sisterhood," among other genres. She emphasizes the book’s complexity, highlighting its experimental and metafictional elements that challenge readers' perceptions.

Sadie Stein provides a detailed synopsis: The Catch follows twin sisters Clara and Dempsey Dempsey in their 30s, living in London. Clara is a successful novelist and influencer, while Dempsey leads a more isolated life working in data entry. The plot thickens when Clara believes she has spotted their long-missing mother, Serene, leading to a series of enigmatic events that intertwine reality and illusion.

Jen Harlan adds depth to the synopsis by explaining Serene's intrusive role in Clara's life, stating, "she becomes Clara's manager, essentially, she becomes her stylist, she becomes her roommate, and she begins to take control of every part of her life" (05:15).

Initial Reactions and Reading Experience

MJ Franklin shares her personal experience, describing the book as "both hypnotic and challenging" and commending its ambition and innovative storytelling. She notes the complexity of the protagonists, portraying them as "compelling but unlikable," which sets the stage for rich discussion.

Jen Harlan praises the book club choice, particularly appreciating the use of unreliable narrators. She mentions, "there are not one, not two, but three unreliable narrators lying to themselves" (09:23), which adds layers of ambiguity and intrigue to the narrative.

Sadie Stein echoes similar sentiments, highlighting the book’s ability to keep readers engaged despite its disorienting and wild twists. She describes the book as "a puzzle box," constantly revealing new layers that keep her invested until the very end.

Reader Comments and Community Insights

MJ Franklin shares insightful reader comments from the New York Times community:

• Simon from Durham and Tokyo calls the book "unforgettable" and compares its impact to "a river in flood, smashing through the levees of social and literary convention."

• Jillian from Colorado appreciates the book’s entertainment value but admits to getting "lost in the soup of the non-linear narrative."

• Jeanne from Rockford, Michigan connects deeply with the book’s exploration of grief, stating, "the experience of grief and how it can change you and your relationships" (16:00).

• Kylie from Dallas resonates with themes of identity and motherhood, noting, "the realness of character experiences that I could relate to being a biracial and transracial adoptee" (16:00).

Exploration of Themes

The discussion shifts to the prominent themes in The Catch:

1. Beauty and Self-Perception:

   • Sadie Stein points out the sisters' disconnection from their physical bodies, with Clara undergoing cosmetic procedures and both sisters displaying body dysmorphia.
   • MJ Franklin adds that the book intertwines dysmorphia with dissociation, particularly in the context of grief.

2. Grief and Mental Illness:

   • The novel delves into the complexities of grief, manifesting in the sisters' strained relationship and their struggle to connect with each other.
   • Jen Harlan highlights Clara's diagnosis with borderline personality disorder, adding another layer to her unreliable narration (32:21).

3. Sibling Relationships:

   • The bond between the twin sisters is portrayed as both toxic and deeply loving. Sadie Stein shares her favorite line from the book: "I love her, but I hate her" (21:56), encapsulating the complicated dynamics typical of sibling relationships.

4. Metafiction and Storytelling:

   • The book employs metafictional techniques, with Clara writing a novel within the novel that mirrors her and her sister’s lives. This creates a blurred line between fiction and reality, enhancing the psychological thriller aspect.

Major Plot Twists and Spoilers

MJ Franklin provides a spoiler-filled recap of the latter half of the book, revealing that Serene is a ghost influencing the sisters' lives. The twist involves time loop paradoxes where the sisters must prevent a meeting that could erase their existence, culminating in multiple possible endings.

Jen Harlan finds the twist satisfying as it ties together various plot elements and themes, mentioning, "it explained a few things" (28:30).

Sadie Stein expresses mixed feelings about the abruptness of the twist but appreciates the book’s ability to keep readers guessing until the end.

Thematic Implications of the Twist

The twist not only serves as a pivotal plot device but also deepens the novel's exploration of grief and storytelling. MJ Franklin interprets the multiple endings as an embodiment of the uncertainty and complexity of processing loss, aligning with Daley-Ward's own experiences with grief.

Jen Harlan suggests that the list of possible endings reflects the author's experimentation with narrative forms, indicating a meta-commentary on the nature of storytelling itself (33:45).

Character Development and Side Characters

Sadie Stein brings attention to the side characters, particularly Dr. Raina Pinelli, the grifter therapist who manipulates Dempsey. She discusses how these characters represent various forms of exploitation and betrayal, adding depth to the novel’s critique of trust and authority.

MJ Franklin connects these character dynamics to the overarching theme of the sisters being perpetually hurt and taken advantage of, emphasizing the tragic elements of their journey towards mutual support (42:20).

Recommendations and Pairing Books

In the final segment, the hosts recommend books that complement the themes and styles of The Catch:

1. Other Black Girl by Zakiya Delilah Harris

   • Explores workplace dynamics and mysterious twists in a publishing house setting.

2. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

   • A gothic novel with psychological depth and supernatural elements.

3. Grief is the Thing with Feathers by Max Porter

   • An innovative exploration of grief through narrative poetry and metaphor.

4. The Furrows by Namwali Serpell

   • A novel intertwining multiple narratives and versions of events to depict grief and loss.

5. Dead in Long Beach, California by Vanita Blackburn

   • Combines science fiction with personal tragedy, exploring identity and loss.

6. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

   • Delves into themes of identity, race, and family dynamics.

7. Dead in Long Beach, California by Vanita Blackburn

   • A crime thriller with experimental narrative techniques.

Conclusion

MJ Franklin wraps up the episode by announcing the August book club selection: Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaughey, promising another engaging and twist-filled narrative. The hosts express their enthusiasm for ongoing discussions and invite listeners to continue the conversation online.

Jen Harlan and Sadie Stein thank the listeners and fellow editors for their insights, emphasizing the enriching experience of dissecting a complex novel like The Catch together.

Final Quote: "The thing about destiny. She comes and it comes and we come around." (43:49) – MJ Franklin

This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of The Catch, unpacking its layered narrative, complex characters, and profound themes. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers, metafiction, or deep character studies, the Book Review Podcast provides a thoughtful and engaging analysis to enhance your reading experience.

Timestamps:

• 05:15 – Jen Harlan on Serene's role
• 09:23 – Discussion on unreliable narrators
• 16:00 – Reader comments on grief and identity
• 21:56 – Favorite line: "I love her, but I hate her"
• 28:30 – Jen Harlan on the twist's satisfaction
• 33:45 – Metafictional elements and multiple endings
• 42:20 – Character dynamics and exploitation
• 43:49 – Final quote by MJ Franklin

Note: All timestamps correspond to the podcast transcript provided and serve as reference points for notable discussions and quotes.