The novel “Arthur Mervyn” by Charles Brockden Brown is set in late 18th-century Philadelphia during a yellow fever epidemic. It follows Arthur, a young man from the countryside, as he moves to the city, seeking a better life.
The story weaves through his encounters with illness, betrayal, and questionable choices, showing the challenges of urban life in a time of crisis.
The novel “Expiration Date” by Duane Swierczynski follows Mickey Wade, a down-on-his-luck journalist who moves into his grandfather’s apartment in Philadelphia. After taking unfamiliar migraine pills he finds in the medicine cabinet, he starts traveling back to the city’s past.
Mickey discovers troubling connections to his own family history and uncovers a dangerous secret that ties to the city’s darker side. The time-jumping aspect sets the story against both modern-day and older Philadelphia, creating a unique sense of place.
The book “Good In Bed” by Jennifer Weiner tells the story of Cannie Shapiro, a smart and funny journalist who faces some unexpected changes after her ex-boyfriend writes about their relationship in a national magazine.
As Cannie navigates heartbreak, family struggles, and personal growth, she discovers her own strength and learns what truly matters to her.
“Kitty Foyle” by Christopher Morley tells the story of a working-class Irish American woman in Philadelphia. Kitty navigates love, societal expectations, and personal ambition.
The novel follows her relationship with the wealthy and charming Wyn Strafford, which is tested by their differing social backgrounds. Through her story, the book paints a vivid picture of life in the city during the early 20th century.
“Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid is about a young Black woman named Emira who works as a babysitter for a wealthy white family in Philadelphia. One night, she is accused of kidnapping the child she is caring for while at a grocery store.
This sets off a chain of events that examines race, privilege, and the complicated dynamics between Emira, her employer, and others in her life.
The novel “Birdy” by William Wharton is about the friendship between two boys, Birdy and Al, who grow up in Philadelphia. Birdy becomes obsessed with birds and dreams of living as one, while Al is more grounded.
The story follows their lives and how they cope with trauma after serving in World War II. Through conversations at a military hospital, it reveals the deep bond between the two and Birdy’s escape into his own world.
The book “Deadly Assets” by W.E.B. Griffin and William E. Butterworth IV follows the complex world of the Philadelphia Police Department.
A new directive pushes the department to focus on community relations, but this shift strains resources as violent crime surges across the city.
Detectives Payne and Bennett must navigate political pressures while chasing dangerous criminals, creating a tension-filled battle between public relations efforts and actual police work.
Alice Sebold’s “The Lovely Bones” tells the story of Susie Salmon, a teenage girl who is murdered and watches from the afterlife as her family and friends struggle to move on.
Set in 1970s suburban Philadelphia, the book follows how her death impacts those she left behind while Susie reflects on her own unfulfilled life. Her murderer still lives nearby, adding a tense and haunting layer to the story.
The novel “The School for Good Mothers” by Jessamine Chan follows Frida Liu, a mother who makes a mistake that leads to her being sent to a government-run institution where parents are retrained to meet strict standards.
In this near-future setting, the state monitors mothers’ every move, questioning their ability to parent. The book explores Frida’s struggles and the harsh choices she faces in a system that feels cold and unrelenting.
Francis Stevens wrote “The Heads of Cerberus,” a novel about three people who accidentally travel to a dystopian future version of Philadelphia after coming into contact with a mysterious gray powder.
In this alternate world, the city is ruled by a totalitarian government with strict social control, making life harsh and bleak. The story follows their efforts to survive and find a way back to their own time.
The book “Oreo” by Fran Ross tells the story of a young woman named Christine, nicknamed Oreo, who embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her mixed-race heritage and find her father.
Set partly in Philadelphia, the novel blends humor with sharp commentary as Oreo navigates her quest, using her wit and resourcefulness. The story draws on elements of myth and legend, weaving them into an urban setting.
“Plum Bun” by Jessie Redmon Fauset tells the story of Angela Murray, a young Black woman in 1920s Philadelphia who decides to pass as white to escape the racial limitations of her life.
After the death of her parents, she moves to New York, leaving behind her family and identity, hoping for the freedom and opportunities she believes will come with her new life. The book explores how her choices shape her relationships, ambitions, and sense of self.
“Two Cities” by John Edgar Wideman is about two people brought together by love in the midst of loss and grief. Set in Philadelphia, it explores the challenges they face as they try to build a connection.
The story captures the struggles of urban life, touching on themes like community, memory, and healing. The city itself plays a key role, with its gritty streets and history framing the characters’ journey.
Marguerite de Angeli wrote “Bright April,” a touching story about a young African American girl named April who lives in Philadelphia. April is part of a Brownie Troop and deals with the challenges of prejudice while also finding moments of joy with her friends and family.
Set against the backdrop of 1940s Philadelphia, this book brings a heartfelt look at April’s everyday life, celebrating her courage and kindness.
The novel “Losing Absalom” by Alexs Pate tells the story of a man named Absalom Goode, who is dying and surrounded by his family in Philadelphia. Through their struggles and memories, the book explores the complexities of family bonds, identity, and legacy.
The backdrop of the city adds a vivid sense of place as each character confronts their past and the weight of Absalom’s life.