May 14, 2012

Contact: Anna Christopher, NPR

NPR BOOKS OFFERS EXCLUSIVE FIRST READ OF AUTHOR
GILLIAN FLYNN'S THRILLER "GONE GIRL"

THREE CHAPTER EXCERPT AND ACCOMPANYING AUDIO
AVAILABLE NOW AT NPRBOOKS.ORG

NPR Books brings readers an exclusive sneak peak at the forthcoming thriller Gone Girl from bestselling author Gillian Flynn, as part of its new "First Reads" series. Beginning today, readers can enjoy the first three chapters of Gone Girl, reading or listening online a full month before its June release, at nprbooks.org. "First Reads" from NPR Books offers an exclusive look at an as yet-unreleased book; the series launched last month with a preview of The Beginner's Goodbye from Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anne Tyler.

"It's a book full of dark twists and turns, with a sharply original voice and a wicked sense of humor," said Ellen Silva, senior editor for Ideas, Books and Opinion. "We feel it's a game-changing book for Gillian Flynn - none of us could put it down."

Gone Girl (Crown, June 2012) follows the story of a wedding anniversary turned police investigation, leaving a suspicious husband to answer for his missing wife. Marked with chilling twists and confounding turns, Gone Girl promises the characteristic sharp writing and compelling storylines of Flynn's award-winning debut Sharp Objects and sophomore effort Dark Places, which have earned her a place as one of the most acclaimed suspense writers today.

NPR Books is specifically designed to help a busy audience find great reads. The site combines the best of NPR's interviews and news with original web reviews, recommendations and lists. It includes popular recurring series such as "You Must Read This," in which well-known authors make one, passionate recommendation; the "NPR Bestseller Lists," based on weekly surveys of 500 independent bookstores nationwide; "My Guilty Pleasure," which reveals the books notable writers love but are embarrassed to be seen reading; and "Three Books," in which authors recommend three books on a theme. Ahead of Memorial Day weekend, the themed "Summer Books" package will be unveiled, featuring recommendations from NPR journalists and contributors, and well-known authors.