In an exclusive interview, author Jenny Mollen shares her thoughts on social media’s impact on motherhood and her new novel, City of Likes, with Home Insemination Kit. Mollen, a New York Times best-selling writer, spent years seeking a publisher for her debut satirical novel that critiques the bizarre and often dark realm of mom influencers. “Back in 2019, I don’t think we were ready to confront our addiction to social media,” Mollen, 43, explains over a video call. “But after going through the pandemic, it became undeniable. Everyone had to face how attached we are to our phones and our craving for validation.”
Mollen, known for her previous works like I Like You Just the Way I Am and Live Fast Die Hot, was initially disappointed when publishers showed little interest in her fictional exploration of social media’s effects. With the unwavering support of her husband, actor Jason Biggs, she persevered and eventually found a home for her book with The Nacelle Company.
About City of Likes
City of Likes tells the story of Megan Chernoff, an unemployed copywriter grappling with her identity after the birth of her second child. In search of renewal, she relocates her family to New York City, where she encounters the glamorous mom influencer Daphne Cole. As Megan becomes entangled in the superficialities of the influencer lifestyle, her personal life begins to deteriorate, leading her to confront the hollowness of online success. “The book is very much a reflection of my own experiences and insecurities,” Mollen admits.
Despite her awareness of her social media dependency, Mollen managed to keep it hidden from her children until the pandemic forced everyone into quarantine. “Before the pandemic, it was like I was sneaking cigarettes,” she confesses. “Then during lockdown, it felt as if I was revealing my true self in a startling way.”
Adaptation and Influences
This need for external affirmation spurred Mollen to pen City of Likes, which is already being adapted into a TV series with the help of executive producer Diablo Cody. Mollen discusses her past struggles with toxic relationships, which influenced the dynamics between characters in her book. “The emotional connection between Megan and Daphne mirrors my own experiences with unhealthy friendships,” she explains.
As she navigates the world of social media, Mollen acknowledges its duality. “While I critique Instagram, I also rely on it for my work,” she states. “It’s a bizarre contradiction.” Mollen hopes readers of City of Likes will recognize the dangers of prioritizing online personas over genuine experiences. She emphasizes, “Choose the real life in front of you instead of the one on your screen. Those moments with your kids are irreplaceable.”
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In summary, Jenny Mollen’s City of Likes dives deep into the complexities of motherhood and social media, revealing the often-hidden struggles that come with the pursuit of online validation. Through her satirical lens, Mollen invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and the importance of embracing real-life moments with loved ones.