Amy Koppelman

Amy Koppelman is an American novelist and screenwriter whose work focuses on complex female protagonists dealing with depression, motherhood, and identity. Her novels include A Mouthful of Air (2003), I Smile Back (2008), and Hesitation Wounds (2015). Koppelman gained wider recognition when her novel I Smile Back was adapted into a 2015 film starring Sarah Silverman. She co-wrote the screenplay for the adaptation, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and earned Silverman widespread critical acclaim for her dramatic performance. Her debut novel A Mouthful of Air was also adapted to film in 2021, which Koppelman directed herself. The film starred Amanda Seyfried and dealt with themes of postpartum depression and maternal mental health. Koppelman's writing consistently explores psychological struggles and the darker aspects of domestic life. Throughout her career, Koppelman has been noted for her unflinching portrayal of mental illness, particularly depression and its impact on family dynamics. Her work has been published in several languages and has received coverage in major publications including The New York Times and The Washington Post.

Readers appreciate Koppelman's raw, unflinching portrayal of depression, motherhood, and women's mental health struggles. Many reviews note her ability to capture dark emotional states with authenticity. Her novel "A Mouthful of Air" resonates with readers who have experienced postpartum depression, with several calling it the most accurate depiction they've encountered. Her prose style receives praise for its spare, poetic quality. Common criticisms include pacing issues, particularly in "I Smile Back," which some readers found slow-moving. A portion of reviews mention the books being emotionally draining or difficult to engage with due to heavy subject matter. Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: - I Smile Back: 3.4/5 (2,100+ ratings) - A Mouthful of Air: 3.7/5 (900+ ratings) - Hesitation Wounds: 3.6/5 (300+ ratings) Amazon: - I Smile Back: 4.1/5 - A Mouthful of Air: 4.3/5 - Hesitation Wounds: 4.2/5

A Mouthful of Air (2003) The story of Julie Davis, a children's book author and new mother in New York City who struggles with severe postpartum depression and suicidal thoughts.

I Smile Back (2008) A suburban housewife named Laney Brooks battles addiction and mental illness while trying to maintain her family life.

Hesitation Wounds (2015) Dr. Susanna Seliger, a psychiatrist specializing in treatment-resistant depression, confronts her own past trauma while treating a suicidal patient.