Chick lit. My defense.

It’s no surprise that I love chick lit. In fact, that is what I would like to do as a career one day. Write. Many believe chick lit started with authors like Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters, but was not defined as a genre until Bridget Jones.

And it’s a genre not respected by everyone. Many women authors make it a point to say they do not write chick lit.

Chick lit has often been looked down upon for its clichéd characters, winding through the lives of modern women by telling their everyday problems and highs. The genre is more than women looking for love in a big city (in their stilettos). It’s about friendships, relationships, love (and the lack of), and encourages us to be proud of our unique concerns. Many books deal with body issues, heartbreak, and coping with a difficult loss.

Sure, there are some novels in this genre that have no more depth than a kiddie pool. It can often be formulaic and does contain stereotypes for both men and women. You could say the same for mystery novels or historical fiction. But no one seems to make the broad generalization for these genres.

You probably know Bridget Jones was a modern version of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

I think chick lit recognizes our unique generation of women—even if you have to look past the pastel covered hardback.

Chick lit novel I’m reading right now: Heart of the Matter by Emily Giffin.