Readers who appreciate Anna Quindlen's way with female characters and their relationships will equally enjoy Elizabeth Berg, who depicts women with compassion and eloquence, in "The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted: and other small acts of liberation". Though her novels are excellent choices, this compelling anthology of short fiction features 11 never-before-published pieces that explore the lives of ordinary, relatable women. The title story, about a woman who ditches her diet and binges with pleasure for a day, is just one of many true-to-life situations that Berg addresses. Bored with your routine? These stories "highlight the bright sparks in everyday experience," says Kirkus Reviews.