Reese Witherspoon Unveils Medical World Novel, Shares Aspiration to Be Surgeon
Reese Witherspoon has embarked on a new chapter as an author, launching her book tour for her debut novel, Gone Before Goodbye. The novel features protagonist Maggie McCabe, an Army combat surgeon entangled in a world of Russian billionaires and private healthcare.
Witherspoon’s Writing Journey
The book tour commenced in Los Angeles, where Witherspoon appeared alongside co-writer Harlan Coben. At the two-day Shine Away summit organized by her media company Hello Sunshine, Witherspoon revealed that the story had been in development for two and a half years. Initially uncertain about writing a book, she sought Coben’s guidance after a previous encounter.
Witherspoon expressed her desire to take creative initiative, saying, “I thought, why don’t I be part of making the whole world?” She emphasized the importance of her involvement beyond merely playing roles in existing works.
Author Collaboration
Coben, a bestselling author known for his numerous titles, shared that both were anxious about teaming up. He reassured Witherspoon of their commitment to authentically create the narrative: “We are the only two people ever in the room.” This bond intensified their motivation to craft a compelling story, which incorporates themes of artificial intelligence and medicine.
Inspiration Behind Maggie McCabe
Maggie McCabe, the main character, is shaped by Witherspoon’s familial background. Her father was a doctor and her mother a nurse, both serving in the military. Witherspoon revealed that her formative years on a military base in Germany were filled with discussions on medical topics, fostering her initial aspiration to be a surgeon.
- Witherspoon highlighted the vital role of healthcare professionals, aiming to honor her parents’ contributions.
- She hopes the novel inspires young girls to pursue careers in medicine, similar to how Legally Blonde motivated future lawyers.
A Love Letter to Healthcare Professionals
Witherspoon intends for Gone Before Goodbye to serve as a tribute to her parents and the medical community. She shares, “This is really a love letter to my mom and dad.” Despite aiming for commercial success rather than critical acclaim, she emphasizes the importance of increasing medical school enrollment among women.
Shine Away Event Highlights
The third annual Shine Away event occurred on the Universal Studios lot and featured notable figures including Mariska Hargitay, Chrissy Teigen, and Malin Åkerman. Attendees enjoyed enlightening conversations and performances like a comedy set from Yvonne Orji.
As Witherspoon charts her path as a novelist, she remains committed to inspiring future generations in the medical field through her storytelling.
