Former lawyer’s background shapes debut novel

Brooklyn Author Helen Wan to Speak in Cobble Hill

September 4, 2014 Brooklyn Daily Eagle

Brooklyn author Helen Wan will speak at BookCourt in Cobble Hill on Sept. 5.

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Brooklyn-based novelist Helen Wan’s debut, “The Partner Track,” now available in trade paperback, traces the story of Ingrid Yung, who is about to become partner at Parsons Valentine, a prestigious New York City law firm.

While “The Partner Track” is a work of fiction, much of the author’s own experience helped shaped the story’s trajectory. Wan was a corporate and media lawyer for many years before turning to writing full time.

Wan will appear at BookCourt in Cobble Hill on Sept. 5 to discuss her book, alongside writers Jason Dubow, Brittany K. Allen and Jeff Lennon, as part of the Brooklyn Writers Space reading series.

For years, Wan’s protagonist, Ingrid, has worked to blend in to the corporate culture of the “old boys network” that is in place. Suddenly, an offensive incident at the firm’s summer outing throws off the equilibrium. Ingrid is forced to take charge of a new Diversity initiative while simultaneously closing an important transaction that will secure her partnership.

For the first time, Ingrid must choose between her ethics and the prestige of partnership.

The Sept. 5 event will begin at 7 p.m. BookCourt is located at 163 Court St. in Cobble Hill.