Author Rachel Valencourt

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Hey there, lovely readers,

Yesterday was a pretty big deal at our place—my daughter officially wrapped up 8th grade! To celebrate, we did what any cool family would do: we watched “Dazed and Confused.” There’s just something about that movie that perfectly captures the coming-of- age spirit of the 70s. It got me thinking about other fantastic books and movies set in these iconic decades.

As we celebrated my daughter’s milestone, it struck me how powerful stories are in transporting us to different times and places. Whether it’s the nostalgia of the ’70s or timeless themes of growing up and finding oneself, these stories resonate deeply.

So, let’s take a trip back in time, without needing a DeLorean. Here are some of my favorite ’70s stories that will make you feel like you’ve got one foot in the past. And, if you’re like me, a sucker for a good trope, you’ll find plenty of nostalgia, coming-of-age, love triangles, and more in these tales.

Books

Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This novel reads like the true story of a ’70s rock band, but it’s entirely fictional. The interview format makes it feel incredibly real, and you’ll find yourself wishing you could hear their greatest hits on the radio. It’s got all the drama, love triangles, and rock ‘n’ roll dreams you could ask for.

Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau
Set in 1970s Baltimore, this coming-of-age novel follows fourteen-year-old Mary Jane as she takes a summer nanny job. It’s a heartwarming, nostalgic trip through a world of rock ‘n’ roll and self-discovery that feels both familiar and fresh. Expect plenty of family secrets and personal growth.

Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
Though it spans multiple decades, it kicks off in the ’70s with the story of an unforgettable friendship. It’s a beautiful, emotional journey through the highs and lows of life, capturing the essence of each era it touches. Friendship, heartbreak, and everything in between make this a standout.

Twilight’s Hidden Truth by Rachel Valencourt
Of course, I have to mention my own book! Set in the ’70s and ’80s, it follows Twyla Cameron through a whirlwind of family drama, biker gang tensions, and personal growth. It’s a wild ride filled with passion, transformation, and those good old-fashioned tropes we love, like coming of age and forbidden love.

Movies

Dazed and Confused
Richard Linklater’s masterpiece drops you right into the last day of high school in 1976. The soundtrack alone is a blast from the past, and the characters are so relatable, you’ll swear you went to school with them. It’s got that perfect mix of nostalgia and coming-of-age chaos.

Almost Famous
Cameron Crowe’s semi-autobiographical film is a love letter to the early ’70s rock scene. Following a teenage journalist on tour with a band, it’s a journey of discovery and rock ‘n’ roll dreams. Plus, the music will make you want to dust off those old vinyl records. Expect plenty of backstage drama and personal revelations.

Now it’s your turn! What are your favorite books and movies set in the late ’60s and ’70s? Share your picks in the comments below, and let’s chat about them!

Until next time,

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