I’ve recently been reading my way through several Meg Wolitzer novels, in anticipation of the new Glenn Close movie, The Wife, based on Wolitzer’s book about the marriage between a prize-winning author and his self-effacing wife. Since I love meaty family dramas and character-driven stories, my friend suggested that I also branch out on the Wolitzer family tree and read a title by Hilma Wolitzer, an award-winning writer, who also happens to be Meg’s mom.

Here are a few other famous mother-daughter literary pairs worth checking out. Writing talent clearly runs in the family for these women.

Jeanne Ray, a nurse, finally took up writing in her 60s at the urging of her daughter Ann Patchett, best-known for Commonwealth and Bel Canto.

Perennial best-seller Jodi Picoult actually teamed up with her daughter, Samantha Van Leer, to collaborate on two young adult novels: Between the Lines and Off the Page.

Mary Higgins Clark is the author of dozens of mystery novels. She’s also the mother of Carol Higgins Clark, who is also known for her fast-paced mysteries.

In 1792, Mary Wollstonecraft published A Vindication of the Rights of Woman. In 1797, she gave birth to Mary Shelley who went on to pen the sci-fi masterpiece Frankenstein (at the ripe old age of 20, no less). On October 27-28, we’ll be celebrating Frankenstein’s 200^th birthday with a Frankenfest of films, lectures, crafts, and more. Until then, I hope you enjoy this mother lode of reading suggestions.