How to Raise an Art Star

By: Ara Tucker

Narrated by: Amy Gordon

A sharply observed, emotionally exacting novel about an unconventional family, creative ambition, and the girl growing up at the center of the art world’s spotlight.

When a freak accident claims the lives of her first mothers, Vabeh—a bi-racial, precocious tween—moves to New York to live with Devon and Morgan Gregson Bennett, a couple whose identities and ambitions were never built with parenthood in mind. Devon, an artist fighting to stay visible, must protect a child whose presence attracts both warmth and scrutiny. Morgan, a strategist and writer, finds her carefully ordered life reshaped by the story unfolding at home.

As Vabeh navigates schoolyards, art studios, and the sharply lit rooms of collectors and gatekeepers, she becomes the witness—and unexpected catalyst—for the adults orbiting her.

With wit, tenderness, and a clear-eyed look at the art world’s seductions and distortions, How to Raise an Art Star explores what it means to raise—and to be—an artist when work, love, and identity collide.

Perfect for listeners who love:

• Contemporary literary fiction

• Art, ambition, and creative life stories

• Queer family-making and unconventional motherhood

• Sharp social observation with emotional depth

Performed by Amy Gordon, whose warm, nuanced narration brings depth to each character’s voice.

©2022 Ara Tucker (P)2025 Ara Tucker

Enjoyed it!

Witty and insightful look at family and art world politics. Can’t wait for the next Bennett family take.

Jonathan Swift, move over!

What an original and witty send-up of the art world. The carefully drawn details make the characters and situations completely real. Brilliant concept for kids to mirror this specific cultural milieu and its machinations. High art satire!