This might be the finest book I read during the 1980's. It is a collection of six interconnected short stories that Ms. Kenney calls a novel. The chapters examine the memories and perceptions invoked by different circumstances and times in the protagonist's life. They all center on her father's death at an early age and the concepts of desertion and trust. They examine her mother's madness and her husband's illness and how death does not necessarily end life. Real life may well exist in one's memories. This book is so good that I can recall it now, 24 years after I read it, almost as well as if I had just finished it. The book is that good.
a classic
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
I have read thousands of novels in my life and I think this must be one of the top five. Written with an intensity of feeling that is both painful but uplifting, this book says more about what matters in life than any other work with which I am acquainted. I have reread it half a dozen times and keep extra copies to give as gifts. It is easily obtainable through the internet and at used book stores. I promise you will be rewarded in inumerable ways if you seek out this work of sublime genius.
one of my favorite books
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
This book was very moving. It makes you laugh and cry at the same time. The main charactor is easy to empathize with and the writing is superb. I wish it wasn't out of print because it is such an enjoyable book.
Esp for anyone who has lost a parent when they were young,
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Knowing that I had lost my father in an accident when I was 8 my friend recommended the book to me. The author sadly really did lose her father when she was 12.I could identify with so much -- I felt the writing was excellent.I also really, really liked her book called "Sailing". It was constructed and written so very well. I wanted to see if the author has since written any more books and was sorry to see this book out of print.
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