Search

"The Other Side of Tomorrow" is a gripping graphic novel by Tina Cho, illustrated by Deb JJ Lee. Set in North Korea in 2013, the story follows two tweens, Yunho and Myunghee, as they navigate deprivation and starvation while trying to support their families. Yunho longs for his mother's return and a way out of his difficult circumstances, while Myunghee dreams of becoming a pop star. When their escape plans go wrong, they cross paths and form a bond. The novel balances horror and wonder, with vibrant illustrations that bring the story to life. A note on North Korean history is included. Recommended for ages 8-12. [Extracted from the article]

"The Night Mother (The Night Mother #1)" by Jeremy Lambert, illustrated by Alexa Sharpe, is a dark and atmospheric graphic novel fairy tale that combines ancient myth with modern anxieties. The story follows twelve-year-old Madeline Tock, who can hear the whispers of the dead, as she discovers the existence of the Night Mother, an otherworldly being who collects the souls of the dead during each full moon. When the Night Mother begins harvesting the spirits of the living, Madeline takes it upon herself to confront her. The evocative illustrations by Sharpe enhance the eerie narrative, while the exploration of family dynamics and personal demons adds depth to the thrilling adventure. The book ends with a cliffhanger, leaving readers eager for more. The characters in the story are depicted with varying skin tones. Recommended for ages 9 and up. [Extracted from the article]

"Love & Lattes" by Beth Reekles is a young adult romance novel that follows 19-year-old Annalise Sherwood as she begins an internship at a London-based electric vehicle manufacturer. Despite her initial skepticism about love, Annalise meets Lloyd, the CEO's son, and they quickly form a connection. However, Annalise is determined to focus on her career and refuses to date him. As they spend more time together, Annalise must confront her feelings and priorities. The novel also explores themes of family dynamics and the pressures of parental expectations. Overall, "Love & Lattes" is a satisfying and predictable romance with deeper examinations of the characters' motivations. Suitable for readers aged 12 and up. [Extracted from the article]

"Intervals" by Marianne Brooker is a powerful and thought-provoking memoir that explores the author's mother's journey with primary progressive multiple sclerosis and end-of-life care. Brooker examines her mother's experiences with various coping methods and sheds light on the impact of funding cuts on low-income patients. The book challenges societal perceptions of death and dying, offering a unique blend of personal narrative and cultural critique. Brooker's writing is precise and morally insightful, making this memoir a compelling read for those interested in the topic. [Extracted from the article]

Kieran Scott's novel "People Will Talk" takes readers into the world of Peter Frank, a 34-year-old playboy who finds himself in a whirlwind of drama after an impromptu wedding to family friend Tilly Danforth at his mother's annual clambake. When Tilly is found dead, Catherine Farr, Peter's high school ex and amateur sleuth, begins to investigate. As Catherine, Maya Romero (Peter's girlfriend), and Leanne Gladstone (the aunt of Peter's son) work together to clear their names, they uncover a web of jealousy and betrayal. With a fast-paced plot and a focus on the characters' personal lives, this book is perfect for a relaxing day by the pool. [Extracted from the article]

"Daughters of Olympus" by Hannah Lynn is a retelling of the myth of Demeter and Persephone, focusing on the theme of a mother's loss. After being raped by her brother Zeus, Demeter gives birth to twins Core and Iacchus. When Zeus kills Demeter's mortal lover, Iaison, she takes Core to Earth, where she is eventually abducted by Hades. The author skillfully portrays the divine characters as both powerful and vulnerable, highlighting Demeter's anguish and Core's despair. This unique feminist take on Greek mythology stands out from other similar works. [Extracted from the article]

"French Girl" is a graphic novel by Jesse Lee Kercheval that explores the author's family history through a series of introspective vignettes. The book delves into the author's childhood, which was affected by illness and her parents' wartime traumas. Kercheval's writing style combines introspection with fairy tale elements, and her pastel illustrations have a dreamlike quality. The book offers a unique and enchanting perspective on a specific family's lore. [Extracted from the article]

"The Innermost House: A Memoir" by Cynthia Blakeley is a heartrending debut that explores the author's Cape Cod childhood in the 1960s and her complex relationship with her parents. The memoir delves into the impact of her mother's arrest for adultery and her abusive first husband, as well as the financial struggles and coldness of her father. Blakeley vividly describes the natural beauty of eastern Massachusetts and reflects on moments of debauchery in Provincetown. She also bravely addresses the harrowing sexual abuse she experienced as a teenager. The memoir offers a poignant exploration of memory and the act of shaping one's past into narrative. [Extracted from the article]

In "Mothers and Sons: A Memoir," Greek novelist Theodor Kallifatides reflects on a weeklong visit with his elderly mother in Athens. The author returned from Sweden to write about his mother before her death, and their conversations covered topics such as her childhood, the family's migratory patterns, and ancestral secrets. Kallifatides beautifully examines his grief for his late father and contemplates the legacy he wants to leave for his own grandchildren. This slim but generous volume is a stunning tribute to both mother and motherland. [Extracted from the article]

"We Shall Be Monsters" by Alyssa Wees is an enchanting and eerie fantasy novel that combines fact and fairy tale. The story follows 14-year-old Gemma, who is drawn to the deep woods near her Michigan home despite her mother's attempts to scare her away. Gemma's mother, Virginia, was once drawn to the woods herself and was cursed by a witch, leading Gemma on a dangerous journey to save her mother and break the curse. The novel explores themes of defiance, protection, and the power of love, and is sure to captivate readers of atmospheric fantasy. [Extracted from the article]

"The Burrow" by Melanie Cheng is a poignant novel that explores the struggles of a Melbourne family as they try to move on from the death of their baby. In an attempt to bring some joy into their lives, the parents get their 10-year-old daughter a pet rabbit. However, when Amy's estranged mother, Pauline, arrives after breaking her wrist, the family's fragile harmony is disrupted. Through flashbacks, the author hints at the circumstances surrounding the baby's death, suggesting Pauline's involvement. As the Covid-19 pandemic keeps them confined to their home, each character's relationship with the rabbit becomes a source of healing. Ultimately, a crisis involving a break-in pushes them closer to recovery. Cheng skillfully portrays the impact of the tragedy on each family member, creating a moving and thought-provoking story. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a niche study by Antoine Compagnon, a comparative literature professor at Columbia University, on how Jewish readers in the 1920s and '30s responded to the works of French novelist Marcel Proust. Compagnon challenges the notion that Proust was a self-hating Jew, tracing this interpretation back to critic Siegfried van Praag. Compagnon also explores the reception of Proust's novel by French Zionists, who saw his Jewish characters as complex and multifaceted. However, the article notes that the book does not provide much insight into Proust's personal beliefs or serve as a comprehensive window into French Judaism during the interwar period. It is recommended primarily for scholars of French literature. [Extracted from the article]

"The Serpent and the Wolf" by Rebecca Robinson is a captivating debut romantasy novel that combines mysterious magic and a tense political marriage. Princess Vaasa Kozár inherits dark magic that caused her mother's death and is married off to a neighboring ruler by her ruthless brother. Unaware of her lack of consent, Reid Cazden, her new husband, offers her a deal to help tame her magic in exchange for staying married for three years. The slow-burn romance between Reid and Vaasa, along with their witty banter, takes center stage, and the nail-biting conclusion sets the stage for a potential sequel. [Extracted from the article]

"The Most Wonderful Time" by Jayne Allen is a contemporary fiction novel about two women who swap homes for the holidays. Chelsea, a struggling artist in Malibu, agrees to a home exchange to rekindle her artistic spark. Ramona, in Chicago, uses the home exchange as a way to buy herself more time before revealing her broken engagement. As the story unfolds, both women face challenges and find unexpected connections. The novel addresses racial issues and explores themes of love and commitment, but it may not evoke the traditional Christmas spirit. [Extracted from the article]

Joy Ladin's book "Family" is a collection of poignant poems that reflect on the author's experiences of loss. The poems explore the shifting relationship between Ladin and her mother, who suffers from dementia. Ladin also delves into her own personal losses, including illness, disability, and the loss of a job and home. In the final section of the book, Ladin examines her own white privilege and critiques a system that has remained hidden from view. The volume is a tender and powerful exploration of loss, transformed into lyrical expression. [Extracted from the article]

This article is a review of the book "Canoes" by Maylis de Kerangal, translated from French by Jessica Moore. The collection of stories explores themes of alienation and grief in pivotal moments of the characters' lives. Each story is complex and the recurring imagery of canoes adds depth to the themes of transience and the flow of memories. The book is described as powerful and impactful. [Extracted from the article]

"The Last Dragon of the East" by Katrina Kwan is a fantasy novel that incorporates Chinese legends about dragons and the red threads of fate. The story follows Sai, a young man who runs a struggling teahouse and possesses the ability to see the red threads that connect true lovers. When a doctor claims to have a cure for Sai's ailing mother made of dragon scales, Sai embarks on a quest to find the dragon. However, the execution of the story falls short due to uneven pacing and flat characterization. Despite the popularity of dragon books, readers may find better options elsewhere. [Extracted from the article]

In "Catherine the Ghost," a companion to Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights, author Kathe Koja offers a retelling that shifts the focus from romantic relationships to a familial one. The story is narrated alternately by the ghost of Catherine Linton and her daughter, Catherine Linton the younger. Koja delves deeper into the later period of Brontë's novel, exploring the turbulent mother-daughter relationship between the two Cathys. Fans of the original will appreciate Koja's constancy to Brontë's tone while giving greater voice to these characters. [Extracted from the article]

"Suggested in the Stars" is a novel by Yoko Tawada, translated from Japanese by Margaret Mitsutani. It is the second book in a planned trilogy set in the near future. The story follows Hiruko, a wanderer who is searching for someone who speaks her language after her homeland of Japan disappeared under the rising sea. Along her journey, she meets various characters, including Nanook, a former sushi chef from Greenland, and Knut, a Danish linguist. The novel explores themes of identity and language, with each character having a unique voice. The book has been praised for its inventive storytelling and captivating narrative. [Extracted from the article]

"Blue Light Hours" by Bruna Dantas Lobato is a delicate story about a student's first year at college and the growing distance between her and her mother. The unnamed narrator calls her mother in Brazil every day, sharing updates about her new life in Vermont. As the narrator adjusts to college, her mother's health improves while her own enthusiasm wanes. The novel explores the shifting dynamics between mother and daughter, and the atmospheric details of the pastoral setting and video calls add depth to the story. [Extracted from the article]

"Dietrich Kalteis's latest crime saga, 'Crooked,' is an entertaining depiction of the Depression-era Barker-Karpis gang, led by real-life gangsters Fred Barker and Alvin Karpis. The story follows their audacious bank robberies and their transformation into folk heroes, which alarms J. Edgar Hoover and the FBI. As the law closes in on the gang, they turn to increasingly extreme measures to escape, eventually ending up in Minnesota working for a corrupt cop. Kalteis skillfully captures the spirit of the times and creates multidimensional characters, making this a compelling read for fans of historical crime fiction." [Extracted from the article]

"The Essential Elizabeth Stone" by Jennifer Banash is a heart-wrenching novel about Juliet Stone, the daughter of a famous lifestyle guru, Elizabeth Stone. After Elizabeth's death, Juliet is approached to write her mother's biography and discovers that her mother's life story is mostly a lie. Elizabeth had built her brand on a false narrative, hiding her humble upbringing as Billie Abbot in Bar Harbor. As Juliet uncovers the truth, her own life is further disrupted by the discovery of her husband's infidelity. Banash skillfully weaves together the past and present, creating an expertly plotted tale that will captivate readers. [Extracted from the article]

"Bad Land" by Corinna Chong is a novel that tells the story of Regina, a loner living in her childhood home in the badlands of Alberta, Canada. When her younger brother Ricky shows up with his daughter Jez, Regina takes them in, hoping to form a meaningful relationship with Jez. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Ricky and Jez are on the run, and Regina is forced to confront the history of violence in their family. While the novel explores themes of generational trauma, some reviewers found the characterizations to be underdeveloped, particularly in regards to Regina's extreme isolation and obesity. [Extracted from the article]

"I'll Get Back to You" by Becca Grischow is a self-assured and charming debut novel. The story follows Murphy, a marketing student who feels stuck in her hometown while her best friend moves on to university. When Murphy meets Ellie, they make a deal to pretend to be girlfriends to help Ellie's chances of attending grad school and improve Murphy's grades. Grischow's take on fake dating is funny, heartfelt, and highly engaging. [Extracted from the article]

"The Bump" by Sidney Karger is a heartwarming novel that follows a gay couple, Biz and Wyatt, as they prepare for parenthood. The couple embarks on a cross-country trip before the arrival of their baby, but unexpected detours and personal challenges begin to strain their relationship. Biz loses his magazine column and struggles to tell Wyatt, while Wyatt discovers unopened letters from his absent father. The pressure builds, threatening to tear them apart. Karger skillfully portrays the emotional depth of their relationship, and readers will find themselves rooting for Biz and Wyatt to overcome their obstacles. [Extracted from the article]

In "Hers for the Weekend" by Helena Greer, high-powered lawyer Tara Chadwick receives an invitation to her ex-fiancée's wedding and feels the need to bring a fake girlfriend to save face. She confides in Holly, a waitress who has been interested in Tara since her breakup, and Holly agrees to be her girlfriend for the event. As they attend the wedding together, their mutual attraction becomes real, but they face obstacles due to Tara's desire for commitment and Holly's aversion to it. While the love story is predictable, fans of Greer's work may enjoy this romance. [Extracted from the article]

"Earthwhere" by Lindsay Illich is a collection of poems that explores themes of disaster, motherhood, and the nature of time. The poems address a variety of personal experiences, including a fire, a partner's health scare, and the loss of a baby. While some of the metaphors in the poems may feel strained, others are sharp and poignant. The collection occasionally references other poets and their works, but also leaves readers questioning the purpose of poetry. Overall, the engaging tone of the collection may appeal to some readers, although others may find it diffuse. [Extracted from the article]

"Proxy Mom: My Experience with Postpartum Depression" is a fictionalized story that portrays the mental health crisis of Marietta, who becomes clinically depressed during her pregnancy. The book explores Marietta's struggles with bonding with her baby, breastfeeding difficulties, and feelings of despondency, anxiety, and loneliness. Gradually, Marietta develops a connection with her daughter and gains confidence in her parenting. The book offers reassurance to new parents who may be experiencing similar challenges. [Extracted from the article]

"Making It" by Laura Kay is a compassionate coming-of-age story about Issy, a late bloomer recovering from debilitating depression. Issy finds solace in her quiet seaside town, her mother's flat, and her chinchilla, Abigail, who serves as her muse for creating art. When a local artist offers Issy a job in London, she is thrust into a vibrant and challenging world where she must navigate new relationships, take care of herself and Abigail, and find her artistic voice. While romance takes a back seat, the characters in the novel are flawed yet endearing, making for an uplifting and heartwarming story. [Extracted from the article]

"Gretel and the Great War" by Adam Ehrlich Sachs is an inventive novel that combines fantasy with Viennese life at the end of World War I. The story follows a mute young woman who is being treated by a neurologist, and her supposed father sends her 26 alphabetically arranged "bedtime stories" to read. These interconnected fables explore themes of broken families, social inequality, and revenge, while also highlighting Vienna's artistic milieu and the city's abundance of sanatorium residents and scientists. Sachs skillfully captures the atmosphere of a city on the brink of significant change, making this book a captivating read. [Extracted from the article]

"Sundays Money" by Maggie Hill is a gritty debut novel set in 1970s Brooklyn. The story follows Claire, a teenager who finds solace in basketball amidst a difficult home life. Claire uses basketball as an escape from the trauma she experiences, such as her brother's abuse and her mother's drinking. The newly passed Title IX provides hope for Claire's future as a collegiate student-athlete, steering her away from following in her mother's footsteps. The novel explores themes of substance use, mental illness, and the power of sports in maintaining and repairing bonds. Recommended for ages 13 and up. [Extracted from the article]

"Zia's Story" by Shahnaz Qayumi, illustrated by Nahid Kazemi, is a children's/YA book that follows the life of a young boy named Zia in Kabul. The story begins with Zia's excitement for a kite competition, but quickly takes a tragic turn as his father is taken by soldiers and the village loses electricity due to an explosion. Zia's mother opens an underground school when the Taliban forbids women and girls from being seen outdoors. Eventually, Zia and his mother flee to Pakistan, where Zia unknowingly becomes involved with the Taliban. The book, based on the author's experiences, provides a plainspoken and important tale for readers of all ages. [Extracted from the article]

Match Me If You Can by Swati Hegde is a heartwarming debut novel set in Mumbai. The story follows Jia and Jaiman, two former close family friends who become awkward around each other after a passionate moment at Jia's sister's wedding. Jia, a magazine writer, pitches a matchmaking column to her boss to feel closer to her late mother, who found love through a matchmaker. Jia's attempts at matchmaking and her simmering love story with Jaiman create an engaging narrative. The novel offers a gentle friends-to-lovers dynamic and promises a slow-burning romance. [Extracted from the article]

Finding the Light: A Mother's Journey from Trauma to Healing is a graphic memoir by Marian Henley, the creator of the comic strip Maxine. In the book, Henley recounts her decision to tell her adopted son about her experiences as a sexual assault victim, triggered by the degrading language towards women in his pop music. She discusses the two times she was raped, depicting the attacks and their aftermaths, as well as the callous treatment she received from the justice system. Henley's hope is that sharing her story can make a difference, and her artwork makes the difficult topic approachable. [Extracted from the article]

In "Love, Lies, and Cherry Pie" by Jackie Lau, the protagonist, Emily Hung, is constantly pressured by her mother to find a partner. Despite her reservations, Emily agrees to a fake-dating plan with family friend Mark Chan to appease her mother. However, their deception becomes complicated when they are forced to go on actual dates. The novel explores themes of family dynamics and self-awareness, and offers a funny and addictive take on the fake-dating trope. [Extracted from the article]

In "Look on the Bright Side" by Kristan Higgins, the protagonist Lark Smith, an oncology resident, is demoted to the ER after an emotional reaction to the death of a patient. She reluctantly agrees to pose as the girlfriend of surgeon Lorenzo Santini, known as Dr. Satan, at a family wedding in exchange for money and a promise to help her return to oncology. As Lark spends time with Lorenzo's Italian family, she falls in love with his brother Dante, who has a connection to her past. The novel also explores the stories of Lark's mother, Elsbeth, and her landlady, Joy, as they support each other through difficult times. The book combines emotional moments with hope and features strong female characters. [Extracted from the article]

"Mother Knows Best" is an anthology edited by Lindy Ryan that explores twisted caregiving and tainted love through 27 stories and poems. The anthology delves into the theme of mothers living vicariously through their children, even from beyond the grave, and taking their controlling urges to monstrous extremes. The stories highlight the dangers of domestic life and blur the lines between the challenges of parenting and supernatural horror. Some stories are creepy and unsettling, while others offer a surprisingly sweet perspective on motherhood. Overall, the anthology impresses with its chilling tales. [Extracted from the article]

Stephanie Middleberg's book, "The Big Book of Pregnancy Nutrition," provides a comprehensive guide for pregnant individuals on meeting their changing nutritional needs throughout each trimester. Middleberg offers advice on specific foods to consume to address common issues such as iron deficiency, constipation, acid reflux, and fluid retention. The book also includes recipes that aim to satisfy cravings while providing necessary nutrients. Overall, this resource is valuable for expecting parents seeking guidance on maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy and postpartum. [Extracted from the article]

Denise Dorrance's book, "Polar Vortex: A Family Memoir," tells the story of her return to her hometown in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, after her mother's injury and subsequent dementia diagnosis. As she navigates her mother's recovery and the impending polar vortex, Dorrance also grapples with her own emotional estrangements from her family and community. Through her unique comic style, Dorrance explores themes of family, memory, and loss, offering a sensitive portrayal of the challenges of elder care and the impact of memory on family history. [Extracted from the article]

"An Enemy Like Me" by Teri M. Brown is a historical fiction novel that explores the impact of a German American man's decision to enlist in the Army during World War II on his family for multiple generations. The story follows Jacob Miller, who leaves his wife and young son to fight fascism and show his allegiance to the United States. The narrative alternates between Jacob's combat experiences and his son William's fear of becoming the man of the house. The novel provides a well-rounded portrayal of German American life during this period and will appeal to fans of World War II fiction. [Extracted from the article]

"Curveball" is an uplifting graphic novel by Pablo Cartaya and illustrated by Miguel Diaz Rivas. The story follows Elena Rueda, a Latinx middle schooler who loves playing baseball but is pressured by her mother to focus solely on her career. When an injury prevents Elena from attending a summer baseball clinic, she discovers the importance of friendship and self-discovery through LARPing with her younger brother. The book explores the challenges of growing up and the struggle to balance personal desires with external expectations. With vibrant illustrations and a focus on individual challenges, "Curveball" goes beyond a typical sports narrative. Recommended for ages 8-12. [Extracted from the article]

"Calvaria Fell: Stories" is a joint collection of stories by Australian writers Cat Sparks and Kaaron Warren. The collection features both new and previously published stories that explore futures plagued by environmental challenges. One standout story is "68 Days" by Warren, which follows an ex-con narrator who applies to join a Mars mission for people with limited time to live. Sparks also impresses with "Some Kind of Indescribable," which takes place in a post-apocalyptic future and follows a mother's desperate search for hope for her daughter. The collection is praised for its originality, coherence, and its ability to evoke human responses to adverse conditions. [Extracted from the article]

"An Enemy Like Me" by Teri M. Brown is a stimulating yet uneven novel that explores the impact of a German American man's decision to enlist in the Army during World War II on his family for multiple generations. The story follows Jacob Miller, who leaves his wife and young son to fight fascism and show his allegiance to the U.S. The narrative alternates between Jacob's combat experiences and his son William's fear of becoming the man of the house. The novel provides a well-rounded portrayal of German American life during this period and will appeal to fans of WWII fiction. [Extracted from the article]

"Non Serviam: The Hypostasis of Dissent, Book 1" is a gothic novel set in a dystopian state called Vencenza. The story follows two revolutionaries, Giorgianna and Bauta, as they resist the oppressive regime of Governor Crescenzo Zuane De Tullia. The novel explores themes of violence, corruption, and the power of resistance. While the book's archaic prose and inventive vocabulary may not appeal to all readers, those who enjoy immersive and morally weighty stories will find this complex gothic tale captivating. [Extracted from the article]

"The Electrician and the Seamstress" by Monica Granlove is a moving romance novel set against the backdrop of World War II. The story follows the love story between Karla Petersen and Bruno Arnold, who meet in the late 1920s. The novel explores the challenges faced by the couple as they navigate the political fallout from the First World War and the rising Nazi powers in Germany. The book also delves into the struggles of German civilians and soldiers during the war, including the moral crises faced by those on the front lines. Overall, "The Electrician and the Seamstress" offers a nuanced portrayal of how everyday relationships are affected by war. [Extracted from the article]

"The Prince of Pirates: A Tale of Love, Loss, and Lots O'Loot" by E.H. Casteele is a historical fiction novel that humanizes the infamous pirate Samuel Bellamy. The story is narrated by Loyd, a seasoned seaman, as he recounts the life of Bellamy to his grandchildren. The book draws heavily from historical accounts and portrays the gritty reality of 18th-century naval life without romanticizing piracy. It explores themes of love, adventure, and the challenges faced by seafaring families during that time. The novel also highlights the progress and pitfalls of our own time. [Extracted from the article]

"Eddie Hest vs. Suburbia" is a debut novel by Catherine Castoro that tells the story of Eddie Hest, a single mother who is determined to provide a good life for her daughter. Eddie moves to a Detroit suburb and unintentionally becomes entangled in the manipulative world of soccer mom Shelia Davis. The book follows Eddie's journey as she navigates the challenges of suburban life and ultimately stands up to Shelia. Castoro's unique storytelling style, presented as descriptive monologues recorded by Eddie, adds to the memorable nature of the protagonist. This entertaining tale will appeal to readers who enjoy stories about unconventional mothers and the complexities of suburban life. [Extracted from the article]

"Journey Bread: New & Selected Poems" by Ruth Thompson is a collection of tender and reflective poems that explore personal history, myth, and meditations on nature. The poems serve as a literary mosaic, combining recollections, vignettes, and retellings of familiar stories. Thompson's verse is described as plantlike, with deep roots and verdant imagery. Memory is a major theme in the collection, with the poems capturing both the faltering and preservation of memories. Overall, "Journey Bread" is a finely crafted collection that invites readers to observe the details in both the poems and the world around them. [Extracted from the article]

"One Ripple at a Time: A Mother's Story of Life after Loss" is a pensive and heartbreaking memoir by Janice Jensen. The memoir recounts the tragic loss of Jensen's nine-year-old son, Brian, in a drowning accident in Austria. Jensen explores the profound grief experienced by her family and the challenges they face in trying to find closure and maintain their connection. Despite the sorrow, the memoir ends on a note of enduring love and hope. This memoir would appeal to readers who enjoyed "Wave" by Sonali Deraniyagala and "The Light of the World" by Elizabeth Alexander. [Extracted from the article]