Yet Another Good Book...

After reading Mrs. Kimble a few weeks back, I knew I wanted to read more by author Jennifer Haigh. My friend Jeanne Kaye who is also an avid reader suggested The Condition A Novel and I have to say Thank You, JK!! It was another great read!
This New York Times Bestseller is more than the story of a young woman with Turner's Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that keeps Gwen forever trapped in the body of a child. Rather it is the story of the entire McKotch family and how it gradually falls apart. Haigh explores the human condition - the weaknesses and faults that we all have, the mistakes we make and the disappointments that follow. No family is perfect and, as in life, every member of this family has their own challenges to face and deal with. Gwen's "condition" is only one of many that afflicts the McKotch family. The father, Frank, a scientist, is a workaholic - one could say he's obsessed. Paulette, the mother is controlling and very insecure. Sons Billy and Scott each have their own issues too - I don't want to give away too much of the story here, folks.
Haigh develops each character beautifully as the children move on with their adult lives, all are so "real" and believable. As they each struggle to cope with the choices they have made, the family drifts apart. Will they resolve their issues? Can they ever come back together as a loving family unit?
The Condition A Novel is really a story of relationships, and Haigh does a superb job of capturing the humanity of this dysfunctional family. It will make you think about your family and the relationships therein. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading more of Haigh's writing.

Peace,
Linda

"Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors and the most patient of teachers." ~ Charles W. Eliot