“Blue Sisters” is, in many ways, a Trojan horse of a novel – what seems like a light, fast read is actually a deeply serious and heartfelt story about grief’s enduring grip and the slow, often painful process of rebuilding in its wake.
All tagged siblings
The Vanishing Half – Brit Bennett
Expectation: A searing exploration of race and class told from the perspective of twin sisters who live on opposite ends of the color line.
Reality: Structured to be palatable for the masses, it’s entertaining enough but far from the powerful story I expected given the near universal acclaim it has received.
Brother & Sister Enter the Forest – Richard Mirabella
Expectation: A modern retelling of Hansel and Greta but with PTSD being the villain.
Reality: An engrossing and complex story about forgiveness and self-love. It’s not going to be to everyone’s taste, but it’s worth the read.
Sharks in the Time of Saviors – Kawai Strong Washburn
Expectation: A quasi-scifi family drama about carrying the weight of your family’s hopes and dreams.
Reality: A strong first half was ruined by a mid-point plot twist that rendered the rest of the novel far less interesting.
A Place for Us – Fatima Farheen Mirza
Expectation: A family drama heavy on religious guilt and first-generation American children defying parental expectations.
Reality: An initially confusing beginning unfolds into a layered, understated and deeply moving portrayal of the danger of secrets, carrying shame and failed second chances.
Commonwealth – Ann Patchett
Expectation: A depressing family drama.
Reality: The perfect balance of light and heavy, Ann Patchett brought to life a cast of interesting characters with her trademark observations on the nature of relationships and how they evolve over time.
The Dutch House – Ann Patchett
A lovely exploration of growing up and looking back, focused on two siblings.