Because suffering is a universal human experience, it makes a good subject for a novel. In Ayelet Waldman's Red Hook Road, a tragedy opens the door to examine how different families and individuals tackle loss.

Set over four successive summers, readers observe the grieving process through time and in the space of a small town setting. I found the story both realistic and interesting. The heartbreak is palpable and the characterizations are well done. Many readers will be drawn to the excellent portrayal of a young adoptee with innate musical gifts, her relationship with an aging violin virtuoso and the development of her talent. The evocative descriptions of classical music are some of the book's most beautiful passages.

I related to many of the characters, flawed but with their own strengths and charms. Strongly written, it was an easy read without being either fluffy or unintelligent. I was initially interested in reading this because I enjoyed hearing Waldman on NPR and have read several of the novels of her husband, Michael Chabon. I'm glad to have read it and look forward to reading more of Waldman's work.