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The Memory Box
Four girls. A remarkable dress. An extraordinary friendship. This is the second book in the wonderful "Shoestring" series. Meltdowns are a funny old thing. You can be as together as you like, and then one day - BOOM - something throws you into a messy tailspin and you freefall into full panic mode. For some people it can be triggered by something as simple as turning thirty. For others - me for example - a meltdown is a little more complicated. And the trigger is something rather more serious than a birthday. Pandora Schuster is about to turn thirty but that's the least of her worries. She's just been tested for a hereditary family illness and, expecting the worst, she's desperate for her ex-boyfriend and father of nine-year-old Iris to be a part of her daughter's life. But there are two major problems: Olivier Huppert lives in Paris and he has no idea that Iris even exists. Pandora secretly tries to find Olivier during her serendipitous thirtieth birthday weekend to Paris, but the trip doesn't exactly go to plan. Back in Dublin, as the agonising weeks until her test results crawl by, Pandora manages to find some distraction with her kind and sensible boyfriend, Declan, and thanks to the increasing bond with her fellow Shoestring Club members as they time-share a fabulous new designer dress. But matters of the heart are not easily forgotten and Pandora is forced to make some serious decisions. She is determined for Iris to know who her father is and creates a memory box filled with photos, letters and mementoes. Pandora's box conjures up magical memories of the time she spent with Olivier in Paris until the past and the present start to collide and she finds herself having to choose between her head and her heart.
299 pages, Paperback
First published January 17, 2013
6 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Webb
98 books165 followersSarah Webb is an award-winning children’s writer. Her books include Blazing a Trail: Irish Women who Changed the World (illustrated by Lauren O’Neill) and A Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, Sea: Favourite Rhymes from an Irish Childhood (illustrated by Steve McCarthy), both winners of Irish Book Awards.
Sarah also runs creative writing clubs for children and teens, reviews children’s books for the Irish Independent, and programmes children’s and family events for book festivals and MoLI (Museum of Literature Ireland). She also works part-time in a children’s bookshop.
Sarah is passionate about bringing children and books together and was awarded the Children’s Books Ireland Award for Outstanding Contribution to Children’s Books in Ireland.
Her latest book, The Little Beekeeper of Henrietta Street (illustrated by Rachel Corcoran) was published in 2021.
www.sarahwebb.ie
Twitter: @sarahwebbishere
Instagram: @sarahwebbwriter
Sarah also runs creative writing clubs for children and teens, reviews children’s books for the Irish Independent, and programmes children’s and family events for book festivals and MoLI (Museum of Literature Ireland). She also works part-time in a children’s bookshop.
Sarah is passionate about bringing children and books together and was awarded the Children’s Books Ireland Award for Outstanding Contribution to Children’s Books in Ireland.
Her latest book, The Little Beekeeper of Henrietta Street (illustrated by Rachel Corcoran) was published in 2021.
www.sarahwebb.ie
Twitter: @sarahwebbishere
Instagram: @sarahwebbwriter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 30, 2016
'The Memory Box' by Sarah Webb covers the well-worn path of girl about to be married but can't stop thinking of first lost teenage love. Suspend disbelief that a handsome and successful Frenchman who is 28 years old has not had a relationship for 10 years but has made no effort to find her... you get the picture. Add in some zany friends and family, a love child and the genetic breast cancer gene ... but the outcome is so obvious it's hardly worth getting to the end. If you remember films of the 1940s and 50s that ended suddenly with the couple finally embracing after 90 minutes of movie mayhem, and the words The End suddenly appearing on the screen - well, it was like that. An entire book to get them together then in three pages, all done - the end.
September 13, 2013
I think the cover of The Memory Box is absolutely stunning! I love the colours and although I had never read a book by Sarah Webb before, I was very eager to start it!
Pandora lost her mother to cancer, and close to her thirtieth birthday, she is contacted by a friend of her mother’s who tells her that she might have a hereditary gene, and so she gets tested. Fearing the worst, she is desperate for her ex-boyfriend and father of her nine-year-old Iris to be part of her daughter’s life, and decides she wants to find him. Determined for Iris to know about her father, Pandora creates a memory box filled with letters and photos of her time spent with Olivier in Paris. And whilst she is waiting for her test results Pandora finds herself concerned about many things close to her heart – Olivier, her boyfriend Declan and her fellow members of the Shoestring Club, and whether to choose between her head or her heart…
I really enjoyed this! As i mentioned before, I hadn’t read anything by Sarah before, but I love trying new authors, as you never know when you might find your new favourite book or author. I found The Memory Box was very easy to slip into, and before I knew it I was already half-way through! Sarah Webb writes wonderfully and the words flow so well that it was such a delight reading this story.
I found some of the aspects of the story very interesting, and one of these was The Shoestring Club. The Shoestring Club is a group of women who are unable to afford nice and expensive dresses on their own, so instead they share. I really liked this idea as these women are still able to have a chance to wear beautiful clothes, and I very much enjoyed reading about the friendship and the strong bond that they created.
The characters were very well written, they came to life instantly and they all had very familiar sense about them, so it felt as though I had known them for a long time. I warmed to Pandora straight away, I loved her character and I was rooting for her throughout, as well as hoping for goods news when the results came back. The Memory Box is an easy to read and touching novel that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.
Pandora lost her mother to cancer, and close to her thirtieth birthday, she is contacted by a friend of her mother’s who tells her that she might have a hereditary gene, and so she gets tested. Fearing the worst, she is desperate for her ex-boyfriend and father of her nine-year-old Iris to be part of her daughter’s life, and decides she wants to find him. Determined for Iris to know about her father, Pandora creates a memory box filled with letters and photos of her time spent with Olivier in Paris. And whilst she is waiting for her test results Pandora finds herself concerned about many things close to her heart – Olivier, her boyfriend Declan and her fellow members of the Shoestring Club, and whether to choose between her head or her heart…
I really enjoyed this! As i mentioned before, I hadn’t read anything by Sarah before, but I love trying new authors, as you never know when you might find your new favourite book or author. I found The Memory Box was very easy to slip into, and before I knew it I was already half-way through! Sarah Webb writes wonderfully and the words flow so well that it was such a delight reading this story.
I found some of the aspects of the story very interesting, and one of these was The Shoestring Club. The Shoestring Club is a group of women who are unable to afford nice and expensive dresses on their own, so instead they share. I really liked this idea as these women are still able to have a chance to wear beautiful clothes, and I very much enjoyed reading about the friendship and the strong bond that they created.
The characters were very well written, they came to life instantly and they all had very familiar sense about them, so it felt as though I had known them for a long time. I warmed to Pandora straight away, I loved her character and I was rooting for her throughout, as well as hoping for goods news when the results came back. The Memory Box is an easy to read and touching novel that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.
September 13, 2013
www.iheart-chicklit.blogspot.com
Remarkably touching.I've never read any of Sarah Webb's books, but when I got The Memory Box in the post, I was intrigued and really excited to read it. Look at that gorgeous cover, it really draws you in, doesn't it? The blurb really is something, isn't it? Especially when the book is partially set in Paris, which got me really excited!
The Memory Box follows the story of Pandora and Jules Schuster, who lives with their father and grandmother, Bird. In this book, Pandora is the protagonist, where she receives a letter one day, and finds out that she may be carrying a hereditary cancer gene (they lost their mother to cancer). A panicked Pandora is adamant that her ex-lover and Iris's father, would be a part of his daughter's life, as she might not know what the future holds. Therefore, she secretly finds Olivier on her birthday to Paris with her friends, which turns out to be rather disastrous. What with the impending test results and her undecided fate, she decides to create a memory box for Iris, in case she never gets the chance to learn about her biological father.
Pandora, or Dora (to Olivier), is a wonderfully written character, she's warm, sensible and caring. She's a loving mum to Iris, and naturally friendly. I admired how cool, calm and collected she can be when faced with a difficult situation, but at times, I couldn't stand how she could let things go over her head. But nobody is perfect, she's just thoughtful and way too kind to everyone! The other characters were very well-written too, including Pandora's sister, Jules! Gosh, she's a whirlwind to be around, I tell you! She's the absolute opposite of Pandora - funny, wild and full of life! Iris was such a sweetheart - I adored her! The "protagonist" in the book, which would be Declan's ex-wife, could be a bit of a cow, to be honest, so prepare to hate her!
I loved the setting of the book, it's primarily set in Dublin, a city I've grown to love as a few of my favourite books are by Irish authors. There's a part where Pandora and the girls visit Paris on her birthday and it was such a privilege to read about the beautiful city of lights! Though it may seem a bit like a romantic comedy, it has some elements in it that would trigger tears, especially the parts about the girls' mother and the importance of family, especially their mother's heartfelt letters, which were extremely touching!
The Memory Box is fabulously charming book which will leave you wondering about your true love and the ever-burning desire you have for each other. If you read and enjoyed The Shoestring Club, then this book will be an absolute treat for you as it's the sequel! Perfect for fans of Carole Matthews and Jenny Colgan.
Rating: 8/10
Remarkably touching.I've never read any of Sarah Webb's books, but when I got The Memory Box in the post, I was intrigued and really excited to read it. Look at that gorgeous cover, it really draws you in, doesn't it? The blurb really is something, isn't it? Especially when the book is partially set in Paris, which got me really excited!
The Memory Box follows the story of Pandora and Jules Schuster, who lives with their father and grandmother, Bird. In this book, Pandora is the protagonist, where she receives a letter one day, and finds out that she may be carrying a hereditary cancer gene (they lost their mother to cancer). A panicked Pandora is adamant that her ex-lover and Iris's father, would be a part of his daughter's life, as she might not know what the future holds. Therefore, she secretly finds Olivier on her birthday to Paris with her friends, which turns out to be rather disastrous. What with the impending test results and her undecided fate, she decides to create a memory box for Iris, in case she never gets the chance to learn about her biological father.
Pandora, or Dora (to Olivier), is a wonderfully written character, she's warm, sensible and caring. She's a loving mum to Iris, and naturally friendly. I admired how cool, calm and collected she can be when faced with a difficult situation, but at times, I couldn't stand how she could let things go over her head. But nobody is perfect, she's just thoughtful and way too kind to everyone! The other characters were very well-written too, including Pandora's sister, Jules! Gosh, she's a whirlwind to be around, I tell you! She's the absolute opposite of Pandora - funny, wild and full of life! Iris was such a sweetheart - I adored her! The "protagonist" in the book, which would be Declan's ex-wife, could be a bit of a cow, to be honest, so prepare to hate her!
I loved the setting of the book, it's primarily set in Dublin, a city I've grown to love as a few of my favourite books are by Irish authors. There's a part where Pandora and the girls visit Paris on her birthday and it was such a privilege to read about the beautiful city of lights! Though it may seem a bit like a romantic comedy, it has some elements in it that would trigger tears, especially the parts about the girls' mother and the importance of family, especially their mother's heartfelt letters, which were extremely touching!
The Memory Box is fabulously charming book which will leave you wondering about your true love and the ever-burning desire you have for each other. If you read and enjoyed The Shoestring Club, then this book will be an absolute treat for you as it's the sequel! Perfect for fans of Carole Matthews and Jenny Colgan.
Rating: 8/10
May 8, 2013
Pandora Schuster is about to turn thirty when she received a letter from her dead mother’s doctor and in just a blink of an eye the content of the letter has turned her life upside down. She is due to be tested for a cancer gene which killed her mother in the first place. Pandora has no guts and willingness to share this news with her family or her boyfriend, Declan. At this point where she has no idea what her test results would be, she decided to search for her daughter Iris’s biological father whom she truly loved all those years back. On her thirtieth b’day Pandora plans the trip to Paris and she is positive that she would be able to track down Iris’s father, Olivier and if in case it turned out that she does have cancer cells in her body, he will take care of Iris. But things went south when Olivier refused to listen to anything she has to say. Pandora flies back home, broken hearted and tired. She gave up hope to ever unite Iris with her real father and instead promised herself that she will make a memory box for her daughter. Pandora is happy to split her time between writing letters for the memory box and time sharing yet another gorgeous dress with Shoestring Club members when Olivier turned up on her doorsteps out of blue. While the first book in Shoestring Club series was about Pandora’s younger sister Julia, this book is about Pandora. Sarah has managed to keep the tone of the book light despite of the heavy and way too emotional storyline. While I laughed along with Julia, I cried bucket loads with Pandora.
October 10, 2017
I loved this book, and so glad I read it straight after The shoestring club as these two books are linked, same family, main two characters being Jules and Pandora.
The story was well written with a hint of sadness, brought a tear to my eyes in a couple of places. Beautiful story.
The story was well written with a hint of sadness, brought a tear to my eyes in a couple of places. Beautiful story.
October 16, 2016
Probably ok if you like these type of books. Trying to be more inclusive when reading
just now, but this book just didn't do it for me
just now, but this book just didn't do it for me
July 9, 2019
This could be a very nice book to read but I personally do not enjoy it. The storyline and characters are very boring and flat. I read through the whole book like I was reading a textbook.
December 4, 2019
A light romantic story. I enjoyed reading it but I think it is tied up too neatly. Declan is a bit too understanding when his proposal is met with a "less than enthusiastic" response. Alex makes a remarkable recovery from her phobia and Olivier is very quick to respond to Jules letter when he had returned Pandora's letter unopened. Also the serious issue of the BRCG1 gene is not given as much gravity as it deserves. However nevertheless it is an enjoyable read and I would read The Shoestring Club by Sarah Webb sometime in the future.
(The reason I took so long to finish this book is because I was half way through when my sister in law borrowed it & I only got back to reading it last week.)
(The reason I took so long to finish this book is because I was half way through when my sister in law borrowed it & I only got back to reading it last week.)
November 9, 2017
With every thing going on in Pandora's life it is remarkable that she is able to handel it all . Ever since Iris , her daughter , started asking about her father Pandora has started thinking of what to tell her . Even though she wants Iris to see Declain , her boyfriend as a father figuer Iris wants to know her real father .
On Pandora's trip to Paris she decides to visit Olivier Hurppet ,the father of Iris , after he refuses to talk to her she gives up hope and goes back to Dublin . She decides to create a memory box for Iris to know how much Pandora loved her Olivier .
she does all of this knowing shes at risk of getting caner .
On Pandora's trip to Paris she decides to visit Olivier Hurppet ,the father of Iris , after he refuses to talk to her she gives up hope and goes back to Dublin . She decides to create a memory box for Iris to know how much Pandora loved her Olivier .
she does all of this knowing shes at risk of getting caner .
September 3, 2017
at first, I don't really like about the general plot which is told us about someone has an illness and they couldn't live longer, so they had to do something before it's too late.
but it was different. so original and emotional. funny and clever at the same time. my eyes were filled with tears when reading some emotionals plot. I could not imagine if I were Pandora Schuster at her age. 30 is really something, but what if you had something complicated life before going 30?
this story also taught me how to love unconditionally.
but it was different. so original and emotional. funny and clever at the same time. my eyes were filled with tears when reading some emotionals plot. I could not imagine if I were Pandora Schuster at her age. 30 is really something, but what if you had something complicated life before going 30?
this story also taught me how to love unconditionally.
November 1, 2022
This is one of those 'perfect, easy reads between heavier books that could be based on a true story' novels.
Down to earth, showing that mistakes and bad judgement are normal and no family relationships are without their stress and problems.
Down to earth, showing that mistakes and bad judgement are normal and no family relationships are without their stress and problems.
January 24, 2018
First time with Sarah Webb. Really enjoyed it & like the reaction between the family, the past & emotions we all have. Hard to put down.
August 31, 2024
A charming, easy to read romance. Loved the characters and how the book deals with the serious issues of cancer and agriphobia.
September 3, 2024
I loved this sequel to The Shoestring Club.
Lovely characters & I’m so pleased there was a happy ending for Pandora & Jules.
I am sorry the Sarah Webb doesn’t write adult fiction anymore .
Lovely characters & I’m so pleased there was a happy ending for Pandora & Jules.
I am sorry the Sarah Webb doesn’t write adult fiction anymore .
March 20, 2025
I hated most of the west brit characters. Why not just set the story in England?
There was about one person with an Irish name, and he was a red flag city..
There was about one person with an Irish name, and he was a red flag city..
September 9, 2013
http://www.pagetostagereviews.com/201...
Pandora's mother died when she was just a teenager and when close to her thirtieth birthday she's contacted by an old friend of her mother's who tells her that she may have a gene that increases her risk of getting cancer, Pandora becomes worried not so much for herself but for her own young daughter, Iris, and the possibility that she too will grow up without a mother.
Trying to plan for the unpredictable future as best as she can Pandora uses her birthday celebrations as an opportunity for a long overdue trip back to France, where she went for a few months to work as an au pair after she finished school and coincidingly conceived her daughter. Her plan is to track down Olivier, the then love of her life, to finally tell him about Iris' existence and ensure that her daughter will have at least one parent looking after her when growing up.
The Memory Box does not only tell the story of Pandora's search for Olivier, but it also focuses on the other members of the Shoestring Club; a group of women who, unable to afford the more expensive vintage clothes from Pandora's shop, buy exquisite pieces of designer wear together and time-share them. It is a clever way of being able to (temporary) afford a piece of clothing normally out of reach and the women also form a close bond of friendship as they ceremoniously pass on the item of choice at special Shoestring dinners.
This is the first novel by Irish author Sarah Webb I have read and so I was unfamiliar with The Shoestring Club going into this read. This was not a problem however, as the characters are so true to life that it feels as if you've known them for years even when it is closer to days, as was the case for me. And any reference made to something that happened before this particular story takes place was explained so as a reader I didn't feel lost at all having no previous knowledge about the women.
I loved the idea of "Pandora's Box". Worried that Iris will grow up without her mother being able to relay all the stories of her life to her, Pandora decides to create a box filled with mementos from the time she spent in Paris working as an au pair and falling in love with Olivier. She writes down a memory in the form of a letter to her daughter for each item she places in the box, making it a very special gift. Even if there is no risk of losing a parent far too early in life I think this is a brilliant idea for parents to give their children something unique and personal that they can cherish for the rest of their lives.
It was very easy to connect to the character of Pandora. Her fear of leaving her daughter at such a young age, coupled with the everlasting responsibility she feels for her family, and her sister Jules in particular, are very relatable. She's had so much to deal with in her life already that when she first learns about the hereditary gene you want nothing more than for her to receive some good news, at last. And so as the weeks passed by in the novel (and days for me) I was equally dreading and longing for the test results, just like the character herself.
I also want to mention Alex, another member of the Shoestring Club, and her husband Markham. I quickly fell in love with the both of them - they are incredibly sweet together! And so when Pandora started helping Alex to overcome some issues I silently cheered her on, willing Alex to take control back over her own life so she and Markie could be truly happy again.
The Memory Box is a sweet yet also very moving novel about friendship, relationships and love, and after finishing it I feel I've gained some wonderful new friends in the Shoestring Club members. And as a (not so) silent hint to the author I'd like to say that I look forward to reading more about them in the future!
Pandora's mother died when she was just a teenager and when close to her thirtieth birthday she's contacted by an old friend of her mother's who tells her that she may have a gene that increases her risk of getting cancer, Pandora becomes worried not so much for herself but for her own young daughter, Iris, and the possibility that she too will grow up without a mother.
Trying to plan for the unpredictable future as best as she can Pandora uses her birthday celebrations as an opportunity for a long overdue trip back to France, where she went for a few months to work as an au pair after she finished school and coincidingly conceived her daughter. Her plan is to track down Olivier, the then love of her life, to finally tell him about Iris' existence and ensure that her daughter will have at least one parent looking after her when growing up.
The Memory Box does not only tell the story of Pandora's search for Olivier, but it also focuses on the other members of the Shoestring Club; a group of women who, unable to afford the more expensive vintage clothes from Pandora's shop, buy exquisite pieces of designer wear together and time-share them. It is a clever way of being able to (temporary) afford a piece of clothing normally out of reach and the women also form a close bond of friendship as they ceremoniously pass on the item of choice at special Shoestring dinners.
This is the first novel by Irish author Sarah Webb I have read and so I was unfamiliar with The Shoestring Club going into this read. This was not a problem however, as the characters are so true to life that it feels as if you've known them for years even when it is closer to days, as was the case for me. And any reference made to something that happened before this particular story takes place was explained so as a reader I didn't feel lost at all having no previous knowledge about the women.
I loved the idea of "Pandora's Box". Worried that Iris will grow up without her mother being able to relay all the stories of her life to her, Pandora decides to create a box filled with mementos from the time she spent in Paris working as an au pair and falling in love with Olivier. She writes down a memory in the form of a letter to her daughter for each item she places in the box, making it a very special gift. Even if there is no risk of losing a parent far too early in life I think this is a brilliant idea for parents to give their children something unique and personal that they can cherish for the rest of their lives.
It was very easy to connect to the character of Pandora. Her fear of leaving her daughter at such a young age, coupled with the everlasting responsibility she feels for her family, and her sister Jules in particular, are very relatable. She's had so much to deal with in her life already that when she first learns about the hereditary gene you want nothing more than for her to receive some good news, at last. And so as the weeks passed by in the novel (and days for me) I was equally dreading and longing for the test results, just like the character herself.
I also want to mention Alex, another member of the Shoestring Club, and her husband Markham. I quickly fell in love with the both of them - they are incredibly sweet together! And so when Pandora started helping Alex to overcome some issues I silently cheered her on, willing Alex to take control back over her own life so she and Markie could be truly happy again.
The Memory Box is a sweet yet also very moving novel about friendship, relationships and love, and after finishing it I feel I've gained some wonderful new friends in the Shoestring Club members. And as a (not so) silent hint to the author I'd like to say that I look forward to reading more about them in the future!
October 3, 2013
3.5 stars.
I have never read Sarah Webb before, which is a shame, and I'd give my best to better myself in this matter.
"The Memory Box" is a second in a series of "Shoestrings" and this time tells a story of the older sister, Pandora. Must just admit right here that I am very intrigued about the story of Jules and will for sure get my copy soon.
Pandora. She has just received a letter telling her that she can have a hereditary cancer gene and she lets herself to be tested. Then comes the long time when she waits for the result of the test and a lot of things happens in this time. she has her shop, her daughter, her family and her "Shoestring" club where she meets new people, whose subplot will be actually also important in the book. Then she wants her daughter Iris to get to know her father who lives in Paris which is not as easy as one can think. And then she has a boyfriend, who has a teenager daughter and almost ex - wife who still loves him. Pure chaos.
Pandora is not a bad character although there were moments that I thought that she is just boring. But maybe I have expected too much, she is just a normal person, like we are, and to be honest, we are also sometimes boring, right? Nevertheless, I couldn't warm to her totally. Maybe she wanted to save the world once too many? She was a nice, likeable person, she was just a little to meh for me, and there were moments that I wanted to shake her strongly and tell her, wake up, girl, and make up your mind finally. And don't let other people say what's best for you.
When some can admire the close relationship that she had with her grandmother and sister, there were also moments that I personally couldn't stand it. I am a family person, I am in touch with my parents and sisters, we can talk okay, but I am also an adult and of course, I can ask for advice but I am not going to let other people, even if it is my family, tell me what's good or what's wrong for me. And it was this case, Bird and Jules telling Pandora what they thin is the best for her. The conversations, almost like therapy, were just playing with my nerves.
The other characters were also very interesting and every one of them had their own story. Life is just not as simple as we'd like it to be! They came to life instantly, especially Jules, Pandora's sister, who is a real whirlwind, and say what you want, but Declan's story was also great. Ok, I wanted to slap him and tell him stop being such girl but on the other hand we can't just stop thinking about our families or our past just like that. The story of Alex and Markham was really touching and I am keeping my fingers crossed for them till today and I hope everything will be okay for them. Maybe a separate story for them, hmmmmm? :)))
I loved the idea of the Memory Box itself and I was slightly disappointed that we didn't get more of the letters and memories. I was hoping for much more items, much more gifts here. But I think it is absolutely lovely idea for parents to give to their children, in every circumstances.
There are some important issues in this book, like the above mentioned hereditary cancer gene and the importance of us just going to the doctor, the agoraphobia, the death of our closest and how hard it is to cope with it, finally friendship, love and family. A lot of issues, and too many descriptions and too less action for my liking. Nevertheless, it is a moving story and I am really glad I have got the chance to read this book.
I received a copy of this book from publisher in exchange for a review.
I have never read Sarah Webb before, which is a shame, and I'd give my best to better myself in this matter.
"The Memory Box" is a second in a series of "Shoestrings" and this time tells a story of the older sister, Pandora. Must just admit right here that I am very intrigued about the story of Jules and will for sure get my copy soon.
Pandora. She has just received a letter telling her that she can have a hereditary cancer gene and she lets herself to be tested. Then comes the long time when she waits for the result of the test and a lot of things happens in this time. she has her shop, her daughter, her family and her "Shoestring" club where she meets new people, whose subplot will be actually also important in the book. Then she wants her daughter Iris to get to know her father who lives in Paris which is not as easy as one can think. And then she has a boyfriend, who has a teenager daughter and almost ex - wife who still loves him. Pure chaos.
Pandora is not a bad character although there were moments that I thought that she is just boring. But maybe I have expected too much, she is just a normal person, like we are, and to be honest, we are also sometimes boring, right? Nevertheless, I couldn't warm to her totally. Maybe she wanted to save the world once too many? She was a nice, likeable person, she was just a little to meh for me, and there were moments that I wanted to shake her strongly and tell her, wake up, girl, and make up your mind finally. And don't let other people say what's best for you.
When some can admire the close relationship that she had with her grandmother and sister, there were also moments that I personally couldn't stand it. I am a family person, I am in touch with my parents and sisters, we can talk okay, but I am also an adult and of course, I can ask for advice but I am not going to let other people, even if it is my family, tell me what's good or what's wrong for me. And it was this case, Bird and Jules telling Pandora what they thin is the best for her. The conversations, almost like therapy, were just playing with my nerves.
The other characters were also very interesting and every one of them had their own story. Life is just not as simple as we'd like it to be! They came to life instantly, especially Jules, Pandora's sister, who is a real whirlwind, and say what you want, but Declan's story was also great. Ok, I wanted to slap him and tell him stop being such girl but on the other hand we can't just stop thinking about our families or our past just like that. The story of Alex and Markham was really touching and I am keeping my fingers crossed for them till today and I hope everything will be okay for them. Maybe a separate story for them, hmmmmm? :)))
I loved the idea of the Memory Box itself and I was slightly disappointed that we didn't get more of the letters and memories. I was hoping for much more items, much more gifts here. But I think it is absolutely lovely idea for parents to give to their children, in every circumstances.
There are some important issues in this book, like the above mentioned hereditary cancer gene and the importance of us just going to the doctor, the agoraphobia, the death of our closest and how hard it is to cope with it, finally friendship, love and family. A lot of issues, and too many descriptions and too less action for my liking. Nevertheless, it is a moving story and I am really glad I have got the chance to read this book.
I received a copy of this book from publisher in exchange for a review.
May 12, 2021
I received this book as a gift for Christmas a good few years ago now. It’s not my usual type of read so it got pushed aside, but I picked it up recently and it actually had a bit more depth to it than I was expecting.
There were a few interweaving plot lines, one of which added very little to the overall story (Alex & Markham) and I felt like it was only there to add to the word count.
The overall plot was pretty saccharine sweet but there were some deeper moments, like the discussion of the breast cancer gene and baby loss.
I would give this a 2.5 stars overall - enjoyed it more than I thought I would but I prefer a book with a lot more depth to plot and characters.
This would be the perfect read for a sunny summer holiday abroad, to be devoured whilst drinking cocktails by the pool.
There were a few interweaving plot lines, one of which added very little to the overall story (Alex & Markham) and I felt like it was only there to add to the word count.
The overall plot was pretty saccharine sweet but there were some deeper moments, like the discussion of the breast cancer gene and baby loss.
I would give this a 2.5 stars overall - enjoyed it more than I thought I would but I prefer a book with a lot more depth to plot and characters.
This would be the perfect read for a sunny summer holiday abroad, to be devoured whilst drinking cocktails by the pool.
June 9, 2016
I really enjoyed this book! I do feel it ended a bit abruptly though...
I found it a nice light read. Which doesn't sound right to say, since it deals with such heavy topics and all of Pandora's hardships. Sarah Webb could have made this a very sad story had she wanted to! I did still cry towards the end of this novel.
I would love if there was a follow on to this. Or even from Oliviers p.o.v. for the last 10 years! I haven't read the Shoestring Club so I will have to pick it up sometime. Although I didn't really warm to Jule's character. I hoped I wasn't missing any background information by just reading The Memory Box. This book has the prettiest cover ever!
Quotes:
'However much it breaks my heart to remember, Iris will have her memory box.'
'Plaster a smile on your face and get out there and do whatever it is that you love to do the best.'
'Be happy, my darling. Savour every day on this wonderful earth and know that I will carry you and Boolie with me, always and for ever.'
'... and I'm proud of her. It hasn't been easy, especially not in Ireland where people tend to look at you funny if you order a soft drink.'
" 'But she's leaving her babies all alone in the world,' I sob. (Charlotte's Web)"
'Until I met Olivier I'd never considered standing out a good thing.'
" 'The little f-' Declan stops himself."
'Back then, I felt like my heart was floating out of my chest and for a few seconds I swear I could hear bluebirds singing, like something out of a Disney movie'
'She'll be in our hearts for ever. But you can't let it ruin the rest of your lifer. Of our life. I know it hurts, believe me . But hiding away like this isn't going to solve anything, pet.'
'What's the point if we don't care enough for those we love to fight for them?'
'Wrinkles are good, Dora. The more you have, the more you have lived. May we all live to have many, many wrinkles.'
"You have to stop trying to control everything...Life's messy, Mum used to say that, remember? Stop trying to do the right thing the whole time. Sometimes the wrong thing is the right thing."
"I want you to savour every day, Pandora, even the bad ones. Wake up happy to be alive. Find work that you love and throw yourself at it...Find a man who makes your heart sing when he walks into a room, who makes you feel, who sets your soul on fire. Do not settle for anything less...Reach for the stars, my darling, in all things, most especially in love."
'Oh, don't just stand there, girl, life is short. Go!'
I found it a nice light read. Which doesn't sound right to say, since it deals with such heavy topics and all of Pandora's hardships. Sarah Webb could have made this a very sad story had she wanted to! I did still cry towards the end of this novel.
I would love if there was a follow on to this. Or even from Oliviers p.o.v. for the last 10 years! I haven't read the Shoestring Club so I will have to pick it up sometime. Although I didn't really warm to Jule's character. I hoped I wasn't missing any background information by just reading The Memory Box. This book has the prettiest cover ever!
Quotes:
'However much it breaks my heart to remember, Iris will have her memory box.'
'Plaster a smile on your face and get out there and do whatever it is that you love to do the best.'
'Be happy, my darling. Savour every day on this wonderful earth and know that I will carry you and Boolie with me, always and for ever.'
'... and I'm proud of her. It hasn't been easy, especially not in Ireland where people tend to look at you funny if you order a soft drink.'
" 'But she's leaving her babies all alone in the world,' I sob. (Charlotte's Web)"
'Until I met Olivier I'd never considered standing out a good thing.'
" 'The little f-' Declan stops himself."
'Back then, I felt like my heart was floating out of my chest and for a few seconds I swear I could hear bluebirds singing, like something out of a Disney movie'
'She'll be in our hearts for ever. But you can't let it ruin the rest of your lifer. Of our life. I know it hurts, believe me . But hiding away like this isn't going to solve anything, pet.'
'What's the point if we don't care enough for those we love to fight for them?'
'Wrinkles are good, Dora. The more you have, the more you have lived. May we all live to have many, many wrinkles.'
"You have to stop trying to control everything...Life's messy, Mum used to say that, remember? Stop trying to do the right thing the whole time. Sometimes the wrong thing is the right thing."
"I want you to savour every day, Pandora, even the bad ones. Wake up happy to be alive. Find work that you love and throw yourself at it...Find a man who makes your heart sing when he walks into a room, who makes you feel, who sets your soul on fire. Do not settle for anything less...Reach for the stars, my darling, in all things, most especially in love."
'Oh, don't just stand there, girl, life is short. Go!'
September 12, 2013
A story encompassing the power of first love, The Memory Box follows Pandora Schuster at a difficult point in her life. On the cusp of turning thirty, she is tested for a hereditary family illness. This eye-opening process prompts Pandora to search for her ex-boyfriend and the father of her child, the deliciously named Frenchman Olivier Huppert. On a trip to Paris with her girl-friends, Pandora seeks Olivier but things do not turn out as she had hoped. With a heavy heart and the knowledge that her daughter will never know her father she begins to collate the memories of their relationship. Pandora's box stirs up emotions that challenge her and cause her to reassess her current life.
I found The Memory Box to be an easy read without being completely frivolous. Touching on cancer, bereavement, lost love, financial hardship and stepfamilies, there are a lot of women who will be able to relate to the many aspects of life conveyed in this book. Personally, I was especially affected by the emotionally charged letters throughout The Memory Box and that was where my eyes welled up with tears (although I managed to escape the snot bubbles, thankfully).
I did feel that Pandora's daughter, Iris, was portrayed as being much younger than her nine years. That was the only thing that really irked me about the book as I thought she came across as being much younger and I didn't find her a very believable character. However, I thought Pandora was real and likeable and I developed a bit of a literary crush on the idea of Olivier through Pandora's memories of him. Overall, I found the friendships, family complexities and especially the romance in The Memory Box engaging and would recommend it to fans of Cecelia Ahern, Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes.
I found The Memory Box to be an easy read without being completely frivolous. Touching on cancer, bereavement, lost love, financial hardship and stepfamilies, there are a lot of women who will be able to relate to the many aspects of life conveyed in this book. Personally, I was especially affected by the emotionally charged letters throughout The Memory Box and that was where my eyes welled up with tears (although I managed to escape the snot bubbles, thankfully).
I did feel that Pandora's daughter, Iris, was portrayed as being much younger than her nine years. That was the only thing that really irked me about the book as I thought she came across as being much younger and I didn't find her a very believable character. However, I thought Pandora was real and likeable and I developed a bit of a literary crush on the idea of Olivier through Pandora's memories of him. Overall, I found the friendships, family complexities and especially the romance in The Memory Box engaging and would recommend it to fans of Cecelia Ahern, Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes.
January 25, 2014
I thought this book was going to be fluffy and predictable with the main character being named Pandora and the title of the book called The Memory Box, but I was pleasantly surprised.
The story follows Pandora Schuster as she turns 30. Bringing the past to the future, dealing with being tested for the BRCA1 gene after her mother passed away after suffering from breast cancer when Pandora was a child. She also has a nine year old daughter and is agonising with the idea of Olivier, the father,being part of her daughter'a life. Then there is Declan, Pandora's boyfriend, with his own life troubles in the mix. It's no wonder Pandora doesn't know which way to turn.
With so many themes in this book it would have been easy to think there is too much going on to be an easy read. I was wrong. Sarah Webb has created characters that the reader can relate to allowing the story to flow without it being complicated to read. The book is full of love for family and friends. It draws the reader in as I felt sympathy for Pandora as she tries to work everything out. I even felt sorry for poor Declan!
It is well written and I couldn't put it down. Whilst I would class it as an easy chic lit read it is not as fluffy as a normal easy read you can pick up. I loved it! It's a must read for those who love chic lit. Congratulations Sarah! I cannot wait for the next book.
Www.reviewedbyfran.wordpress.com
The story follows Pandora Schuster as she turns 30. Bringing the past to the future, dealing with being tested for the BRCA1 gene after her mother passed away after suffering from breast cancer when Pandora was a child. She also has a nine year old daughter and is agonising with the idea of Olivier, the father,being part of her daughter'a life. Then there is Declan, Pandora's boyfriend, with his own life troubles in the mix. It's no wonder Pandora doesn't know which way to turn.
With so many themes in this book it would have been easy to think there is too much going on to be an easy read. I was wrong. Sarah Webb has created characters that the reader can relate to allowing the story to flow without it being complicated to read. The book is full of love for family and friends. It draws the reader in as I felt sympathy for Pandora as she tries to work everything out. I even felt sorry for poor Declan!
It is well written and I couldn't put it down. Whilst I would class it as an easy chic lit read it is not as fluffy as a normal easy read you can pick up. I loved it! It's a must read for those who love chic lit. Congratulations Sarah! I cannot wait for the next book.
Www.reviewedbyfran.wordpress.com
November 4, 2013
I thought this book was going to be really predicable, the title ‘The Memory Box’ and the lead character’s name, Pandora, seemed like a slight giveaway, but I was fooled! The story is much more complex, detailing Pandora’s heartfelt decision to leave Paris all those years ago and whether to drag the past to the present for the sake of her daughter, Iris. Not only has Pandora got to assess her own life and the choices she made but she also seems to be caught up in everyone else’s problems too.
Pandora is a kind and caring character, the type of person people take for granted and she has to put up with a lot of nonsense from Declan’s ex wife -personally I would be scratching the ex’s eyes out but Pandora handles the issues with grace, which makes her a really likable character that you root for. The chemistry between the characters is very clear, especially the relationship between Pandora and Olivier’s mother, Bibi, as they don’t always see eye-to-eye!
I loved every twist and turn of this story and really enjoyed following Pandora’s journey. Have a couple of tissues on standby though as you’ll find you can’t help but shed a tear or two!
Reviewed by Francesca Verbeeten on behalf of BestChickLit.com
Pandora is a kind and caring character, the type of person people take for granted and she has to put up with a lot of nonsense from Declan’s ex wife -personally I would be scratching the ex’s eyes out but Pandora handles the issues with grace, which makes her a really likable character that you root for. The chemistry between the characters is very clear, especially the relationship between Pandora and Olivier’s mother, Bibi, as they don’t always see eye-to-eye!
I loved every twist and turn of this story and really enjoyed following Pandora’s journey. Have a couple of tissues on standby though as you’ll find you can’t help but shed a tear or two!
Reviewed by Francesca Verbeeten on behalf of BestChickLit.com
December 10, 2013
Firstly, thank you to first reads from where I won a copy of this book. Secondly, this book was absolutely amazing. I loved everything about it. The characters were just perfect. I must say I was quite drawn to Bird. I mean who wouldn't want a feisty grandmother like Bird. Pandora's journey through some very difficult times was very touching. Faced with the possibility of having the BRCA1 breast cancer gene Pandora decides to go in search of her first true love, Olivier. He just happens to be father to her 9 year old daughter Iris of whom he has no idea she even exists. Will he or will he not accept what Pandora has to tell him or will he turn away from her and the daughter he doesn't know? The need to have this question answered kept me enthralled with this book. The other characters also have their own stories within the book. There's Pandora's sister Julia, who really pushes the limits of sisterly love when it comes to forcing Olivier to see the truth & make him decide what to do. We have Declan, Pandora's current boyfriend. Along with his Daughter Rachel & ex-wife Jessica which makes for an interesting part of the story. I give this book two thumbs up!!!!!
November 12, 2013
When I entered this contest in the Goodreads giveaway I desperately wanted to read this book. Must have been because I recently returned from Dublin and wanted to relive the experience. I was very happy to have won this novel.
A perfectly lovely story featuring the mysterious, control freakish, forever in hiding (even to herself) Pandora. The moral of story is that in order to live life fully you cannot hide from yourself, isolate yourself from the ones you love and whom love you back, nor can you live your life in fear. Lovely flawed younger characters supported by older and so much wiser sages. The only flaw this book has is that I really did want to re-experience the joy that is Ireland and frankly it didn't feel like an Irish setting or even an Irish tale. Pity, that! It would have made the story that much more enjoyable if there was a little more description to tie it in with the supposed setting.
A perfectly lovely story featuring the mysterious, control freakish, forever in hiding (even to herself) Pandora. The moral of story is that in order to live life fully you cannot hide from yourself, isolate yourself from the ones you love and whom love you back, nor can you live your life in fear. Lovely flawed younger characters supported by older and so much wiser sages. The only flaw this book has is that I really did want to re-experience the joy that is Ireland and frankly it didn't feel like an Irish setting or even an Irish tale. Pity, that! It would have made the story that much more enjoyable if there was a little more description to tie it in with the supposed setting.
January 15, 2015
I really like this book because it is an girly story that i think every girl would love to read. The story is about a young mother who is a single mom. She just found out that her mother have cancer and she wanted to get a check up just to make sue that she doesn't have cancer. The doctor that she went to , to get the check up at is also her mother best friend and the person that try to help her when she was still alive. At this point she doesn't know if she have it or not so she just want to make sure that if she have it there is somebody to take care of her daughter.
So she went back to the place that she first met him ( the kid father) which is Paris...
I really enjoy the book cause all girls love a good love story that have a good ending. Because we all believe that one day we will also have our happy ending. As they all say " i been waiting for this moment my inter life"
So she went back to the place that she first met him ( the kid father) which is Paris...
I really enjoy the book cause all girls love a good love story that have a good ending. Because we all believe that one day we will also have our happy ending. As they all say " i been waiting for this moment my inter life"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2013
This is the first Sarah Webb book I have read. Was a great book it is. It about a woman named Pandora who has just turned 30. her mother died of Breast cancer. Her mothers friend who is a doctor that helped her mother contacted her to tell her that her mother had a hereditary cancer gene and she may have it too. The story is also about her daughter iris and a shop that she has in Dublin called the Shoestring club. This is a great read I couldn't put it down. I would highly recommend.
August 11, 2016
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
This book was a lovely gentle book, that made me smile. It dealt with several challenging life situations in a very sensitive way, from single parenthood, tradgedy, illness and love.
I just loved the characters and how their lives intertwined. The author really made you understand the complexities of each character and their background.
It was a pleasure to read and I would recommend it.
This book was a lovely gentle book, that made me smile. It dealt with several challenging life situations in a very sensitive way, from single parenthood, tradgedy, illness and love.
I just loved the characters and how their lives intertwined. The author really made you understand the complexities of each character and their background.
It was a pleasure to read and I would recommend it.
April 21, 2020
Liked the cover, liked the blurb and as my husband carries this gene (along with his late mother, sister and niece) I thought it would be right up my street. However I got waylaid by the Shoestring shop and friendship with the couple who lost their toddler. It was very predictable and adding in these extra characters did nothing for it at all. At least the ending was happy even though we knew what was going to happen all along.
December 8, 2013
This book is interesting, but Pandora sometimes annoys me. I love chick lit novels, but the relationship between Olivier and Pandora is just unrealistic beyond comprehension. Maybe, I'm just partial to Declan.
March 5, 2015
I heard a lot of good things about this book before I bought and they all were spot on. I loved the premise of this book, a box with objects and the memories associated with them. This book runs deep, great read.
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