From the Bookshelf of Tyler Public Library…

[close] Suzette Kendall, a brilliant heart surgeon, has never wanted children; fearful of the mental illness that runs in her family. However, after 15 years of marriage, her husband, Hyland has decided he really wants a baby. They search and find Dorrie, a young and willing surrogate, who has been accepted to Rice University, but can’t attend without funds. The money from the surrogacy will allow her to attend college, but Dorrie decides she can’t give up the baby. This is a story of family, a mother’s love and sacrifice, and the lengths we will go to for our children. The Nearness of You is told from the varying perspectives of the two mothers and of the child, Eloise. Ward’s novel deals with tough, contemporary social issues: child neglect, drug use, prostitution, PTSD, suicide, and surrogacy, all the while carefully presenting both sides of the issue in measured and precise writing. Absolutely unputdownable. If you haven’t read Ward before you are missing out. Highly recommended for fans of Jodi Picoult.