Trigger Alert(view spoiler)[There is a tragic accident in the book that happens to a young child. There are also instances of rape and family violence. (hide spoiler)]
"Count the Ways" looks at a family of young parents and their three children, primarily from the mother's (Eleanor) point of view. Raised as an only child by parents who were cool towards her, Eleanor pours herself into being a loving, interested parent. Her husband Cam, in his own way, shares her enthusiasm about parenting. Although short on money, the two create an idyllic family life on an idealistic farm in New Hampshire. Theirs is a messy, busy household full of child centered activities.
Then tragedy strikes and their family is forever changed. I don't want to give the plot away, but will say that Eleanor is left feeling bitter and hurt. The author wanted to look at how people learn to forgive and let go of their grievances.
The writing is good. The characters are finely drawn. I liked how the author wrote about the times the book takes place in (1970's to 2000's). My criticism is that there is too much trauma here, spilling in all directions. The story could have been told with a lighter hand.
PBT Note: The novel would fit the "Made Me Cry" tag.
"Count the Ways" looks at a family of young parents and their three children, primarily from the mother's (Eleanor) point of view. Raised as an only child by parents who were cool towards her, Eleanor pours herself into being a loving, interested parent. Her husband Cam, in his own way, shares her enthusiasm about parenting. Although short on money, the two create an idyllic family life on an idealistic farm in New Hampshire. Theirs is a messy, busy household full of child centered activities.
Then tragedy strikes and their family is forever changed. I don't want to give the plot away, but will say that Eleanor is left feeling bitter and hurt. The author wanted to look at how people learn to forgive and let go of their grievances.
The writing is good. The characters are finely drawn. I liked how the author wrote about the times the book takes place in (1970's to 2000's). My criticism is that there is too much trauma here, spilling in all directions. The story could have been told with a lighter hand.
PBT Note: The novel would fit the "Made Me Cry" tag.