Genre: Domestic Fiction
Three and a half stars: * * * 1/2
There was a lot of hype around this book, the author's debut novel, at the tail end of last year and I have been eagerly awaiting its publication. I was intrigued by the synopsis and I love the cover design. This book is an exploration of the connection between a mother and child but also the connection between husband and wife, in the wake of parenthood. It's quite a stark story that left me wondering about all the things unsaid between the characters. The premise is a great story hook, especially when you come to understand the double entendre of the title.
Synopsis
Blythe Connor is determined that she will be the warm, comforting mother to her new baby Violet that she herself never had.
But in the thick of motherhood’s exhausting early days, Blythe becomes convinced that something is wrong with her daughter–she doesn’t behave like most children do.
Or is it all in Blythe’s head? Her husband, Fox, says she’s imagining things. The more Fox dismisses her fears, the more Blythe begins to question her own sanity, and the more we begin to question what Blythe is telling us about her life as well.
Then their son Sam is born–and with him, Blythe has the blissful connection she’d always imagined with her child. Even Violet seems to love her little brother. But when life as they know it is changed in an instant, the devastating fall-out forces Blythe to face the truth.
As given on author's website.
My thoughts
I thought this was a great story and the book is certainly a page-turner. I wasn't sure whether I was angry at Blythe, sad for her or indifferent sometimes. Her concerns about her daughter's behaviour seemingly valid but at the same time, little reflection on her own behaviour. And despite a great initial relationship with her husband, Fox, a disconnect between them in addressing any concerns on their daughter. Perhaps this confusion was part of the author's ploy to disorientate the reader and certainly made for one of a few interesting twists at the end.
The writing is a little choppy at times but all in all the story was very compelling. The main feeling I had from this book was the sentiment of a very sad story of lost connections and relationships on many levels. It may be a little raw for some who have recently entered parenthood or who struggle with difficult storylines so bear that in mind before picking it up to read.
About the author
Ashley Audrain previously worked as the publicity director of Penguin Books Canada. Prior to Penguin, she worked in public relations. She is a graduate of the Media, Information & Technoculture program at Western University. She lives in Toronto, where she and her partner are raising their two young children. The Push is her first novel.
As given on author's website.
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