How many of us can relate to the desire to just fit in somewhere, anywhere? I know I most definitely can. After being diagnosed with Lupus at age 12, shortly there-after I hit puberty and let me tell you, both of those life changes hit me hard. It is difficult enough to fit in with the prepubescent crowd as it is, but to then add on top of it this strange sounding disease and throw in a weight problem- you have one troubled teen. I sought desperately, and in some ways still do, to find that niche that felt right to me. I thought I would never find it, but now out of nowhere I have discovered this website full of fellow ˜spoonies,” who are going through everything I’ve been through and more.

I was inspired to write my first book review on this book in particular for just that reason. Lorna Landvik captures the essence of the lost person looking for a home, in this novel based on the lives of five women who come together in the early 60’s as a book club. Unheard of in that time period, this book club defied all odds of the stereotypes holding reign, as these women were not the typical housewives, standing in the kitchen with perfectly pressed aprons. Audrey, Faith, Slip, Merit, and Kari fit in only with each other and their small families intertwine to become one large, loving bunch that overcome many hurdles together.
They each hold their own, in this eclectic group, and the story spans the years from the early 60’s to the late 90’s. These women come together each month to review the book chosen by that particular month’s host, meeting at theme parties held at the hosts home. They review everything from guides to better sex, to books on politics and war. As the years pass they endure war, domestic violence, illness, and issues of sexuality. Through it all, they all understand that in the chaos that life throws at each of us, we all have a place to fit in, we just have to find it. All of them are unique in their own way, and each have a strong story to tell. Any person could relate to at least one character in this book. It will draw you back to an era when everyone searched for peace in their own way (legal or otherwise!), but most found it in the last place they expected it- home. The women of Freesia Court and their children and families will definitely tug on your heart strings. While reading this book, I found myself laughing and crying, but also yelling when things just didn’t sit right with me. Be prepared for a few tears to fall and to feel as if you have made five new best friends by the last page!
At the end of the book you will also find a list of questions for those wanting to start a book club and a question and answer section by the author. It offers a deeper insight into the book and into the author herself and is well worth the money as a good thought provoker.
Book Review Submitted by: Jessica Girardo , Butyoudontlooksick.com, © 2006

Paperback: 432 pages
Author:Lorna Landvik
Publisher: Ballantine Books; Reprint edition (February 3, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN: 0345442822