This is one of those books that I feel like I've seen in the sidelines. I've glanced at it on bookshelves, I vaguely remember reading about it and have seen it mentioned on a few 'best of..' book lists, but I know NO one who has read it yet.
It is the story of Tassie Keltjin, a midwestern farm girl in her first year of college just after 9/11 happened. She's never been to a big city or eaten Chinese food but life at her small liberal arts college is a freeing experience.
She takes a job as a nanny for a middle aged childless couple waiting to adopt. They bring home Mary Emma, a bi-racial child, whom Tassie instantly bonds with. The story of this disfunctional couple's life (and former life) is Tassie's entry into a world of deceit, lies and heartbreaking truths.
For Moore, the story is in the hearts of her characters. Quoting the Times (mostly flattering) review: And most memorably, .., mapping their fears and disappointments, their hidden yearnings and their more evanescent efforts to hold on to their dreams in the face of unfurling misfortune.
The terrible and tragic secret revealed about 3/4 of the way through will stay with me for a long time to come... This one is another good read, but not an easy one to be sure.
Lucy - Thanks for this review. I have the book in my to-be-read pile, after reading the rave reviews in the Times. I'm curious to know if you or anyone else read her previous books, as this was supposed to be, for her fans, a long-awaited return to print.
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