Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Book Review: Where'd You Go, Bernadette?


A friend asked me just the other day if I had a book recommendation. I was so sad to say that the most recent things I had read were a series of Pride and Prejudice continuing stories that I absolutely and positively could not recommend. And I had last cracked those open several months before Annabelle was born!

I don't know what it is about pregnancy and postpartum, but it took a long time for me to find the will to pick up a book during/after both my kids. Oh wait, I guess do know what it is. Exhaustion.

But that question was enough to shock me out of my postpartum reading funk to start on a list of titles I had been storing for when the time came.


First on deck: Where'd You Go, Bernadette?
by Maria Semple

Set in Seattle, this is a story about an eccentric woman who has lost the person she once was. It's narrated by her gifted 15-year-old daughter, during a pivotal time in the mother's life where she's really coming unglued. Or is she? It kept me up fairly late one night because I needed to know the ending. The author, Maria Semple, wrote for Arrested Development, and that probably tells you a lot about the humor. I found it entertaining and smartly written, albeit somewhat dark and sad at times.

There are a lot of digs on stereotypical Seattle culture: Microsoft, Subarus, helicopter parents (okay, those are everywhere,) coffee, rain, etc. There are also digs on private school parents, and parents who think their kids can do no wrong. Just a lot of satire.

While not always a light-hearted read, it was an easy read and moved along quickly for me. You know how sometimes a book is long and drawn out? This one wasn't. I think it would be a good one to pick up if you're going on a trip. Or anytime, for that matter.

So tell me, what book is hanging out on your nightstand these days? Should I add it to my list?

Click here for my past book reviews.

3 comments:

  1. i read this book while jeffrey and i were on our "baby moon" ;-)
    and i'm still....undecided on it. i had a few friends highly recommend it, so maybe i just had high expectations, but i was a little disappointed. it was an easy read, but i don't think i'd add it to my list of favorites.

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  2. This book looks like something to add to my list - thanks for sharing! And I think you would love Flywheel, it is challenging but the instructors are great about always teaching to the first time riders. Next time you are headed to Dallas and have time to try it, just let me know and I will get you all set up! I think as an IT girl you will love all of the computer packs on our bikes and how we use the data from class to help track results - the geeky chic workout. :o)

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  3. I'm reading The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James. It's definitely a longer read, but it also reminds me a bit of Jane Austen. I'm almost halfway through and hope to have a review soon!

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