Arnold Schiller just couldn't go on anymore.  He was unemployed and depressed over the mental illness symptoms of his son, Esau, who had already spent time in psychiatric hospitals.  All of this was starting to take a toll on his marriage.  He committed suicide.

His wife, Claire, had to set aside her time to grieve due to the fact that she had two young children, Esau and Katie.  Katie, who was only six years old, knew she had to help her mother hold the family together. 

Claire's best friend, Donna, helps Claire with emotional support.  Donna's husband, a Vietnam veteran, is also having problems of his own.

This is a very moving novel that will make you shed some tears.  However, at the same time, you will also find moments that will make you laugh.  Claire and her two children tell the story in the first person.  This is a story of how a family survives when it seems all odds are against them.  The author has written this novel with compassion and provides very interesting, descriptive characters.  Marya Hornbacher shows that she is a very skilled writer.  This book is highly recommended.

REVIEWED BY NANCY EATON

DO NOT REPRINT WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE REVIEWER, NANCY EATON