Book Review: The Unfinished Journals of Elizabeth D
by
, 17-08-2012 at 16:20
(953 Views)
I finished reading a lovely book today which I'd like to recommend to you. Set in post-911 Connecticut, The Unfinished Journals of Elizabeth D is by American mum and author, Nichole Bernier, and deals with some delicate, moving issues surrounding motherhood, friendship, secrets, and loss.
The story follows Kate Spenser, who is bequeathed a trunk of her close friend's journals after her death, together with a note telling her that she will 'know what to do' with them. Kate reads them, and discovers that there is way more to her friend than she could have ever imagined, prompting her to wonder if she ever really knew Elizabeth at all. With the 911 attacks still fresh in her memory, Kate begins to question her own sense of morality and sincerity, while learning how precious and arbitrary life can be.
In many ways, The Unfinished Journals of Elizabeth D is a beautiful read, not least for its acute sense of understanding of family, friendship, and the pain associated with losing a family member. Elizabeth was mum to three children--just like I am--so the idea of dying suddenly, leaving behind my husband and kids was quite resonating for me. It is something that I couldn't bear to think about it happening, so I found it brave of the author to tackle such a difficult subject.
As for the idea of reading a friend's journals....I don't know. Would I do it? Probably, especially if I had been asked to do so as a last request. What would you do? I'd love to know what you think.
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