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Book Review of Love and Other Impossible Pursuits

Love and Other Impossible Pursuits
sarahinme avatar reviewed on + 58 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3


Waldman has written an excellent book about loss that truly shows the effect losing a child has on the mother, as well as those around her. This ripple effect of Emilia's grief is so profound and yet presented so subtly, you really do not get the fully effect right away. It is a slow-burn, a creeping anguish, a total shut-out to all those who may be grieving with her.

It is heart-wrenching, but not sappy and whiny. It is purely a reflection on loss and grief, and was quite intriguing. I would hesitate to bring this book to anyone who has lost a young child unless you talk about it before it. Wonderfully written, and I am very excited to start another Ayelet Waldman book, Red Hook Road.