Lori M. (lormac) reviewed on 3/30/2011 + 120 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

I know that there was some doubt as to whether I would like this book, but I actually did like it. I did not LOVE it, but I would recommend it. The story is about Rose, who develops the ability to experience the feelings of other people through what they cook/make, and how that impacts her life, and also what she finds out about her family during her struggle with her 'skill.' What I liked about this book: (1) The depiction of Rose's reaction to her 'skill' is very real and understandable to the reader. How Rose deals with this at age nine is very different than how she feels about it at age 22. (2) The relationships between the people in Rose's family is very well drawn. Each character becomes a complete individual, and the ways they deal with each other ring true, even if they are not always admirable. (3) The author has a gift for describing things, like the way the streetlight reflects into a house, or the distinctive tilt of someone's head, which makes the book a richer experience. What I did not like about the book: (1) I could imagine a link between Rose's skill and Joseph's actions. It seemed to me that the author was hinting that Joseph also had a special skill, and it overwhelmed him. I do not understand why she could not have been more explicit in making sure the reader understood Joseph better. I am left not knowing if Joseph did have a 'skill' or if he was just overly sensitive to life, or if he was a genius who was able to figure out a way to transform matter. (2) I think the rules of Rose's 'skill' were a little confusing. Why was the constant sadness of one cook more tolerable to Rose than her mother's sadness? What does the location of a farm have anything to do with feelings? Why wouldn't she be able to eat her own cooking if she did it on a regular basis? This book hasd elements of fantasy, but unlike "Her Fearful Symmetry" the characters make logical decisions when faced with their unusual circumstances and are consistent throughout the book.

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