Saturday, July 26, 2008

The Condition


Jennifer Haigh (author of Baker Towers, reviewed earlier on this blog) combines two timeless elements in this multiple point-of-view story: dysfunctional families and a summerhouse. The "condition," a genetic disorder, stunts the physical growth of daughter Gwen, and the reaction of her parents and brothers stunts the rest of their lives. Covering the 1960s to present-day, the McKotch family grows up and apart and finally--after no small amount of pain--realigns in new ways. Readalikes: The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen for dysfunctional families and Wish You Were Here by Stewart O'Nan for dysfunctional families and a summerhouse. --Jenny H.


Request The Condition from the Saint Paul Public Library.

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