Schulman, Helen

Though uncomfortable and disturbing, this account of one woman’s experience of sex abuse and its consequences makes an impact. Recommended for readers of Lisa Taddeo’s Animal or Jessica Knoll’s Luckiest Girl Alive.

With vivid and realistic characterizations, Schulman (This Beautiful Life) has written a work of fiction that should be read and discussed widely. Part mystery, part thriller, and at its heart an examination of why and how women can treat each other so callously and despicably, it’s tough to set down. Ironically, it would make a tremendous movie.

Schulman, whose awards include a Pushcart Prize and a Sundance Fellowship, has written a painfully honest novel that examines with precision the delicate balancing act needed to nurture a family through these manic times. Reminiscent of Anita Shreve's Testimony and Anna Quindlen's Every Last One, this book will appeal to readers who thrive on discussing moral ambiguities. [See Prepub Alert, 1/31/11.]—Sally Bissell, Lee Cty. Lib. Syst., Ft. Myers, FL