4.5 stars
Not your typical "angst in the suburbs" book. Ng peels back the layers on these characters and gives the reader much to ponder. A great choice for book clubs! ( )

This is one of those books that I always saw, but never did read the plot carefully to see if I really wanted to read it plus I always have too many books that I want to read to add another one. When I found it in my Little Free Library, I said here's my chance before someone else grabbed it.

Very interesting book with three plots going on at the same time. It took a while to get to the crux of the book (almost half way through). I liked the Richardson family with their stair step kids all in high school but Izzy was a world apart from her siblings. Always angry, stating her point of view mostly in anger. I didn't like the way that their parents treated her. I'm thinking maybe because she was premature her mother was over protective. Doubtful in my opinion.

I didn't like the way that Mrs. Richardson (and why were they called that throughout the book except once in a while Elena and Bill) treated her tenant Mia and her daughter Pearl who fit into their life well with the kids so close in age to her, like they were vagabonds (even though they practically were) and looking into Mia's life. Shouldn't she have done that before they moved in?

The open ending didn't do it for me. I wanted to know what happened in the future with everyone. ( )

I listened to this book during the pandemic quarantine. It was enjoyable to listen to during long walks in my neighborhood.
This book beautifully blends several themes: the meaning of motherhood, racism and microaggression, art and the creative process, families and the power of secrets, teen- age angst, non- conformity, and suburban living.
The author creates vivid and believable characters. By the way, I despise Elena Richardson, but in the end, I had compassion for her plight!
This book makes the reader think. During the courtroom scene, the characters talk about books and childrens' dolls as mirrors and as a parent and teacher, I could not agree more.
I am definitely putting other books by Celeste Ng on my reading list. ( )

A nice book, a well-rounded story, well written. I read this book at a leisurely pace and while for me, it was not a page-turner, I was interested in every page. I would recommend this book and will try Ms. Ng's other writings. ( )

Wow...just one of those beautifully written stories that will just stay with you for a long time to come. The ending brought tears to my eyes and I was sad to say goodbye when I finished that last page. Great book! ( )