Title: The Art of Mending Author: Elizabeth Berg type of book: Fiction call number: Fic

This book is strong in character and story.

Summary:
"There's one in every family." In Laura's family, it's her "difficult" sister Caroline. Now Caroline wants to have a sibling meeting when they all return home for their yearly visit to the Minnesota State Fair. She hints at childhood abuse that is nothing like Laura or her brother remember . . . or want to think about. Laura's struggle to cope with old family secrets, the demands of her mother and sister, and the needs of her own husband and teenagers seems all too real. Laura is a professional quilt maker -- hence the double meaning of the title.

I would recommend this book!

Why?
One reviewer says that "although Freud didn't know what women want, Elizabeth Berg has it figured out." Laura's trials are easier because of a strong support system in her husband and in her best girlfriend -- stock supporting characters but those we all wish we had.

Employee Initials: SB Review Date: May 2004

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