3 New Books About Perfect Families That Aren’t So Perfect
Sep 24, 2017
Skeletons in the closet aren’t just for Halloween. Perfection is seductive, but it’s fleeting: It seems like we can’t go a day without a fave proving him or herself to be deeply problematic. While this is upsetting in a real-life situation, in fiction it can turn a regular story into a must-read. The three new novels in this week’s book club all feature families that threaten to self-destruct over secrets and tragedies that come to light.
<em>Best Day Ever</em>
Skeletons often hide behind a perfect veneer, and the title of this book is definitely an ironic one, as it applies to “perfect couple” Paul and Mia Strom. On the surface, things look great: They have a long-term marriage, two boys, and a big house in a nice suburb. Mia is a beautiful housewife (okay, she’s been sick, but she’s starting to feel better) and Paul makes a good salary. Now the boys are with a babysitter and Paul is driving Mia out for a lovely weekend at their lake house. Everything is under control… Paul’s control. The best day ever, it turns out, is only “best” by Paul’s definition, and things have to be pretty specific to meet his approval.
<em>Risking It All</em>
Acclaimed author Darnton’s recent volume charts a couple on the rocks after years of inability to conceive a child. New Yorkers Jeff and Marcia Naiman try absolutely every tool in the pregnancy arsenal, but nothing works, not even the two IVF procedures that drain their savings. Marcia becomes desperate; despite her great job and solid marriage, a child means everything to her. Though Jeff believes they can be a happy family as a couple, she won’t put the issue to rest.
<em>The Best Kind of People</em>
George Woodbury is a “man of distinction” in his community. A science teacher at Avalon Hills prep school, he once famously managed to tackle a man who stalked the hallways with a rifle, stopping a potential school shooting. The media attention died down in the following decade, but the accolades didn’t; a perennial “Teacher of the Year,” he has a perfect life and family. His loving wife, named Joan, is a talented nurse; his son Andrew is a successful lawyer, and his daughter Sadie is smart and popular. You may be able to guess what happens next: On Sadie’s 17th birthday, George is suddenly charged with sexual misconduct by several female students at her high school, and their world explodes.
