Before everything

Once I adapted to the multi-narrator scattered style of writing, I got into the story of a dying woman surrounded by friends and family trying to hold on to her. My reaction was mixed as powerful scenes were tempered by others that seemed implausible.

A poetic, moving portrayal of lifelong friendships, and the very different ways that new and old friendships contribute to a full, rich life. The novel is structured as a nonchronological series of vignettes, which capture moments both mundane and profound.

3.5 End of life story about women, their close friendships, and how they endure right to the end.