_The Middlesteins_ by Jami Attenberg
Another novel edited by my editor friend and this one was so interesting.
The Middlesteins are a family that is trying to survive despite a strong, overbearing and self-destructive central figure who has greatly affected everyone in the family in different ways. They become a typically dysfunctional middle-class Jewish American family.
I felt as if there was a bit of British humor to it, but at the same time the Jewish element was also clear even though I do not have a full understanding of that element. Also, the story feels as if it is from the past, but at the same time could be your neighbor in suburban America. Also, I kind of related to Edith’s (or Edie) need to eat to feel the love that she so longs for, but she doesn’t realize that the people around her want to love her if she could let them.
It was not a particularly uplifting story, but it was realistic and entertaining. It has similar tones as Rhoda Janzen’s books, but as fiction. So, I recommend it as quality contemporary fiction. π
**This finally updates my books from the summer to now. I’ve got one more book I have just finished to write on and then I guess I shall have to decide what to read next… :D**
-T
