Ann-Marie MacDonald

This was a re-read after more than 20 years. This book was, for those years, in my top three fiction reads of all time. Not sure it's still there, but I loved it all over again. Despite remembering almost every aspect of t he plot. The writing carried me through, as did the compelling characters (Mercedes is particularly well written) and the story. I also enjoyed the many cultural references that evoked so many memories (the author and I are almost the same age).

Ms. MacDonald controls revelations so that there are surprises nearly up to the end of the book. She writes in clear style, but not graphic. Her revelations are subtle until you are smacked in the fact by your own understanding.

There are so many themes here. This time, I found myself reflecting on the contract in coping mechanisms -- and consequences -- for Frances vs. Mercedes. And I'm not sure I fully understand why Frances so badly wanted a baby.

Excellent book.… (más)

This is, in my opinion, great literature. Multiple themes and storylines that the author weave together so well. Strong, completely believable characters. Truth and lies. Lies that are harmless, until they are not. Guilt and innocence -- of children, of the times. Sometimes difficult to read because of the subject matter but always provocative and insightful.

I loved the setting and got swept up in memories of my own childhood.

I loved the issues probed by the story, such as the moral cost of the space program in Canada and U.S. And especially Jack's struggle in determining whether to condemn an innocent child to prison for the greater good of national security.

Maybe a bit long...it took a while for the story to get moving; on the other hand, I got totally immersed in the time and place of the story. There is a big jump in the story from Madeleine as a child to an adult. The t transition wasn't well managed and it took me a while to care about the adult Madeleine. But overall, a great read.… (más)