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I have read a few Jennifer Weiner books and have really enjoyed them. When I started this one I wasn't quite sure I would relate much to the characters and story. There is a lot revolving around the daughter's bat mitzvah and the family's Jewish faith and Cannie is older, a mom, married...I just thought I wouldn't get into it. Then I realized the alternating chapters are written from the 12 yr old daughter's perspective and I actually groaned. BUT I gave it a chance and within just a few chapters I was hooked. Which I think says a lot about Weiner's writing. The story is touching, funny and thoughtful. Also the daughter's chapters, which at first turned me off, actually ended up kind of fun and making me feel like I was reading a YA book at the same time. In fact I think Weiner should maybe try her hand at the genre. Right towards the end ...just when things are coming together and problems are getting resolved we're all thrown for a loop and initially I was angry about this. In the end though I still enjoyed the story and it gave me a welcome distraction from my own problems. It's kind of refreshing sometimes to cry over some fictional person's problems isn't it?! A good read especially if you liked Good In Bed.
I love the character of Cannie Sharpo. I definantly understand her character from Good in Bed, but there is something about how she has changed that I can no longer relate to in this book.
I read this in one day, but that doesn't necessarily mean I loved this book. I didn't find out until I went to post this review that this book is the second in a series. That being said I had no idea and had no problem following the storyline.
The story follows Cannie and her daughter, Joy, as they try to come to terms with Joy growing up. The alternating chapters really help illustrate the gap between mother and daughter. As Joy prepares for adulthood (she's thirteen), her mom wants to put her life on hold and keep her young forever. Witty, funny, this story emphasizes the complexities of mother and daughter relationships and the strength and understanding needed to stay sane.
Overall, this was alright but not earth shattering. Good read for those that like chick lit.
The story follows Cannie and her daughter, Joy, as they try to come to terms with Joy growing up. The alternating chapters really help illustrate the gap between mother and daughter. As Joy prepares for adulthood (she's thirteen), her mom wants to put her life on hold and keep her young forever. Witty, funny, this story emphasizes the complexities of mother and daughter relationships and the strength and understanding needed to stay sane.
Overall, this was alright but not earth shattering. Good read for those that like chick lit.
"Jennifer always keeps you laughing! You must read all her books!"
I liked this even more than Good in Bed, its prequel.
Boy, does that Jennifer Weiner know how to write! I didn't like one of the plot twists though. I need to go back and read "Good in Bed" now.
Thanks to my dear Victor, I got this as an advance copy. Sequel to "Good in Bed." I couldn't stop reading it, very much recommend it.
Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner
Have enjoyed the author's other works and I bought the paperback and will listen to this on tape.
Alternating chapters of a Philadelphia housewife and her daughter's point of view in her own chapters.
Canny writes of her life, fantasies and knits at her daughters Joy dance lessons. She finds the story of her life from her mother.
Peter, her husband wants more kids. Such a diversified set of characters between the age groups and life styles.
Teen years are hard for the new generation and new rules.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).
Have enjoyed the author's other works and I bought the paperback and will listen to this on tape.
Alternating chapters of a Philadelphia housewife and her daughter's point of view in her own chapters.
Canny writes of her life, fantasies and knits at her daughters Joy dance lessons. She finds the story of her life from her mother.
Peter, her husband wants more kids. Such a diversified set of characters between the age groups and life styles.
Teen years are hard for the new generation and new rules.
I received this book from National Library Service for my BARD (Braille Audio Reading Device).
I like the author, but this book was a struggle to get through. The chapters bounce between a mother and daughter, dealing with various family issues. The mother character, Candace, is one that Weiner has written about in a previous novel and in short stories. I like the character, but something about this story fell flat for me. It did pick up in the last fifty pages of so, when the major climax hit. It also rang true as far as mother/daughter relationships.
A light read that I enjoyed just as much as the other Jennifer Weiner books. The narrative switches back and forth between an overprotective mother and her rebelling almost 13 year old daughter as they navigate the landmines of the mother's past.