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abaighritz 's review for:
Spectacular Things
by Beck Dorey-Stein
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This novel is a heartfelt read that will especially resonate with anyone who grew up playing soccer or has a deep love for the U.S. Women's National Team. (There’s also a touch of Gilmore Girls energy for those who appreciate that dynamic—though I didn’t watch it myself.)
The story follows a young, single mother who relocates to Maine with her daughter, later giving birth to another. The two sisters grow up immersed in soccer and the everyday challenges of a single-parent household. When their mother dies, they’re forced to navigate not only their grief, but also the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, as they attempt to redefine their relationship and their sense of identity.
Dramatic and emotionally layered, the book explores love, heartbreak, career struggles, and infertility. The narrative moves at a brisk pace with short, compelling chapters that make it easy to fall into the “just one more” trap. A moving and accessible story about family, resilience, and finding your way through loss.
The story follows a young, single mother who relocates to Maine with her daughter, later giving birth to another. The two sisters grow up immersed in soccer and the everyday challenges of a single-parent household. When their mother dies, they’re forced to navigate not only their grief, but also the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, as they attempt to redefine their relationship and their sense of identity.
Dramatic and emotionally layered, the book explores love, heartbreak, career struggles, and infertility. The narrative moves at a brisk pace with short, compelling chapters that make it easy to fall into the “just one more” trap. A moving and accessible story about family, resilience, and finding your way through loss.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Death of parent
Moderate: Infertility