A review by annielove2read
The Whole Thing Together by Ann Brashares

3.0

This book was tricky to rate, as I mostly enjoyed reading it, but then felt kind of let down by it. It didn't go the direction I thought it would, and felt like it wasn't as good as it could have been. Yes, this book had a lot of characters to keep track of, but they were all their own person and part of the charm of this complex family, so it wasn't too hard to keep track of everyone. (However, there were some half-siblings mentioned but nothing ever became of them, so they weren't entirely necessary, in my opinion.) The bits of humor between the two main characters and how they were sharing one job were my favorite parts of the book. I enjoyed Quinn and her spiritual, hippie vibe. I also enjoyed the subplot of Mattie flirting with the handsome farmer. It just felt like nothing was really resolved though. The big blow up between the parents finally happens, but it's quick and everyone retreats rather than really digging in. There's a big climax, and then, it's just over. If you're looking for another Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, this isn't it.