Here I Am
9 years ago by
After writing about Ann Patchet’s Commonwealth, it should be of no surprise to you that I love a novel that deals with the complexity of family.
Jonathan Safran Foer’s most recent novel (albeit not that recent, it was released 2016), Here I Am, is a heartbreaking story of the fracturing of a family, a man struggling with his faith, and the seeming destruction of the world (there’s a dystopian plot line of an earthquake in Israel). But, as with all poignant modern stories with an undercurrent of Judaism, it’s all presented with a sense of humor that is at the same time hysterical, endearing and gut-wrenching. The novel is the story of the Bloch family—Jacob and Julia and their three children—undergoing change within their seemingly perfect Washington, DC life. Truth is I read this book a while ago, but when thinking about something to write about for the winter, I felt like this was the perfect book to recommend. It’s long, and perfect for reading cuddled under the covers or on the couch in front of the fire, and it’s one you’ll feel invested in early on. It’s the ideal read for when you skirt plans with friends on cold nights and are looking for something to keep you in the comfort of your own home.
Taking any other winter reading recommendations! Share your favorites in the comments!
Thanks, Emily. ‘Here I Am’ has been on my booklist for a while and will now be moved to the top!
Re. families, I’d recommend ‘The Favourite’ by S V Berlin, a really dark and funny family drama. I loved the story’s whole sibling rivalry aspect and the whole culture clash aspect between the US and UK.
https://www.fantasticfiction.com/b/s-v-berlin/favourite.htm
I will always recommend Edward St Aubyn’s Patrick Melrose series – another writer who’s just so dark and brilliantly witty:
https://www.fantasticfiction.com/s/edward-st-aubyn/patrick-melrose-trilogy.htm