What do you think?
Rate this book
The Language of Sisters
Ten years after leaving her troubled family behind, unable to cope with life with a disabled sister, Nicole Hunter is drawn back home by tragedy to care for her pregnant sister and to mend her estranged relationship with her mother. Original.
278 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2002
90 people are currently reading
2142 people want to read
About the author
Amy Hatvany
16 books1,004 followersAmy Hatvany was born in Seattle, WA in 1972, the youngest of three children. She graduated from Western Washington University in 1994 with a degree in Sociology only to discover most sociologists are unemployed. Soon followed a variety of jobs – some of which she loved, like decorating wedding cakes; others which she merely tolerated, like receptionist. In 1998, Amy finally decided to sell her car, quit her job, and take a chance on writing books.
The literary gods took kindly to her aspirations and THE KIND OF LOVE THAT SAVES YOU was published in 2000 by Bantam Doubleday. THE LANGUAGE OF SISTERS was picked up by NAL in 2002. (Both titles published under "Yurk.")
Amy spends most of her time today with her second and final husband, Stephan. (Seriously, if this one doesn’t work out, she’s done.) She stays busy with her two children, Scarlett and Miles, and her “bonus child,” Anna. Their blended family also includes two four-legged hairy children, commonly known as Black Lab mutts, Kenda and Dolcé. When Amy’s not with friends or family, she is most likely reading, cooking or zoning out on certain reality television shows. Top Chef is a current favorite. She eagerly awaits auditions for the cast of “Top Author.” (“Quick Edit” instead of “Quick Fire” Challenge? C’mon, producers! That’s gripping television!)
The literary gods took kindly to her aspirations and THE KIND OF LOVE THAT SAVES YOU was published in 2000 by Bantam Doubleday. THE LANGUAGE OF SISTERS was picked up by NAL in 2002. (Both titles published under "Yurk.")
Amy spends most of her time today with her second and final husband, Stephan. (Seriously, if this one doesn’t work out, she’s done.) She stays busy with her two children, Scarlett and Miles, and her “bonus child,” Anna. Their blended family also includes two four-legged hairy children, commonly known as Black Lab mutts, Kenda and Dolcé. When Amy’s not with friends or family, she is most likely reading, cooking or zoning out on certain reality television shows. Top Chef is a current favorite. She eagerly awaits auditions for the cast of “Top Author.” (“Quick Edit” instead of “Quick Fire” Challenge? C’mon, producers! That’s gripping television!)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
March 26, 2017
Language of Sisters was incredible! I read the e-book on a flight in two days and hated when the flight attendant instructed to close the electronics, as could not wait to dive back in on next flight connection.
Having read all of Amy Hatvany’s books, each 5-Star+ quality. I love her style of writing; she is not afraid to tackle controversial and social issues
A story of two sisters and their incredible bond and love connection. Amy has great insight into RS (and other disabilities), as at the end of the book described this as her inspiration for this work of fiction with her own sister’s care.
Always enjoy her humor, wit, and banter of dialogue. Wow, would I love to have a best friend like the friendship Nichole had with her best friend from childhood? How incredible!
Without giving away the book—sometimes we do not know what life has in store for us until we give of ourselves—then the gift of unconditional comes automatically. I also loved the characters Garrett/Lucy and would love a continuation of the wonderful cast.
A must read love this author and look forward to her next book. Would encourage you to read all her works as you will not be disappointed!
Having read all of Amy Hatvany’s books, each 5-Star+ quality. I love her style of writing; she is not afraid to tackle controversial and social issues
A story of two sisters and their incredible bond and love connection. Amy has great insight into RS (and other disabilities), as at the end of the book described this as her inspiration for this work of fiction with her own sister’s care.
Always enjoy her humor, wit, and banter of dialogue. Wow, would I love to have a best friend like the friendship Nichole had with her best friend from childhood? How incredible!
Without giving away the book—sometimes we do not know what life has in store for us until we give of ourselves—then the gift of unconditional comes automatically. I also loved the characters Garrett/Lucy and would love a continuation of the wonderful cast.
A must read love this author and look forward to her next book. Would encourage you to read all her works as you will not be disappointed!
July 6, 2016
Uma bonita história de amor entre irmãs na qual se retrata as dificuldades de tratar de alguém com necessidades especiais. Com um final feliz, como se quer neste tipo de narrativas, faz-nos pensar um pouco como seria se tivessemos de lidar com uma situação destas e a resposta sem duvida é que nunca seria fácil.
June 9, 2014
"The Language of Sisters" tells the tale of one sister who takes on the responsibility of raising her developmentally delayed sister's baby. This book surprised me in all of the best ways. The writing was poetic, genuine and downright magical. The plot was original and heartfelt. We understand the character of Jenny (the sister) as just "Jenny". Since her diagnosis is never revealed in the book, the reader does not have a label to give Jenny, and is forced to see her as a genuine person with needs and feelings. This book is realistic, and covers the challenges faced upon family members raising children and adults with disabilities, but does not exclude the love, passion and fight that the family members possess. Definitely a book I would recommend. I ran the gamut of emotions, from happiness to anger (at the Zimmerman character) and was pleasantly surprised by the succinct and satisfying ending! An author I will add to my "to read" list from now on!
April 20, 2015
Adorei este livrinho, e não estava nada à espera, pois outro que tinha lido da mesma autora ficou muito aquém das expectativas, mas este, surpreendeu-me. E é tão bom sermos assim surpreendidas.
Para começar o tema, é um pouco pesado digamos assim e autora conseguiu abordá-lo de uma forma tão simples que deixou de ser um tema tabu.
Depois o desenvolvimento. Quando chegamos a um determinado ponto em que o livro fica ainda mais intenso e depois se descobre que foi tudo um mal entendido.
Enfim, recomendo a 100%.
Para começar o tema, é um pouco pesado digamos assim e autora conseguiu abordá-lo de uma forma tão simples que deixou de ser um tema tabu.
Depois o desenvolvimento. Quando chegamos a um determinado ponto em que o livro fica ainda mais intenso e depois se descobre que foi tudo um mal entendido.
Enfim, recomendo a 100%.
December 25, 2016
É um livro doce, sobre um tema delicado, que se lê muito bem.
Faz -nos pensar que família é um laço tão forte que tudo é perdoado.
Gostei mto da Nicole e adorei ler sobre o tormento dela com o facto de ter "abandonado" a irmã.
Gostei do final.
Um livro forte e ternurento. Aconselho
Faz -nos pensar que família é um laço tão forte que tudo é perdoado.
Gostei mto da Nicole e adorei ler sobre o tormento dela com o facto de ter "abandonado" a irmã.
Gostei do final.
Um livro forte e ternurento. Aconselho
March 4, 2014
Imagine that you've found the perfect fabric and the perfect pattern, and you set out to make a dress you know you're going to love. You realize that you didn't buy enough fabric, so the unfinished dress gets stuffed back into the darkest reaches of the craft room, where it lies forgotten and unfinished. Now, that's how I felt about this book. The premise is heart-wrenching: a young woman who left home, feeling she failed as a sister, believing horrid truths about her father, returns home to stand up for her special-needs sister who's been raped by an aide in the special care home. There are so many stories-within-the-story: the father's suspected sexual abuse, the mother's passive acceptance of the abuse, the institutionalization of Jenny, the rape itself and the hunt for the suspected rapist, the pregnancy, the under-developed child in the womb, Nicole's life plans, etc. All of these stories are intricately interwoven, until the end, when it appears that we run into that missing piece of fabric. Perhaps the writer's deadline drew near. Whatever the reason, a wonderful story leaves the reader unfilled with none of the book's big questions answered and/or justified.
November 20, 2019
I am a huge fan of Amy Hatvany's writing. I somehow missed reading this novel when it first came out, but I am so glad I finally got around to it.
The Language of Sisters is an addictive read. As all of Amy's novels, it is extremely well-written. The subject matter is both interesting and complex. I could tell that Amy put a lot of love into this story, as she was basing it off of personal experience. Therefore, I could really feel Nicole's emotions and I cared so much about her and Jenny.
The only thing that didn't work so well for me was using the word "retarded" instead of "developmentally disabled." Maybe I'm just too PC for my own good, but having studied special education in college, the language became ingrained after a while.
Overall, another winner by Amy Hatvany. I am so excited to dig into her latest novel soon!
Movie casting suggestions:
Nicole: Rachel Hurd-Wood
Nova: Juno Temple
Garret: David Henrie
Shane: Steve Lund
Nicole's mother: Kristin Minter
The Language of Sisters is an addictive read. As all of Amy's novels, it is extremely well-written. The subject matter is both interesting and complex. I could tell that Amy put a lot of love into this story, as she was basing it off of personal experience. Therefore, I could really feel Nicole's emotions and I cared so much about her and Jenny.
The only thing that didn't work so well for me was using the word "retarded" instead of "developmentally disabled." Maybe I'm just too PC for my own good, but having studied special education in college, the language became ingrained after a while.
Overall, another winner by Amy Hatvany. I am so excited to dig into her latest novel soon!
Movie casting suggestions:
Nicole: Rachel Hurd-Wood
Nova: Juno Temple
Garret: David Henrie
Shane: Steve Lund
Nicole's mother: Kristin Minter
September 18, 2012
I really loved this book the author did a great job with the sisters in this book. She made the people human and complex and you loved them , it was a very interesting story, something that I am sure has happened before, I loved the sister Nicole, she lived most of her life as a secondary person, Nicole believed something that ruled how she lived her adult life. But in the end, she came full circle, made life decisions, all in all a great read.
January 12, 2020
Nicole saiu de casa há 10 anos, indo para a Califórnia, onde refez a sua vida, primeiro como psicóloga e mais recentemente como pasteleira. Um dia sente que a sua irmã mais nova, Jenny, precisa da sua ajuda e acaba por contactar a mãe e descobre que Jenny foi violada. Nicole decide regressar a casa e cuidar de Jenny, que tem distúrbio neurológico que a colocara dependente de uma cadeira de rodas e lhe retirara a capacidade da fala.
Gostei tanto desta história, tão ternurenta. A relação entre as duas irmãs, a culpa que Nicole sente por ter abandonado Jenny, o modo como cuida e defende Jenny. Como acaba por descobrir a si própria, como compreende o passado e o aceita, como se relaciona com a mãe.
Só achei o triângulo e relacionamento amoroso algo dispensável.
Uma história tão fraternal e que não nos deixa indiferentes.
Vejam a minha opinião mais detalhada em vídeo, AQUI.
Gostei tanto desta história, tão ternurenta. A relação entre as duas irmãs, a culpa que Nicole sente por ter abandonado Jenny, o modo como cuida e defende Jenny. Como acaba por descobrir a si própria, como compreende o passado e o aceita, como se relaciona com a mãe.
Só achei o triângulo e relacionamento amoroso algo dispensável.
Uma história tão fraternal e que não nos deixa indiferentes.
Vejam a minha opinião mais detalhada em vídeo, AQUI.
October 5, 2018
Gostei muito deste livro que nos relata a vivência de alguém que vive com uma irmã com distúrbio neurológicos. Muito bem escrito e com um pouco de romance pelo caminho
Não precisamos de ser prisioneiros do nosso passado!
Não precisamos de ser prisioneiros do nosso passado!
August 30, 2012
Not even halfway through reading "Best Kept Secret" (the first novel I read by Amy Hatvany), I knew I would want to devour all of her books. Was I surprised that I also loved "Outside The Lines?" Absolutely not! I’m sure you see the common thread here and can predict I will say that "The Language of Sisters" is a beautiful and stunning novel.
Ten years ago, Nicole Hunter left her troubled home behind her, unable to cope with the demands of a life with her disabled sister, Jenny. Though her search for happiness—both in career and in love—has fallen short of her dreams, Nicole pretends that all is well. Then a shattering event turns her world upside down, and suddenly, she is back in her hometown, caring for her pregnant sister and trying to heal her embattled relationship with her mother.
Reunited with her family and forced to confront the guilt that haunts her, Nicole finally has the chance to be the sister she always wished she’d been. And when she is faced with the most difficult choice of her life, Nicole rediscovers the beauty of sisterhood—and receives a special gift that will change her life forever. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)
"The Language of Sisters" is a beautifully written and powerful novel. Throughout the pages the reader experiences emotions of joy, sorrow, happiness and grief all rolled into one.
From when they were babies Nicole and Jenny’s mom always spoke of Jenny as being the “angel” or “perfect” child and Nicole was anything but. Because I’m an only child, I cannot imagine what it’s like to be considered second and always hearing praises only towards a sibling and not yourself. This constant comparing only leads to self-doubt and negativity in the child. I personally wouldn’t be able to handle it. What I can only imagine being equally as difficult was the fact that Nicole's tending to and taking care of her sister always came before playing with her friends and just being able to be a kid. You only get to be a kid once and those years are the most precious and carefree times a person has. It’s kind of like being robbed of your youth, you know? But on the flip side it made Nicole a stronger person. Perhaps if she didn’t go through these times she wouldn’t have been able to take on the challenge that she did later on in her life by returning to her childhood home.
I love how Amy portrayed and wrote Nicole as the heroine. I admire Nicole because somewhere deep down inside she realized that this shattering event was a sign to go home and work through all of the painful memories from her childhood. I’m not sure everyone could just pick up and move away from their established lives, where their job, friends and significant others are. But apparently inner callings from siblings are pretty strong and cannot be ignored. I don’t know this personally, but it’s pretty vivid in this story. I also admire how Nicole stuck to her guns even when the going got tough. Can you imagine how difficult it must be taking care of her pregnant sister with special needs? One who basically cannot do anything for herself? Several times Nicole thought to herself: “I can’t do this.” “Why did come here and decide to do this?” But as the reader sees she didn’t quit, working hard instead to try to reunite with her family.
Amy’s writing and use of words has a way that makes her characters come to life, like page pop-ups in children’s stories. Unfortunately I am not in a book club, but I can say with certainty that this would be a fantastic pick. I fell in-love with this book and couldn’t put it down. I hope you all will too!
Oh, by the way, at the end of the book there is an exclusive first look at "Heart Like Mine," Amy's next novel coming out in March 2013, which I CAN’T wait to read!
Ten years ago, Nicole Hunter left her troubled home behind her, unable to cope with the demands of a life with her disabled sister, Jenny. Though her search for happiness—both in career and in love—has fallen short of her dreams, Nicole pretends that all is well. Then a shattering event turns her world upside down, and suddenly, she is back in her hometown, caring for her pregnant sister and trying to heal her embattled relationship with her mother.
Reunited with her family and forced to confront the guilt that haunts her, Nicole finally has the chance to be the sister she always wished she’d been. And when she is faced with the most difficult choice of her life, Nicole rediscovers the beauty of sisterhood—and receives a special gift that will change her life forever. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)
"The Language of Sisters" is a beautifully written and powerful novel. Throughout the pages the reader experiences emotions of joy, sorrow, happiness and grief all rolled into one.
From when they were babies Nicole and Jenny’s mom always spoke of Jenny as being the “angel” or “perfect” child and Nicole was anything but. Because I’m an only child, I cannot imagine what it’s like to be considered second and always hearing praises only towards a sibling and not yourself. This constant comparing only leads to self-doubt and negativity in the child. I personally wouldn’t be able to handle it. What I can only imagine being equally as difficult was the fact that Nicole's tending to and taking care of her sister always came before playing with her friends and just being able to be a kid. You only get to be a kid once and those years are the most precious and carefree times a person has. It’s kind of like being robbed of your youth, you know? But on the flip side it made Nicole a stronger person. Perhaps if she didn’t go through these times she wouldn’t have been able to take on the challenge that she did later on in her life by returning to her childhood home.
I love how Amy portrayed and wrote Nicole as the heroine. I admire Nicole because somewhere deep down inside she realized that this shattering event was a sign to go home and work through all of the painful memories from her childhood. I’m not sure everyone could just pick up and move away from their established lives, where their job, friends and significant others are. But apparently inner callings from siblings are pretty strong and cannot be ignored. I don’t know this personally, but it’s pretty vivid in this story. I also admire how Nicole stuck to her guns even when the going got tough. Can you imagine how difficult it must be taking care of her pregnant sister with special needs? One who basically cannot do anything for herself? Several times Nicole thought to herself: “I can’t do this.” “Why did come here and decide to do this?” But as the reader sees she didn’t quit, working hard instead to try to reunite with her family.
Amy’s writing and use of words has a way that makes her characters come to life, like page pop-ups in children’s stories. Unfortunately I am not in a book club, but I can say with certainty that this would be a fantastic pick. I fell in-love with this book and couldn’t put it down. I hope you all will too!
Oh, by the way, at the end of the book there is an exclusive first look at "Heart Like Mine," Amy's next novel coming out in March 2013, which I CAN’T wait to read!
August 12, 2015
Every girl wants a sister, but what if that sister isn't quite what you expected? A severely mentally and physically challenged baby sister wasn't quite on Nicole's list. Little sister, Jenny, required the bulk of her Mom's attention and Dad gets frustrated from his inability to control or correct the situation. When she is old enough Nicole leaves home, moves away and attempts to start a life of her own, void of her mother, father AND sister. But a phone call from her Mom, with whom she hasn't spoken with in 10 years, opens the floodgate to her unanswered questions, feelings of guilt and heartbreaks that she thought she boxed up some years ago. This is a heart-warming, and at times heart-wrenching, story that speaks to the heart of every family that has had to deal with any type of mental or physical handicap within their family. Nicole learns the hard way that no matter the distance you put between yourself and those you think you want to hide from, that the genes shared between all concerned creates an invisible thread that binds everyone together. Sometimes it takes a moment or a cause to pull us away from our day-to-day grind to remind us of what's important and to evaluate the direction our life is taking. A predictable story, but worthy of a read just the same.
June 14, 2017
An interesting story but the lead character is hard to like. She has a chip on her shoulder that seems to be growing as the story goes on. She has little empathy for her mother, her sister's sad condition or even friends. She milks her sister's tragic situation to make it all about her. I don't believe I could have been strong enough to be her friend either. She seems to not be aware that Nova has her hands full with her own responsibilities of family, yet still shows up on her doorstep daily to be consoled and cheered. Give me a break Nicole. If you think you have the right stuff to be a counselor, you are wrong. Way to needy. If taking care of your sister is over your pay grade and you only take care of her until you get her baby, shame on you. Yet that is the distinct impression left at the end of the tale.
Sorry, I took this book way too personally for a work of fiction. I would have sure given Nicole a piece of my mind if I met her in real life.
Sorry, I took this book way too personally for a work of fiction. I would have sure given Nicole a piece of my mind if I met her in real life.
September 18, 2012
This was probably my favorite book so far by Amy Hatvany. The emotion and reality that was presented was so real that at times I had to just walk away. In every one of her books she creates characters that are so three dimensional and easy to relate to. How many times have we made assumptions of someone and found out you were wrong later, how many times have you wanted to walk away from your life and all of its challenges. This book is relatable, whether you have to deal with a handicapped sister or not. These characters are real, dealing with real situations the way real people do. Sometimes life isn't a fairy tale, sometimes it just sucks, but bringing it to life isn't an easy feat. She has this ability to take subjects that are taboo and face them head on. Amy Hatvany just is a true talent and I can not wait to read her next novel. Is it March yet???
March 24, 2013
"...Nicole Hunter left her troubled home behind her, unable to cope with the demands of a life with her disabled sister, Jenny. But when a shattering event turns her world upside down, she finds herself back in her hometown, caring for her pregnant sister and trying to heal her embattled relationship with her mother."
A quick read and very touching story. Addresses life in institutions and the difficulty of caring for a handicapped loved one. I also found the decision making process of whether or not to place someone in a home to be cared for or to be the caretaker to be very realistic. The difficulty in that decision was captured.
A quick read and very touching story. Addresses life in institutions and the difficulty of caring for a handicapped loved one. I also found the decision making process of whether or not to place someone in a home to be cared for or to be the caretaker to be very realistic. The difficulty in that decision was captured.
June 5, 2017
Mais um livro maravilhoso desta autora.
September 11, 2022
Solid 3.5*
Nicole returns home after a decade to help take care of her disabled, and pregnant, sister, Jenny. Reunited with her sister, her mother and her childhood best friend, she has a lot to take on and sift through to determine what her future holds for her.
Nicole returns home after a decade to help take care of her disabled, and pregnant, sister, Jenny. Reunited with her sister, her mother and her childhood best friend, she has a lot to take on and sift through to determine what her future holds for her.
February 4, 2018
Uma estória sobre afectos a pessoas com necessidades especiais, afectos a amigos e família. Uma estória sobre violência doméstica e alcoolismo. Uma leitura apaixonante
August 4, 2025
After Nicole's disabled sister, Jenny, is raped and impregnated, she returns home to care for her. After being away for 10 years, how will she handle living with her sister and her estranged mother again?
Even though the premise of this story was heartbreaking, the ultimate journey of these three women was full of hope, love, and forgiveness.
Location: Seattle, Washington
Even though the premise of this story was heartbreaking, the ultimate journey of these three women was full of hope, love, and forgiveness.
Location: Seattle, Washington
September 15, 2012
I had several thoughts while reading this beautiful little book. It is said you love most those you serve (thus explaining how Mothers seem to love their children through thick and thin), how you don’t know what you have until it is gone, and how family members of the severely disabled usually say the person’s influence in their lives made them who they are today (i.e. they have been blessed by their presence). Amy Hatvany has managed to capture these emotions perfectly in the story of two sisters. For anyone who has known a disabled person, this book will open your eyes to the power of their spirits on the lives of others.
Nicole was burned out. A severely disabled sister, a distant mother, and an absent father; she desperately needed her own life; she needed to get away and be free. SO she started over and found a power career and yuppie boyfriend who didn’t want anything to do with family and their inherent problems. Her life was just as she imagined it but yet she was not happy. Her career already breaking down she got the phone call came pulling her back into her past. Her sister had been raped by a caregiver and now she was pregnant.
The Language of Sisters is a story of a woman who loses her dreams only to find her happiness. It demonstrates with compassion how frustratingly hard it is to take care of a special needs person. Through the daily rituals of trying to listen to her sister she finds she is finally able to listen to her heart. The white noise of her superficial life had been drowning her conscious out, while the purity of her sister’s needs was able to finally cut through. The language they shared was one of love. Not the passion most of us confuse as true feelings, but the deep well of love that resonates through better and worse. The love that will be there through the worst life has to offer. The love that will support us when we cannot support ourselves.
An honest, sweet little book that understands forgetting yourself is the best way to find yourself. The most accurate description of what unconditional love for others can do for you.
Nicole was burned out. A severely disabled sister, a distant mother, and an absent father; she desperately needed her own life; she needed to get away and be free. SO she started over and found a power career and yuppie boyfriend who didn’t want anything to do with family and their inherent problems. Her life was just as she imagined it but yet she was not happy. Her career already breaking down she got the phone call came pulling her back into her past. Her sister had been raped by a caregiver and now she was pregnant.
The Language of Sisters is a story of a woman who loses her dreams only to find her happiness. It demonstrates with compassion how frustratingly hard it is to take care of a special needs person. Through the daily rituals of trying to listen to her sister she finds she is finally able to listen to her heart. The white noise of her superficial life had been drowning her conscious out, while the purity of her sister’s needs was able to finally cut through. The language they shared was one of love. Not the passion most of us confuse as true feelings, but the deep well of love that resonates through better and worse. The love that will be there through the worst life has to offer. The love that will support us when we cannot support ourselves.
An honest, sweet little book that understands forgetting yourself is the best way to find yourself. The most accurate description of what unconditional love for others can do for you.
September 18, 2014
Simon & Schuster|September 11, 2013 | Trade Paperback|ISBN # 978-1-4516-8813-9
Ten years ago Nicole Hunter left her family home as it was troubled and she was not able to cope with the demands of life with her disabled sister, Jenny. She gave up her therapists practice, moved to a different state, and took a job as a baker. A whole new life.
One day while working in the bakery, she thought she could clearly hear her disabled sister, Jenny say "help!". Nicole thought that odd and wondered if she was really hearing that inside her head or not. A few minutes later the word "help" again came through. Worried that something might be wrong with her sister, who was a resident of a residential care facility she phoned her mother to inquire about Jenny's well-being. When Jenny's mother told, Nicole that her developmentally delayed sister had been raped and was pregnant, the news sent Nicole reeling! Nicole decided she had to go home to help care for Jenny during her pregnancy to make up for the past ten years that she'd almost literally abandoned her. Her guilt meter was off the top.
She and her mother didn't get along all that well and often clashed and they worked around each other in silence. Nicole's mother refused to help care for Jenny at all and left all personal and other care up to Nicole alone.
Eventually, Nicole run's into her old friend, Nova and she finally has someone she can talk too and when she is faced with the most difficult choice of her life, Nicole rediscovers the beauty of sisterhood - and receives a special gift that will change her life forever.
THE LANGUAGE OF SISTERS was a beautifully written story that can be read again and again and again.
Ten years ago Nicole Hunter left her family home as it was troubled and she was not able to cope with the demands of life with her disabled sister, Jenny. She gave up her therapists practice, moved to a different state, and took a job as a baker. A whole new life.
One day while working in the bakery, she thought she could clearly hear her disabled sister, Jenny say "help!". Nicole thought that odd and wondered if she was really hearing that inside her head or not. A few minutes later the word "help" again came through. Worried that something might be wrong with her sister, who was a resident of a residential care facility she phoned her mother to inquire about Jenny's well-being. When Jenny's mother told, Nicole that her developmentally delayed sister had been raped and was pregnant, the news sent Nicole reeling! Nicole decided she had to go home to help care for Jenny during her pregnancy to make up for the past ten years that she'd almost literally abandoned her. Her guilt meter was off the top.
She and her mother didn't get along all that well and often clashed and they worked around each other in silence. Nicole's mother refused to help care for Jenny at all and left all personal and other care up to Nicole alone.
Eventually, Nicole run's into her old friend, Nova and she finally has someone she can talk too and when she is faced with the most difficult choice of her life, Nicole rediscovers the beauty of sisterhood - and receives a special gift that will change her life forever.
THE LANGUAGE OF SISTERS was a beautifully written story that can be read again and again and again.
July 24, 2012
Nicole Hunter is pretty pleased with her life in San Francisco. She has a great boyfriend, who is a well established lawyer, owns a house, whose life is pretty ordered and the way he wants it. Problem is, Nicole, who trained as a therapist, is now baking cupcakes in a restaurant. 10 years ago, she left her home in Seattle, turning her back on her mother and her 15-year-developmentally disabled sister. Now, a call from her mother has brought her back to Seattle, to take over most of Jenny's care. She finds that it's a 24/7 job - exhausting, with very few rewards. Add to all this, Jenny's pregnant by an orderly at the Nursing Home where she live.
Many, many decisions appear which simply complicate the matter at hand: Jenny's pregnancy. Surprising support comes from Nicole's friend from high school [Nova] and her wonderful family. Even Nova's neighbor, Garrett.
A very moving book, with lots of deep moral and philosophical questions. How very difficult it is to make life-changing decisions for another person. The incredible ability of two sisters to communicate without a common spoken language. A tender story of an unselfish sister who reaches into the depths of her soul and finds answers to her questions. A look at the arduous day-to-day life of a caretaker. Uplifting and redemptive.
This is a wonderful insight into the challenges of dealing with an individual with special needs.
Many, many decisions appear which simply complicate the matter at hand: Jenny's pregnancy. Surprising support comes from Nicole's friend from high school [Nova] and her wonderful family. Even Nova's neighbor, Garrett.
A very moving book, with lots of deep moral and philosophical questions. How very difficult it is to make life-changing decisions for another person. The incredible ability of two sisters to communicate without a common spoken language. A tender story of an unselfish sister who reaches into the depths of her soul and finds answers to her questions. A look at the arduous day-to-day life of a caretaker. Uplifting and redemptive.
This is a wonderful insight into the challenges of dealing with an individual with special needs.
August 26, 2012
Ten years after leaving her disabled sister behind at an institutional care center, Nicole Hunter is stunned by a call from her mother. A devastating rape and subsequent pregnancy have changed everything about her sister Jenny's future.
Returning to Seattle and leaving behind the settled and supposedly stable life with her boyfriend Shane in San Francisco, Nicole must sort out the complicated situation ahead and deal with the guilt that has surrounded her since she "abandoned" her sister.
Has the special communication between the two of them--nonverbal on Jenny's part--remained in place? Will Nicole find the strength to care for her sister, after she and her mother remove her from the Wellman Center? And what about the baby? Who will take care of her?
Reconnecting with childhood friend Nova, now the mother of four, helps Nicole settle into the new routines of her life. But can she make the important decisions that lie ahead? And will she be able to let go of the life she had built? Will the disturbing secrets from the past come back to haunt her, or will she find that the pieces of the puzzle she had put together configure into totally new patterns?
A fan of Hatvany, I enjoyed "The Language of Sisters." The story touched on some important issues and addressed feelings about old and new connections, and how unique bonds develop a language of their own. However, the end seemed to wrap itself up too neatly for me; therefore, four stars.
Returning to Seattle and leaving behind the settled and supposedly stable life with her boyfriend Shane in San Francisco, Nicole must sort out the complicated situation ahead and deal with the guilt that has surrounded her since she "abandoned" her sister.
Has the special communication between the two of them--nonverbal on Jenny's part--remained in place? Will Nicole find the strength to care for her sister, after she and her mother remove her from the Wellman Center? And what about the baby? Who will take care of her?
Reconnecting with childhood friend Nova, now the mother of four, helps Nicole settle into the new routines of her life. But can she make the important decisions that lie ahead? And will she be able to let go of the life she had built? Will the disturbing secrets from the past come back to haunt her, or will she find that the pieces of the puzzle she had put together configure into totally new patterns?
A fan of Hatvany, I enjoyed "The Language of Sisters." The story touched on some important issues and addressed feelings about old and new connections, and how unique bonds develop a language of their own. However, the end seemed to wrap itself up too neatly for me; therefore, four stars.
August 8, 2012
As reviewed in Localiez magazine (by me)
The Language of Sisters is both heartbreaking and uplifting. The novel explores the lives of two sisters, Jenny and Nicole. Jenny is both physically and mentally disabled and was institutionalized years ago when Nicole was a child. Saddled with feelings of guilt for abandoning her sister, Nicole pushes her family out of sight and out of mind by moving across the country and rarely visiting until a disturbing phone call draws her back home. Nicole and her mother are forced to reconnect over the tragedy and work through their complicated history together. As the story unfolds, Nicole manages to rediscover a great deal by moving home - her mother, her sister, her best friend and more!
Fans of Jodi Picoult will enjoy this Amy Hatvany novel. Similar in style, Hatvany tackles controversial issues and draws the readers to examine their own viewpoints. Despite the potentially heavy subject matter, The Language of Sisters manages to be a light and uplifting read. If you enjoyed previous Localiez selection Between the Lines, also by Amy Hatvany, you’ll find The Language of Sisters a little more cheerful with more of a chick-lit feel.
The Language of Sisters is both heartbreaking and uplifting. The novel explores the lives of two sisters, Jenny and Nicole. Jenny is both physically and mentally disabled and was institutionalized years ago when Nicole was a child. Saddled with feelings of guilt for abandoning her sister, Nicole pushes her family out of sight and out of mind by moving across the country and rarely visiting until a disturbing phone call draws her back home. Nicole and her mother are forced to reconnect over the tragedy and work through their complicated history together. As the story unfolds, Nicole manages to rediscover a great deal by moving home - her mother, her sister, her best friend and more!
Fans of Jodi Picoult will enjoy this Amy Hatvany novel. Similar in style, Hatvany tackles controversial issues and draws the readers to examine their own viewpoints. Despite the potentially heavy subject matter, The Language of Sisters manages to be a light and uplifting read. If you enjoyed previous Localiez selection Between the Lines, also by Amy Hatvany, you’ll find The Language of Sisters a little more cheerful with more of a chick-lit feel.
October 9, 2012
I actually read this book in 1 day, which is VERY fast even for me! I just could not put it down. The story follows Nicole Hunter, who lives in San Francisco and doesn't really have a relationship with her family since she moved away over 10 years ago. Her younger sister Jenny is extremely handicapped and has been living in an institution. One day Nicole just feels like something terrible has happened to Jenny and a few minutes later calls her mother who confirms that Jenny was raped and is now pregnant. Nicole immediately returns home to try to help her sister. While back at home and trying to take care of Jenny, Nicole is haunted by her past and must address her guilt at leaving her sister. Nicole also has to confront her own unhappy, surface-level life and why she has disconnected herself from her emotions. A thoughtful novel that explores families and love.
I really like this author, she takes some really difficult issues and builds a thoughtful novel around it. Although there were a few things that worked together a little too perfectly at the end, I still felt like the book was real and not sugar-coating the issues.
I really like this author, she takes some really difficult issues and builds a thoughtful novel around it. Although there were a few things that worked together a little too perfectly at the end, I still felt like the book was real and not sugar-coating the issues.
October 13, 2012
http://charlotteswebofbooks.blogspot....
The Language of Sisters is a re-release of a book written in 2002, so keep that in mind when reading this book. There are a few small nuances that you might notice that indicate that the book was written a few years ago, but nothing that changes the flow of the book. Nicole's devotion to Jenny is quite admirable. At first I thought she was doing it purely out of guilt (and maybe she was at first) but then I realized that she was taking care of Jenny and Jenny's baby just because she loved her so much. Not only did I love the bond between Nicole and her sister, but I enjoyed seeing Nicole come to the realization that her mother was just human and had done the best that she knew how to do when it came to raising children.
Bottom line, The Language of Sisters is a sweet story about the bond between two sisters. A bond that remains strong no matter how much time has passed and the tragic events that lead to Nicole's return home eventually lead to blessings in all of their lives. If you are looking for a good dramatic read, pick up The Language of Sisters and let me know what you think.
The Language of Sisters is a re-release of a book written in 2002, so keep that in mind when reading this book. There are a few small nuances that you might notice that indicate that the book was written a few years ago, but nothing that changes the flow of the book. Nicole's devotion to Jenny is quite admirable. At first I thought she was doing it purely out of guilt (and maybe she was at first) but then I realized that she was taking care of Jenny and Jenny's baby just because she loved her so much. Not only did I love the bond between Nicole and her sister, but I enjoyed seeing Nicole come to the realization that her mother was just human and had done the best that she knew how to do when it came to raising children.
Bottom line, The Language of Sisters is a sweet story about the bond between two sisters. A bond that remains strong no matter how much time has passed and the tragic events that lead to Nicole's return home eventually lead to blessings in all of their lives. If you are looking for a good dramatic read, pick up The Language of Sisters and let me know what you think.
December 6, 2015
É mais 3,5 estrelas.
Achei que foi uma história com os seus momentos emocionante sobre 3 mulheres. Quando Nicole regressa a Seattle após saber da violação da irmã mais nova, Jenny, que sofre de uma grave doença neurológica incapacitante e que engravida, trata-se de um reencontro com o passado triste e violento da sua infância e adolescência, a reconciliação com a mãe e com a irmã. Não se trata de um drama, ou pelo menos não é descrito de forma dramática e depressiva; é no fundo Nicole reconhecer a importância da família e ajudar a irmã nesta fase difícil, tirando-a do lar onde vivia e levando-a para casa (da mãe, onde está a viver enquanto se encontra em Seattle). Também foi bonito que Nicole reencontrasse a grande amiga, Nova, que é muito engraçada, ela e os seus muitos filhos.
O final é que me deixou insatisfeita, havia alguns pontos que achei podiam ter sido melhorados e mais descritos. [spoiler]Nicole e Garrett juntos foi algo muito insonso; de certo modo esperava que o pai das irmãs aparecesse um pouco, afinal Nicole tinha uma ideia dele completamente errada.[/spoiler] Depois de O Jardim das Memórias tinha expetativas elevadas.
Achei que foi uma história com os seus momentos emocionante sobre 3 mulheres. Quando Nicole regressa a Seattle após saber da violação da irmã mais nova, Jenny, que sofre de uma grave doença neurológica incapacitante e que engravida, trata-se de um reencontro com o passado triste e violento da sua infância e adolescência, a reconciliação com a mãe e com a irmã. Não se trata de um drama, ou pelo menos não é descrito de forma dramática e depressiva; é no fundo Nicole reconhecer a importância da família e ajudar a irmã nesta fase difícil, tirando-a do lar onde vivia e levando-a para casa (da mãe, onde está a viver enquanto se encontra em Seattle). Também foi bonito que Nicole reencontrasse a grande amiga, Nova, que é muito engraçada, ela e os seus muitos filhos.
O final é que me deixou insatisfeita, havia alguns pontos que achei podiam ter sido melhorados e mais descritos. [spoiler]Nicole e Garrett juntos foi algo muito insonso; de certo modo esperava que o pai das irmãs aparecesse um pouco, afinal Nicole tinha uma ideia dele completamente errada.[/spoiler] Depois de O Jardim das Memórias tinha expetativas elevadas.
January 13, 2013
I loved Outside the Lines by Amy Hatvany. If I love one book by an author, I will certainly go back for more. Amy Hatvany succeeds at capturing the emotional and complex relationship between sisters in The Language of Sisters.
Nicole Hunter has what she thinks is a great life. Her career as a therapist wasn't as fulfilling as she thought, instead Nicole is trying to make it as a pastry chef. At home, her boyfriend Shane likes everything neat and organized. He's handsome and has a successful career as a prosecutor. On the outside, she has a life that most people would envy. But on the inside, even Nicole isn't sure this is the life she should be leading. Ten years ago, Nicole ran from her troubled home life in search of normalcy and happiness. But the guilt and shame from that decision have prevented Nicole from true happiness.
Read the rest of my review at: http://www.asiturnthepages.blogspot.c...
Nicole Hunter has what she thinks is a great life. Her career as a therapist wasn't as fulfilling as she thought, instead Nicole is trying to make it as a pastry chef. At home, her boyfriend Shane likes everything neat and organized. He's handsome and has a successful career as a prosecutor. On the outside, she has a life that most people would envy. But on the inside, even Nicole isn't sure this is the life she should be leading. Ten years ago, Nicole ran from her troubled home life in search of normalcy and happiness. But the guilt and shame from that decision have prevented Nicole from true happiness.
Read the rest of my review at: http://www.asiturnthepages.blogspot.c...
April 12, 2015
4,5**
(...)
Mas tirando esse pormenor gostei imenso do livro. Tal como tinha referido, a autora escreve muitíssimo bem e consegue suavizar qualquer assunto, o que no caso dos livros dela é um ponto a seu favor. Além disso a relação entre Nicole e a irmã encontra-se extremamente bem escrita e desenvolvida, conseguindo o leitor compreender a sua separação e como, apesar desta, continuavam a gostar imenso uma da outra. Gostei imenso como a autora descreveu a humanidade de Jenny, a irmã de Nicole. Pode ser difícil descrever alguém com algum tipo de atraso mental, mas a autora fê-lo muitíssimo bem. Para além da relação entre irmãs, a relação entre mãe e filhas também é desenvolvida e esta também foi muito bem explorada.
Foi um livro que gostei imenso, talvez ainda mais do que o anterior que tinha lido da autora. Recomendo!
Opinião completa em http://blocodedevaneios.blogspot.pt/2...
(...)
Mas tirando esse pormenor gostei imenso do livro. Tal como tinha referido, a autora escreve muitíssimo bem e consegue suavizar qualquer assunto, o que no caso dos livros dela é um ponto a seu favor. Além disso a relação entre Nicole e a irmã encontra-se extremamente bem escrita e desenvolvida, conseguindo o leitor compreender a sua separação e como, apesar desta, continuavam a gostar imenso uma da outra. Gostei imenso como a autora descreveu a humanidade de Jenny, a irmã de Nicole. Pode ser difícil descrever alguém com algum tipo de atraso mental, mas a autora fê-lo muitíssimo bem. Para além da relação entre irmãs, a relação entre mãe e filhas também é desenvolvida e esta também foi muito bem explorada.
Foi um livro que gostei imenso, talvez ainda mais do que o anterior que tinha lido da autora. Recomendo!
Opinião completa em http://blocodedevaneios.blogspot.pt/2...
September 20, 2012
3.5 It is hard to write woman's fiction that doesn't border on the cheesy or overly dramatic but I think this author has managed to find the right balance. Although this is not my favorite by her, I believe this might be her first book, but one can tell while reading that this subject meant alot to her. Her love for her characters and their inner struggles are apparent while reading. I loved the bond between the sisters and how they could hear each other in their hearts even though one could not speak. Although the ending was a bit predictable it was a welcome ending for this reader. I also like that this author tackles many of the sociological issues of the day and does them so well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews