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The Wisdom of the Willow
In the backyard of Margaret and Joe Dowling’s new house in the north suburbs of Chicago, Joe plants a young willow tree as a symbol of home, belonging, and growth. As the years pass, the willow becomes a place for Margaret to share life’s wisdom with their four young daughters.
Years after leaving the nest, now in their early forties, the Dowling women find themselves faced with changes that will define their lives. Debra, the oldest, is shattered when she is asked for a divorce. Rose, who has long hidden her true self, finally begins to evaluate her pattern of being in uncommitted relationships. Linney fears losing Magnolia, the magical shop where she works. Charlotte, the youngest, is the only one who knows their mother is terminally ill, and has been charged by her with keeping it a secret. And Margaret, now faced with the greatest of challenges and struggling with whether she has done enough to help her daughters find their way in life, calls them all to the family home to reunite under the willow one last time.
A metaphorically rich and reflective tale of sisterhood and strength, The Wisdom of the Willow is a story of hope and healing, of the choices that shape our lives, and the challenges we all face as we seek to find our places in the world.
Years after leaving the nest, now in their early forties, the Dowling women find themselves faced with changes that will define their lives. Debra, the oldest, is shattered when she is asked for a divorce. Rose, who has long hidden her true self, finally begins to evaluate her pattern of being in uncommitted relationships. Linney fears losing Magnolia, the magical shop where she works. Charlotte, the youngest, is the only one who knows their mother is terminally ill, and has been charged by her with keeping it a secret. And Margaret, now faced with the greatest of challenges and struggling with whether she has done enough to help her daughters find their way in life, calls them all to the family home to reunite under the willow one last time.
A metaphorically rich and reflective tale of sisterhood and strength, The Wisdom of the Willow is a story of hope and healing, of the choices that shape our lives, and the challenges we all face as we seek to find our places in the world.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2024
10 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Chadwick
3 books48 followersNancy Chadwick is an essayist, memoirist, and fiction writer. After a decade in advertising, another decade in corporate banking, she quit and began to write full time. She is the author of Under the Birch Tree - A Memoir of Discovering Connections and Finding Home, novels The Wisdom Of The Willow and Mercy Town. Her essays have appeared in anthologies, literary and trade publications, and other outlets.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 10, 2024
The Wisdom of The Willow written by Nancy Chadwick was one heart breaking story about family, love, forgiveness, healing, and loss. This book does have dual POV told by four daughters and their mother over the course of a year and their early lives. The only issue I had with this book was that I wanted to know more about the characters, it felt like their childhood was barely mentioned, instead it cut right to the chase of their young adult lives. I fell in love with the gorgeous cover and knew I had to get my hands on this book immediately, and I'm so glad I did because it was such a beautiful story, but also very gut wrenching. My heart needs to be repaired, the amount of times it shattered while reading this book was intense. I absolutely loved the first person narratives because it felt like I was right there experiencing these characters lives. I felt so many emotions while reading this book, I cried, I smiled, I giggled, I felt hope, anger, sadness, happiness. In all honesty, it felt like my heart was being thrown around and I couldn't help but grip my kindle for dear life wondering when the secrets were going to be spilled. I can't recommend this book enough, it truly shows that not all families are perfect, some families have their flaws and it's a beautiful experience watching people overcome their obstacles.
THANK YOU TO NEGALLEY AND PR BY THE BOOK FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!
"There's nothing that can be done about this thing growing inside my head". "A tumor? You have a brain tumor, Ma?"
Margaret and Joe Dowling have bought their new house in the suburbs of Chicago where they plan to spend the rest of their lives and start a family. Margaret has always had an eye for any type of nature, whether it's flowers or trees, Margaret has always loved nature. When Joe and Margaret move into their new house, Joe plants a young willow tree as a symbol of belonging, growth, and home. As the years pass on, the willow tree becomes a place for Margaret to share life's wisdom with their four young daughters. Margaret and Joe's daughters go through different life experiences, but the willow tree is there for them to come back to when life gets too hard and they each need a moment to decompress. No matter what obstacles get thrown their ways, Margaret is the glue that keeps their family together. Years after leaving the nest and moving out, the Dowling daughters find themselves faced with changes that will define each of their lives and impact those close around them. Debra, the oldest is shattered when her husband asks for a divorce. Rose who is the second oldest has long hidden her true self, finally begins to reevaluate her pattern of being in uncommitted relationships. Linney the middle daughter fears losing Magnolia, the magical shop where she works that has changed her life for the best. Charlotte the youngest Dowling daughter is the only one who knows that Margaret is terminally ill and has been charged by Margaret to keep it a secret.
Despite their difficulties, Debra, Rose, Linney, and Charlotte are a group of strong independent women that deserve the world. Margaret is now faced with the greatest challenges and struggling with whether she has done enough to help her daughters find their ways in life, calls the whole family to the family home to reunite under the willow tree one last and finally time. My heart absolutely broke for Margaret when she would question her role as a mother, whether she was doing the best for her daughters, or is she was failing them completely. I wanted to reach into my kindle so many times and hug this group of women under the willow tree and just let them know that no matter what gets thrown their way, life will eventually be okay. The things Joe did for his family, just left the biggest smile on my face. I'm just so shocked how beautiful and heart breaking this book was at the exact same time, one single page had me laughing and crying at the same time. I can't recommend this book enough, please do yourself a favor and pick up a copy immediately, it definitely won't disappoint, just keep the tissues on deck, because you will NEED them. You are all probably wondering the same exact thing I am, why do I do this to myself? Well, because I love books that mentally destroy me. Am I okay? Probably not.
THANK YOU TO NEGALLEY AND PR BY THE BOOK FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!
"There's nothing that can be done about this thing growing inside my head". "A tumor? You have a brain tumor, Ma?"
Margaret and Joe Dowling have bought their new house in the suburbs of Chicago where they plan to spend the rest of their lives and start a family. Margaret has always had an eye for any type of nature, whether it's flowers or trees, Margaret has always loved nature. When Joe and Margaret move into their new house, Joe plants a young willow tree as a symbol of belonging, growth, and home. As the years pass on, the willow tree becomes a place for Margaret to share life's wisdom with their four young daughters. Margaret and Joe's daughters go through different life experiences, but the willow tree is there for them to come back to when life gets too hard and they each need a moment to decompress. No matter what obstacles get thrown their ways, Margaret is the glue that keeps their family together. Years after leaving the nest and moving out, the Dowling daughters find themselves faced with changes that will define each of their lives and impact those close around them. Debra, the oldest is shattered when her husband asks for a divorce. Rose who is the second oldest has long hidden her true self, finally begins to reevaluate her pattern of being in uncommitted relationships. Linney the middle daughter fears losing Magnolia, the magical shop where she works that has changed her life for the best. Charlotte the youngest Dowling daughter is the only one who knows that Margaret is terminally ill and has been charged by Margaret to keep it a secret.
Despite their difficulties, Debra, Rose, Linney, and Charlotte are a group of strong independent women that deserve the world. Margaret is now faced with the greatest challenges and struggling with whether she has done enough to help her daughters find their ways in life, calls the whole family to the family home to reunite under the willow tree one last and finally time. My heart absolutely broke for Margaret when she would question her role as a mother, whether she was doing the best for her daughters, or is she was failing them completely. I wanted to reach into my kindle so many times and hug this group of women under the willow tree and just let them know that no matter what gets thrown their way, life will eventually be okay. The things Joe did for his family, just left the biggest smile on my face. I'm just so shocked how beautiful and heart breaking this book was at the exact same time, one single page had me laughing and crying at the same time. I can't recommend this book enough, please do yourself a favor and pick up a copy immediately, it definitely won't disappoint, just keep the tissues on deck, because you will NEED them. You are all probably wondering the same exact thing I am, why do I do this to myself? Well, because I love books that mentally destroy me. Am I okay? Probably not.
November 3, 2024
The Wisdom of the Willow is a lovely, sensitive coming of age (and beyond) story of the four Dowling sisters. Debra, the oldest, works in the corporate world of event planning, Ruth has a wavering path through the arts, first in theatre, followed by travel journalism. Linney loves the outdoors and works in an eclectic shop selling home furnishings. Charlotte, the youngest, has fallen into the role as the caretaker of her aging parents.
The story takes place during the summer of 1998 when the family gathers at the childhood home. Using multiple voices, each daughter reviews the trajectory of her life and the decisions made, both deliberate and casual, that have led her to the present day.
Their mother Margaret is the emotional center of the story, patiently guiding her daughters to find “their place to be.” Margaret is a classic 1950s housewife, who worked as a secretary before meeting her husband Joe at work, then marrying when she becomes pregnant. She recognizes that her limited options were less complicated than her daughters, who must balance work, life, and motherhood. Margaret offers thoughtful and patient advice as she gathers her family around their backyard willow tree, the symbol of family unit and quiet strength.
This book may remind some of The Most Fun We’ve Ever Had, by Clair Lombardo, which also tells the story of four sisters as they confront life’s challenges. However, this family is first and foremost a dysfunctional family dealing with mental illness and deep family secrets. In contrast, the strength of The Wisdom of the Willow is that the Dowling family is functional. There is no bombshell of an adopted child looking for his birthmother. Navigating the 20’s and 30’s is challenging for anybody who must work to find a compatible career and potentially a life partner, or as Margaret Dowling would say, “a place to be.” The Dowling family is very real and relatable.
Chadwick’s insightful handling of this material deepens the story. Using multiple voices can be tricky, but Chadwick is able to weave them together to both establish the sisters as individuals and how they relate to one another. Chadwick also has a natural gift for dialog combined with telling details. The Wisdom of the Willow will make the reader feel the challenge of finding a niche in this complicated world. Depending on the reader’s age, readers will either remember their own struggles or realize that they are not alone.
June 25, 2024
This beautiful written debut novel is about the connection between family and nature. It's about the seasons of growth and love and sorrow and how they affect a family.
When Margaret and Joe Dowling bought their home in the suburbs of Chicago, they planted a willow tree as a symbol of home, belonging, and growth. In the following years as they raised their four daughters, Margaret often took the girls to sit beneath the willow tree as she shared life lessons with them. Now the daughters are grown and all have their own lives but still return frequently to spend time with their parents. As the book begins all four sisters are in their forties and they are all facing changes in their lives that will affect their futures. Debra is facing a divorce. Rose begins to question herself over why she was unable to be part of a committed relationship over the years. Linney works in a shop that seems to be full of magic and is important to her neighborhood and she has to face losing the shop. Charlotte, the youngest, who sees her parents the most frequently, is the daughter that her parents entrust with the secret that their mother has a terminal illness. Margaret, the mother worries whether she has done enough over the years to help her daughters find their way to happy and fulfilling lives. Her daughters become suspicious that there is something wrong with their mother's health and when she decides to share her diagnosis with all of her daughters, they are sitting near their beautiful willow tree - now grown tall and strong, just like the four sisters have done.
I love books about sisters and these sisters were all well written - flaws and all. Even though they were all facing different challenges and even though they fought with each other, they each knew that their sisters were their biggest supporters and would always be there for each other.
I often highlight sentences in books that touch me. If I had highlighted those sentences in this book, it would be full of yellow highlights. The writing is so beautiful and the sentences so full of meaning that the book has stayed in my mind. This is a book that should and will be read again.
When Margaret and Joe Dowling bought their home in the suburbs of Chicago, they planted a willow tree as a symbol of home, belonging, and growth. In the following years as they raised their four daughters, Margaret often took the girls to sit beneath the willow tree as she shared life lessons with them. Now the daughters are grown and all have their own lives but still return frequently to spend time with their parents. As the book begins all four sisters are in their forties and they are all facing changes in their lives that will affect their futures. Debra is facing a divorce. Rose begins to question herself over why she was unable to be part of a committed relationship over the years. Linney works in a shop that seems to be full of magic and is important to her neighborhood and she has to face losing the shop. Charlotte, the youngest, who sees her parents the most frequently, is the daughter that her parents entrust with the secret that their mother has a terminal illness. Margaret, the mother worries whether she has done enough over the years to help her daughters find their way to happy and fulfilling lives. Her daughters become suspicious that there is something wrong with their mother's health and when she decides to share her diagnosis with all of her daughters, they are sitting near their beautiful willow tree - now grown tall and strong, just like the four sisters have done.
I love books about sisters and these sisters were all well written - flaws and all. Even though they were all facing different challenges and even though they fought with each other, they each knew that their sisters were their biggest supporters and would always be there for each other.
I often highlight sentences in books that touch me. If I had highlighted those sentences in this book, it would be full of yellow highlights. The writing is so beautiful and the sentences so full of meaning that the book has stayed in my mind. This is a book that should and will be read again.
May 23, 2024
In The Wisdom of the Willow, Nancy Chadwick weaves a poignant narrative centered around the lives of Margaret and Joe and their four daughters. The novel begins with a symbolic gesture as Joe plants a willow tree in their yard to celebrate their burgeoning family and new home, setting a tone of rootedness and growth that resonates throughout the story.
The plot unfolds through the perspectives of the four sisters, each distinct in their aspirations and struggles. Charlotte, the youngest, grapples with her future in business administration, while Debra, formerly a magazine worker with a penchant for travel, faces a personal and professional crossroads. Linney finds contentment managing a beloved shop in Chicago, contrasting with Rose, an aspiring actress whose ambition drives her narrative.
Central to their journeys is their mother, Margaret, whose terminal illness is a closely guarded secret known only to Charlotte. Margaret's role as advisor and confidante, with many pivotal scenes unfolding under the willow tree, adds depth to the family dynamics. The tree itself becomes a silent witness to the sisters' trials and triumphs, embodying the novel's themes of familial bonds and personal growth. Chadwick excels in creating well-rounded characters, from Linney's nurturing nature to Debra's authoritative demeanor, often attributed to her role as the eldest sibling. The narrative's shift between each sister's point of view allows a comprehensive exploration of their individual and collective challenges. The novel resonates particularly with those who have experienced the complexities of sustaining long-term friendships and the simplicity of life in a close-knit community.
The Wisdom of the Willow is a thoughtful exploration of family, identity, and belonging, recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary fiction that delves deeply into the nuances of sisterhood and personal development.
The plot unfolds through the perspectives of the four sisters, each distinct in their aspirations and struggles. Charlotte, the youngest, grapples with her future in business administration, while Debra, formerly a magazine worker with a penchant for travel, faces a personal and professional crossroads. Linney finds contentment managing a beloved shop in Chicago, contrasting with Rose, an aspiring actress whose ambition drives her narrative.
Central to their journeys is their mother, Margaret, whose terminal illness is a closely guarded secret known only to Charlotte. Margaret's role as advisor and confidante, with many pivotal scenes unfolding under the willow tree, adds depth to the family dynamics. The tree itself becomes a silent witness to the sisters' trials and triumphs, embodying the novel's themes of familial bonds and personal growth. Chadwick excels in creating well-rounded characters, from Linney's nurturing nature to Debra's authoritative demeanor, often attributed to her role as the eldest sibling. The narrative's shift between each sister's point of view allows a comprehensive exploration of their individual and collective challenges. The novel resonates particularly with those who have experienced the complexities of sustaining long-term friendships and the simplicity of life in a close-knit community.
The Wisdom of the Willow is a thoughtful exploration of family, identity, and belonging, recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary fiction that delves deeply into the nuances of sisterhood and personal development.
May 2, 2024
When Margaret and Joe start a life together, Joe plants Margaret a willow tree in the backyard of their house. They watch it grow and share lots of memories under that tree with their growing family. They have 4 daughters and each one goes through different life experiences, but their mother is the glue that keeps the family together.
Debra is the oldest daughter and she starts a life with a man who has a young son. She navigates life being a working woman, a wife, and a stepmother. Rose is the 2nd oldest and she loves acting, but finds it difficult to find her spot in the industry. She also has a hard time staying in a committed relationship. Linney is the 3rd daughter, who is in tune with nature and vibes. She loves crystals and finds her way in life when she works for a lady named Bridget, who owns a store called Magnolia. Charlotte is the youngest daughter and she is very close with her mother. She visits her mother often and one day takes her to the doctors where they discover that Margaret has an untreatable tumors. Margaret asks her daughter to keep it a secret.
Will Charlotte be able to keep this secret from her father and 3 sisters? What happens in each of the sisters’ lives?
This was an amazing book and I couldn’t put it down. It was a very emotional book and I loved each of the characters. I was hoping for the best for each of the sisters and for their parents. This definitely gave “This is Us” vibes and I highly recommend this book!!
Debra is the oldest daughter and she starts a life with a man who has a young son. She navigates life being a working woman, a wife, and a stepmother. Rose is the 2nd oldest and she loves acting, but finds it difficult to find her spot in the industry. She also has a hard time staying in a committed relationship. Linney is the 3rd daughter, who is in tune with nature and vibes. She loves crystals and finds her way in life when she works for a lady named Bridget, who owns a store called Magnolia. Charlotte is the youngest daughter and she is very close with her mother. She visits her mother often and one day takes her to the doctors where they discover that Margaret has an untreatable tumors. Margaret asks her daughter to keep it a secret.
Will Charlotte be able to keep this secret from her father and 3 sisters? What happens in each of the sisters’ lives?
This was an amazing book and I couldn’t put it down. It was a very emotional book and I loved each of the characters. I was hoping for the best for each of the sisters and for their parents. This definitely gave “This is Us” vibes and I highly recommend this book!!
June 4, 2024
Chadwick's latest is a beautifully crafted novel that celebrates the complexities of family relationships, the power of memories, and the wisdom gained through life's journey. Under the resilient willow tree in their backyard, Margaret and her daughters seek comfort and counsel.
As life takes unexpected turns, the tree remains a symbol of their bond and a source of wisdom for Margaret to impart. But as the sisters face their own challenges, Margaret must confront her legacy and gather the family for one final meeting under the willow's embrace. Has she truly guided them towards fulfillment?
Chadwick skillfully captures the nuances of sibling relationships, portraying moments of love, support, tension, and growth. The interactions between the sisters feel authentic and relatable, while the symbolic presence of the willow tree adds depth and metaphorical resonance to the story. The novel’s alternating first-person perspectives create an intimate experience, enabling readers to deeply empathize with the characters’ joys and sorrows.
The deliberate pacing allows readers to savor the emotional depth of the narrative, reflecting on the connections between the characters and their shared history. A compelling story of sisterhood and resilience; perfect for book club discussions.
As life takes unexpected turns, the tree remains a symbol of their bond and a source of wisdom for Margaret to impart. But as the sisters face their own challenges, Margaret must confront her legacy and gather the family for one final meeting under the willow's embrace. Has she truly guided them towards fulfillment?
Chadwick skillfully captures the nuances of sibling relationships, portraying moments of love, support, tension, and growth. The interactions between the sisters feel authentic and relatable, while the symbolic presence of the willow tree adds depth and metaphorical resonance to the story. The novel’s alternating first-person perspectives create an intimate experience, enabling readers to deeply empathize with the characters’ joys and sorrows.
The deliberate pacing allows readers to savor the emotional depth of the narrative, reflecting on the connections between the characters and their shared history. A compelling story of sisterhood and resilience; perfect for book club discussions.
May 7, 2024
Thank you to Nancy Chadwick, She Writes Press, and PR By The Book for this ARC. When I read the synopsis of "The Wisdom of the Willow," I immediately thought of the show "This Is Us" and wanted to learn more about the lives and relationships of the Dowling girls and their mother, Margaret Dowling.
This story includes the POV of each daughter and Margaret, their mother, for an entire year. I loved how I explored each woman's struggles, whether with their career, relationships, or identity.
Sometimes, multiple POVs can be overwhelming, but Chadwick allows each character to shine so that you are instantly invested in each story.
The pace was slower in some parts, but Chadwick balanced this out with multiple POVs. While one daughter's story may be slowing down, it is balanced out by the chaos of one of her sisters' lives. I never was bored while reading this, and the plot is so emotionally compelling that you won't want to put it down.
Overall, I found myself smiling and crying while reading this book as I navigated journeys of hope, healing, and grief. At its core, this book is about the relationships you cleave to and ones you sometimes outgrow. While you may cry, this book will leave you with a sense of peace as you navigate your own journey.
My rating: 4.5⭐
This story includes the POV of each daughter and Margaret, their mother, for an entire year. I loved how I explored each woman's struggles, whether with their career, relationships, or identity.
Sometimes, multiple POVs can be overwhelming, but Chadwick allows each character to shine so that you are instantly invested in each story.
The pace was slower in some parts, but Chadwick balanced this out with multiple POVs. While one daughter's story may be slowing down, it is balanced out by the chaos of one of her sisters' lives. I never was bored while reading this, and the plot is so emotionally compelling that you won't want to put it down.
Overall, I found myself smiling and crying while reading this book as I navigated journeys of hope, healing, and grief. At its core, this book is about the relationships you cleave to and ones you sometimes outgrow. While you may cry, this book will leave you with a sense of peace as you navigate your own journey.
My rating: 4.5⭐
March 29, 2024
The Wisdom of the Willow is a book that will take you along on the journey of the Dowling family. When Joe and Margaret buy a home in the suburbs of Chicago, Joe plants a young willow tree as a symbol of home, belonging, and growth. As the willow tree grew, so did the Dowling family. Under the willow tree was a special place for the family, where Margaret guided her daughters to discover who they truly were, and find their journey and follow it through. The girls are all different, and their journeys are different, but they still have the connections. The young willow tree was planted as a symbol of home, belonging, and growth, and as the girls grow and become who they are today, I can see their growth, where they belong and also, what home is to each of them.
After their mother passed away, they discovered, she was still guiding them, still reminding them of something that they might have forgotten. Having grown up with a willow tree, I could relate to this story, and it made it special. The journey of the willow tree and the family was comforting, and sitting under the willow tree was peaceful.
I received an ARC from She Writes Press through NetGalley.
After their mother passed away, they discovered, she was still guiding them, still reminding them of something that they might have forgotten. Having grown up with a willow tree, I could relate to this story, and it made it special. The journey of the willow tree and the family was comforting, and sitting under the willow tree was peaceful.
I received an ARC from She Writes Press through NetGalley.
July 10, 2025
Nailed the Sisters’ Relationship
The four Dowling daughters grow up with a willow tree in their backyard, which serves as a metaphor for keeping their family bonded, like branches always connected to the trunk. Each of the sisters chooses her own distinct path in adulthood and encounters all the challenges we all do: selecting a career, growing a small business, surviving relationship break-ups, betrayal by a friend, becoming a step-mom, and facing the terminal illness of a parent. What particularly shines in this book is that Chadwick nails the sisters’ relationships. They compete, they confide, they argue, but always have each other’s backs. I’m one of three sisters and found the sibling conversations ring so true. Also, I’m a book group discussion leader and think this book would serve up a meaty discussion.
The four Dowling daughters grow up with a willow tree in their backyard, which serves as a metaphor for keeping their family bonded, like branches always connected to the trunk. Each of the sisters chooses her own distinct path in adulthood and encounters all the challenges we all do: selecting a career, growing a small business, surviving relationship break-ups, betrayal by a friend, becoming a step-mom, and facing the terminal illness of a parent. What particularly shines in this book is that Chadwick nails the sisters’ relationships. They compete, they confide, they argue, but always have each other’s backs. I’m one of three sisters and found the sibling conversations ring so true. Also, I’m a book group discussion leader and think this book would serve up a meaty discussion.
February 1, 2024
The Wisdom of the Willow was an overall good read. I enjoyed getting to know the Dowling family. At times this novel read in a literary fiction type of way. The beauty of nature and our life-journey within it is highlighted. I felt many of the feels throughout this novel: hope, happiness, anger, sadness, and excitement. However, I also felt I wanted to know more about the characters; so much was sort of grazed over, and I would've been fine with a longer book, as long as I got to experience more of the big moments the characters experienced. I was also a bit surprised by the religious aspect that became more prevalent near the end of the book.
February 2, 2024
A beautiful story told by four sisters and their mother over the course of a year. Set in Chicagoland, in the house where the parents planted a willow tree when they first moved in, and where they raised their girls. The daughters and the tree are young adults when the story begins, and we see the events of that year through their eyes (and the mother’s) in alternating first-person narratives. They each have their struggles, and they each seek wisdom and comfort in their childhood home, where the willow still grows. Nancy Chadwick has a warm and engrossing style that draws you in and brings the characters and the setting to life.
July 6, 2024
The Wisdom of the Willow, Nancy Chadwick’s debut novel, is a beautifully written story of family, love, and nature. Sisters Debra, Rose, Linney, and Charlotte grow up to be very different women, but they are anchored to each other by the wisdom they’ve learned from their mother Margaret as they’ve gathered around the family Willow Tree, and the realization that the Willow Tree is, forever, in their hearts. Nancy’s skill in creating highly detailed imagery and narration as well as her decision to let each daughter tell her own story have made The Wisdom of the Willow an exceptional experience that will linger with the reader long after turning the last page.
March 15, 2025
As an only child, it was especially fascinating to read a novel structured around the interwoven stories of four sisters. I was reminded of the classic four sisters in “Little Women,” but also of my own childhood fantasy of having the companionship of four sisters as I went to sleep each night. Chadwick includes the mother’s story as well—both as told by her but also as it plays out in each daughter’s life. I came away reflecting on how, if we’re fortunate, we can grow through the wisdom that flows to us from our parents, but ultimately the time comes when we must draw on our own source of wisdom. A heartwarming read.
May 7, 2024
In this touching story, the mother and four sisters share a glimpse into their lives as a family and as individuals. Through love, family, self-exploration, and career, they find their way back to the still-standing willow tree of their childhood home. Nature is sprinkled throughout the story, making it real. The characters are unique and complex and take turns sharing their story. Emotions coupled with compassion make this a must-read.
January 27, 2025
Wisdom of the Willow is one of those wonderful books you love to come back to at the end of a long day. Nancy Chadwick expertly weaves the tales of four sisters struggling to find their place in life and with each other while navigating everything the world throws at them. Plenty of drama, romance, and touching moments, I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful book!
July 1, 2024
SUCH a lovely book. I completely enjoyed reading about these sisters and their loving -- and much loved -- mother.
January 27, 2024
The Wisdom of the Willow explores what keeps us together--individually, and as a family. Four sisters navigate the ups and downs of love, career, and family life, trying to find their unique paths. Rooting them all and providing a path back home is the willow tree in the backyard of their childhood home, and the lessons their mother taught them beneath it. I loved the respect for the natural world throughout the book and appreciated the sensitivity of the characterization--each sister is unique and memorably described. I was left wanting to know more about the lessons taught under the willow, but really enjoyed this gentle, compassionate, and emotionally compelling story about the importance of knowing how to find our way home when we inevitably find that we've lost our way.
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