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Within Arm's Reach
“No one in my mother’s family ever talks about anything that can be categorized as unpleasant or as having to do with emotions, and, as a result, they no longer have anything to say. For them it’s not a matter of keeping secrets; it’s a matter of being polite, mannerly, and tough. The McLaughlins couldn’t spill their woes or ask for help even if they wanted to, because they don’t have the vocabulary. They are stranded within themselves, convinced that the only way is to silently persevere.”
Within Arm’s Reach follows three generations of an Irish-American Catholic family who are jarred into crisis by an unexpected pregnancy. This lyrical first novel is told through six different points of view, including those of the unmarried, pregnant Gracie, a local advice columnist; and her grandmother, the matriarch, who is struggling with her commitments to both the living and the dead. Within Arm’s Reach is a poignant reminder of how interconnected our lives are with those we love, how much more we inherit than wills decree, and how the ghosts of our ancestors walk by our sides every day.
Ann Napolitano artfully paints a riveting portrait of a family in crisis, depicting how the ties that bind us so closely to one another are often the ones that cause us the most pain. As the McLaughlins respond to the unplanned and profound change in Gracie’s life, their own memories and personal stories begin to emerge.
In the end, Napolitano creates a family quilt of sorts, each person’s life and actions closely woven throughout the fabric of the past, present, and future. Within Arm’s Reach is a rich and deeply satisfying narrative of guilt, love, betrayal, and the ultimate loyalty—that of blood.
Within Arm’s Reach follows three generations of an Irish-American Catholic family who are jarred into crisis by an unexpected pregnancy. This lyrical first novel is told through six different points of view, including those of the unmarried, pregnant Gracie, a local advice columnist; and her grandmother, the matriarch, who is struggling with her commitments to both the living and the dead. Within Arm’s Reach is a poignant reminder of how interconnected our lives are with those we love, how much more we inherit than wills decree, and how the ghosts of our ancestors walk by our sides every day.
Ann Napolitano artfully paints a riveting portrait of a family in crisis, depicting how the ties that bind us so closely to one another are often the ones that cause us the most pain. As the McLaughlins respond to the unplanned and profound change in Gracie’s life, their own memories and personal stories begin to emerge.
In the end, Napolitano creates a family quilt of sorts, each person’s life and actions closely woven throughout the fabric of the past, present, and future. Within Arm’s Reach is a rich and deeply satisfying narrative of guilt, love, betrayal, and the ultimate loyalty—that of blood.
310 pages, Hardcover
First published April 30, 2004
2275 people are currently reading
48588 people want to read
About the author
Ann Napolitano
7 books7,411 followersAnn Napolitano’s novel, Hello Beautiful, was published by Dial Press in March 2023 and was an instant New York Times bestseller and the 100th Oprah Book Club pick. The novel was published by Viking Penguin in the United Kingdom in July 2023, and currently has thirty-one international publishers. It was named one of the ten best books of the year by the Chicago Public Library, and one of the best books of the year by The New York Times, Amazon, NPR, The Washington Post, Time, Vogue, Glamour, Harper’s Bazaar, The New York Post and others. Hello Beautiful has also been long-listed for the 2024 Dublin Literary Award.
Dear Edward was published by Dial Press in January 2020 and was an instant New York Times bestseller, a Read with Jenna selection, and was released as an Apple TV+ series starring Connie Britton. The novel currently has twenty-eight international publishers. It was named one of the best books of 2020 by The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, Real Simple, Fast Company, Women’s World, Parade, LibraryReads and Amazon.
Her other two novels are A Good Hard Look, and Napolitano’s debut novel, Within Arm’s Reach, which will be re-issued with a new cover in April 2024. She was the Associate Editor of One Story literary magazine from 2014-2020. She received an MFA from New York University; she has taught fiction writing for Brooklyn College’s MFA program, New York University’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies and for Gotham Writers’ Workshop. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two sons.
Dear Edward was published by Dial Press in January 2020 and was an instant New York Times bestseller, a Read with Jenna selection, and was released as an Apple TV+ series starring Connie Britton. The novel currently has twenty-eight international publishers. It was named one of the best books of 2020 by The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, Real Simple, Fast Company, Women’s World, Parade, LibraryReads and Amazon.
Her other two novels are A Good Hard Look, and Napolitano’s debut novel, Within Arm’s Reach, which will be re-issued with a new cover in April 2024. She was the Associate Editor of One Story literary magazine from 2014-2020. She received an MFA from New York University; she has taught fiction writing for Brooklyn College’s MFA program, New York University’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies and for Gotham Writers’ Workshop. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,447 reviews
January 26, 2024
4.5 stars rounded to 4 stars
I became a huge Ann Napolitano fan after reading Dear Edward and especially Hello Beautiful. In February 2023, I declared the latter to likely be my favorite book of 2023 and that prediction, unsurprising to me, became true on December 31, 2023. And that was after reading over 40 other pretty darned good books. Thus, when I was offered the chance to read the re-release of Ms. Napolitano’s 2004 debut novel Within Arm’s Reach, I jumped!
Within Arm’s Reach is a compelling family drama revolving about the large McLaughlin clan of New Jersey. The story is told from the points of view of 5 family members and a nonrelated woman. At first, I had a bit of trouble keeping everyone straight (this is a BIG family), but a little family tree in the front pages helped a lot. A myriad of different threads, subplots, and other issues grace this narrative, all of which drew me in. The novel touches upon many themes, including the loss of connectivity, sexuality and its meaning for different people, the messiness of love, pregnancy out of wedlock, guilt, shame, sibling rivalry, long held grudges, tradition, mental illness, the art of settling, and the huge challenge of holding a family together, which really is the most important thing of all.
I was shocked when I saw the low rating average of 3.35 on Goodreads. What??? Was this the book I just read and loved? The characters so well-drawn. I thought about the characters and their situations when I was away from the book and couldn’t wait to get back to them. Ms. Napolitano is a wonderful writer with whom I have strongly connected during the reading of three of her books. Maybe Within Arm’s Reach is not as polished as Hello Beautiful or as gripping as Dear Edward, but there was enough family drama to keep me riveted and musing on how I would handle the myriad of situations that came up. I admit it—I am a big, big family drama fan.
The only thing that disappointed me was the somewhat open-ended ending though I have to admit Ms. Napolitano left enough breadcrumbs for us to imagine how these characters carried on. But darn, I love epilogues, and I really missed having one at the end of this book. Oh well. Instead of spending time mourning the lack of an epilogue, I moseyed over to the Libby App and got in a very long line (several month wait) for the final Napolitano novel I have yet to read—"A Good Hard Look.” I can’t wait.
If you are an avid reader of family dramas and all that entails, forget the 3.35 composite rating on Within Arm’s Reach and grab a copy. Oh, and try to read it with someone you can discuss it with. A very meaty read indeed.
I would like to thank Madison Dettlinger of Random House Publishing, Net Galley, and Ann Napolitano for an advanced copy. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
I became a huge Ann Napolitano fan after reading Dear Edward and especially Hello Beautiful. In February 2023, I declared the latter to likely be my favorite book of 2023 and that prediction, unsurprising to me, became true on December 31, 2023. And that was after reading over 40 other pretty darned good books. Thus, when I was offered the chance to read the re-release of Ms. Napolitano’s 2004 debut novel Within Arm’s Reach, I jumped!
Within Arm’s Reach is a compelling family drama revolving about the large McLaughlin clan of New Jersey. The story is told from the points of view of 5 family members and a nonrelated woman. At first, I had a bit of trouble keeping everyone straight (this is a BIG family), but a little family tree in the front pages helped a lot. A myriad of different threads, subplots, and other issues grace this narrative, all of which drew me in. The novel touches upon many themes, including the loss of connectivity, sexuality and its meaning for different people, the messiness of love, pregnancy out of wedlock, guilt, shame, sibling rivalry, long held grudges, tradition, mental illness, the art of settling, and the huge challenge of holding a family together, which really is the most important thing of all.
I was shocked when I saw the low rating average of 3.35 on Goodreads. What??? Was this the book I just read and loved? The characters so well-drawn. I thought about the characters and their situations when I was away from the book and couldn’t wait to get back to them. Ms. Napolitano is a wonderful writer with whom I have strongly connected during the reading of three of her books. Maybe Within Arm’s Reach is not as polished as Hello Beautiful or as gripping as Dear Edward, but there was enough family drama to keep me riveted and musing on how I would handle the myriad of situations that came up. I admit it—I am a big, big family drama fan.
The only thing that disappointed me was the somewhat open-ended ending though I have to admit Ms. Napolitano left enough breadcrumbs for us to imagine how these characters carried on. But darn, I love epilogues, and I really missed having one at the end of this book. Oh well. Instead of spending time mourning the lack of an epilogue, I moseyed over to the Libby App and got in a very long line (several month wait) for the final Napolitano novel I have yet to read—"A Good Hard Look.” I can’t wait.
If you are an avid reader of family dramas and all that entails, forget the 3.35 composite rating on Within Arm’s Reach and grab a copy. Oh, and try to read it with someone you can discuss it with. A very meaty read indeed.
I would like to thank Madison Dettlinger of Random House Publishing, Net Galley, and Ann Napolitano for an advanced copy. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
June 16, 2024
Family dynamics are often complex and the family portrayed in this novel is most certainly not an exception to that . Inspired by stories of her mother’s “large Irish Catholic family”, Ann Napolitano’s debut novel has a big cast of characters . At times it felt like maybe too many . The first person narratives from six characters are intimate and telling not just about themselves, but about extended family and the people in their lives. Three generations as well as a sixth point of view from a person connected to them in the present and the past. An unwed pregnancy, an accidental death, infidelity, things we can understand and maybe relate to are some of the things the characters experience .
I loved her later novels Dear Edward and Hello Beautiful, both 5 star reads for me, but I didn’t connect with this one. In all fairness, it is her debut novel which was published twenty years ago and the other novels are fine examples of an author’s growth. I liked this one, but didn’t love it.
In her notes, Napolitano says, “The publication of Within Arm's Reach
felt like official permission for me to write another book, which was all I wanted to do.” Even though this is not my favorite of hers , I’m glad that her writing it moved her to write the two others I loved . My recommendation would be to read those. I will continue to look out for new novels by Napolitano.
I received a copy of this book from Dial Press through NetGalley
I loved her later novels Dear Edward and Hello Beautiful, both 5 star reads for me, but I didn’t connect with this one. In all fairness, it is her debut novel which was published twenty years ago and the other novels are fine examples of an author’s growth. I liked this one, but didn’t love it.
In her notes, Napolitano says, “The publication of Within Arm's Reach
felt like official permission for me to write another book, which was all I wanted to do.” Even though this is not my favorite of hers , I’m glad that her writing it moved her to write the two others I loved . My recommendation would be to read those. I will continue to look out for new novels by Napolitano.
I received a copy of this book from Dial Press through NetGalley
March 23, 2024
I was a big fan of Napolitano’s latest two books. And I’m assuming their success motivated Random House to bring back her first book, Within Arm’s Reach. Let’s just say that her writing has definitely improved.
The book tracks three generations of an Irish American family, starting with the grandmother, Catharine, moving to her daughter, Kelly and son-in-law, Louis, and then her two granddaughters. I struggled to engage with any of them. Catharine has visions, or “sightings” as she calls them. I typically struggle with books that contain any hint of ghosts and this was no exception. She’s birthed 9 children but only 6 survived. She’s a tough bird. Kelly, at age 56, is finally trying to find herself. She feels removed from both her daughters and siblings. Gracie, one of the granddaughters, is pregnant. She’s not married, not involved with the father but decides to keep the baby. Her sister, Lila, is doing rotations at the hospital but doesn’t have the personality to be good with patients (or anyone, to be honest). Think Doc Martin but without the humor.
While there are moments of the brilliance to come, this is a much more mundane story, despite everyone having problems. No one is happy with their current lives and all seemed to be trying to find a way to make a change. I struggled to engage with any of them.
My advice is, stick to her more recent books, which are excellent.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
The book tracks three generations of an Irish American family, starting with the grandmother, Catharine, moving to her daughter, Kelly and son-in-law, Louis, and then her two granddaughters. I struggled to engage with any of them. Catharine has visions, or “sightings” as she calls them. I typically struggle with books that contain any hint of ghosts and this was no exception. She’s birthed 9 children but only 6 survived. She’s a tough bird. Kelly, at age 56, is finally trying to find herself. She feels removed from both her daughters and siblings. Gracie, one of the granddaughters, is pregnant. She’s not married, not involved with the father but decides to keep the baby. Her sister, Lila, is doing rotations at the hospital but doesn’t have the personality to be good with patients (or anyone, to be honest). Think Doc Martin but without the humor.
While there are moments of the brilliance to come, this is a much more mundane story, despite everyone having problems. No one is happy with their current lives and all seemed to be trying to find a way to make a change. I struggled to engage with any of them.
My advice is, stick to her more recent books, which are excellent.
My thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advance copy of this book.
February 16, 2024
The story is based on three generations of women in an Irish American family.
I love stories about large families and all the relationships, secrets, hopes, heartbreak, and desires within.
I only regretted that the end was left open ended… I so wanted to know what happened with all these characters!
Nevertheless, I enjoyed it!
From the author of Hello Beautiful and Dear Edward!
This is the author’s first novel.
Thank you to Netgalley and Madison Dettlinger at Random House Publishing for the ARC!
I love stories about large families and all the relationships, secrets, hopes, heartbreak, and desires within.
I only regretted that the end was left open ended… I so wanted to know what happened with all these characters!
Nevertheless, I enjoyed it!
From the author of Hello Beautiful and Dear Edward!
This is the author’s first novel.
Thank you to Netgalley and Madison Dettlinger at Random House Publishing for the ARC!
June 28, 2024
Looking for a book where everyone's awful and nothing happens? Look no further!
Read
June 21, 2024Leaving this unrated as I am setting it aside. Was listening on audio and there are just so many characters, it was hard to keep track of them all. I did get to 25% and maybe it’s my reading mood but I just couldn’t relate to any of these, mostly, unlikeable characters. May pick it up in reading form at a later date, but maybe not. I have loved her other books.
January 8, 2025
4.5 stars
Rediscovering a Hidden Gem
Within Arm’s Reach was Ann Napolitano’s debut novel, released years ago, only to quietly vanish into out-of-print limbo. Fast forward to last year—it’s republished, and my bookish heart skips a beat. After falling head over heels for Hello Beautiful, I knew I had to get my hands on Napolitano’s first work.
My Family Drama Obsession Continues
Apparently, I’m a total sucker for messy family dramas. This is the second one I’ve devoured this week, and while it didn’t quite surpass the first, it left a lasting impression. There’s something about Napolitano’s ability to capture the chaos, beauty, and pain of family life that hits me right in the feels every time.
If you’ve read Hello Beautiful, you’ll spot some similarities here. Both novels delve into the complicated, tangled web of sisterhood—the push and pull, the love and resentment, and the constant search for emotional truth.
Six Voices, One Family, Broken Relationships
We are introduced to an Irish-American family through six distinct voices. Each character brings their own perspective, peeling back layers of guilt, misunderstandings, and resentment, quietly yet powerfully while revealing the raw truths of familial relationships. It’s a slow burn, but the kind that quietly takes hold of you.
Pairing my reading with the full-cast audiobook narration elevated the experience even further. Listening to the different voices brought the characters to life in a way that felt deeply personal, making their struggles and connections even more vivid. The narration added another layer of immersion that truly enhanced the story.
Messy, Flawed, and Maddening Characters
Oh, the characters. They’re messy, flawed, and sometimes downright maddening. Each one was wrestling with their heartbreak and desires, trying to hold it all together while realizing how deeply their lives are intertwined. It’s like watching a puzzle slowly come together—frustrating at times, but so satisfying in the end.
Quiet Power, Big Emotions
The story tackles those heavy emotional themes with a quiet grace. They linger. The raw moments, the unspoken words, the weight of misunderstandings
The Ending: Beautiful, Raw, and Rewarding
Oh, that ending—wow. It hit me right in the heart. It is beautiful and raw, packed with so much emotion. The way all the characters come together, I had all the feels—like all of them.
Seriously, if you’re into those slow-burning, family drama vibes that just creep up on you and won’t let go, this one’s a must.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
Rediscovering a Hidden Gem
Within Arm’s Reach was Ann Napolitano’s debut novel, released years ago, only to quietly vanish into out-of-print limbo. Fast forward to last year—it’s republished, and my bookish heart skips a beat. After falling head over heels for Hello Beautiful, I knew I had to get my hands on Napolitano’s first work.
My Family Drama Obsession Continues
Apparently, I’m a total sucker for messy family dramas. This is the second one I’ve devoured this week, and while it didn’t quite surpass the first, it left a lasting impression. There’s something about Napolitano’s ability to capture the chaos, beauty, and pain of family life that hits me right in the feels every time.
If you’ve read Hello Beautiful, you’ll spot some similarities here. Both novels delve into the complicated, tangled web of sisterhood—the push and pull, the love and resentment, and the constant search for emotional truth.
Six Voices, One Family, Broken Relationships
We are introduced to an Irish-American family through six distinct voices. Each character brings their own perspective, peeling back layers of guilt, misunderstandings, and resentment, quietly yet powerfully while revealing the raw truths of familial relationships. It’s a slow burn, but the kind that quietly takes hold of you.
Pairing my reading with the full-cast audiobook narration elevated the experience even further. Listening to the different voices brought the characters to life in a way that felt deeply personal, making their struggles and connections even more vivid. The narration added another layer of immersion that truly enhanced the story.
Messy, Flawed, and Maddening Characters
Oh, the characters. They’re messy, flawed, and sometimes downright maddening. Each one was wrestling with their heartbreak and desires, trying to hold it all together while realizing how deeply their lives are intertwined. It’s like watching a puzzle slowly come together—frustrating at times, but so satisfying in the end.
Quiet Power, Big Emotions
The story tackles those heavy emotional themes with a quiet grace. They linger. The raw moments, the unspoken words, the weight of misunderstandings
The Ending: Beautiful, Raw, and Rewarding
Oh, that ending—wow. It hit me right in the heart. It is beautiful and raw, packed with so much emotion. The way all the characters come together, I had all the feels—like all of them.
Seriously, if you’re into those slow-burning, family drama vibes that just creep up on you and won’t let go, this one’s a must.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
May 1, 2024
Having read and loved Dear Edward and Hello Beautiful, I was so excited to read this book. I have to say, I was underwhelmed. I couldn't relate to all the characters and at certain points I didnt want to. There were a lot of characters to keep track of and the book felt all over the place.
This didnt work for me.
This didnt work for me.
July 24, 2021
The McLaughlin clan is an Irish American Catholic family living in New Jersey.
Three generations —
and six points of views from Gracie, Catharine, Louis Leary, Lila, Kelly, and Noreen Ballen.
Gracie was in her late twenties - single and pregnant. Out-of-wedlock was a Catholic ‘sin’ expressed openly in the McLaughlin family.
However,
Gram, (Catharine), was knitting a blanket for her first great-great grandchild. Gracie was planning on keeping her baby, and Gram is thrilled.
Noreen Ballen - a local nurse (usually worked at Valley Hospital) has been watching over Catharine at her home since recently returning home after a three day hospital stay.
All the McLaughlin children and grandchildren were worried about Gram. They were shocked to realize she is dying.
Gram had always been the strength for everyone.
Noreen’s husband, Eddie, recently died in a construction accident.
His boss, Louis Leary ( husband of a Kelly McLaughlin)…. felt so bad about Eddie’s death, he arranged the home-nursing private care for Noreen. Catharine needed daily help at home during her last dying days.
Louis was such a great man (the McLaughlin- married in- ‘outsider’)…. he really just wanted to ‘give’ Noreen money after her husband died on his watch - ‘his’ construction site.
But Louis knew about pride - knew Noreen would never accept gift money (which she needed with two young kids to raise on her own)- so it was a perfect win-win solution hiring Noreen to watch Catharine.
Noreen would step out of Gram’s bedroom when one of the McLaughin kids visited - giving them their private time.
Gracie was the most frequent visitor. “Poor Gracie” she was called. (out of wedlock in her late twenties).
Gracie liked speaking to Noreen when she visited Gram—her grandmother was just too tired for much talking.
Gracie needed ‘somebody’ to trust - to talk to — and Noreen was perfect ( she had two little kids with no husband now that Eddie had died). Gracie had questions.
Gracie was wondering how it is raising children as a single parent, and had questions about giving birth.
Gracie cherish Gram growing up. She was the one offspring who looked at Gram as if she were God….”powerful enough to raise the sun into the sky”.
Gram lost three children and a husband. And she raised raised four children.
Gram was a strong-like-bull matriarch.
Gracie was the youngest grandchild, Gracie, had the most sincere loving relationship- more than the other grandkids or even her own kids. Their bond was tight.
But with Gram having little energy left in her last days of living — it was Noreen who she brought her ‘childbirth’ questions to.
Noreen, another McLaughlin outsider, notice things the other family members didn’t think about.
When Lila visited Gram—for example—rather than say thank you to Noreen for watching over her grandmother… she says,
“I would think this would be boring as hell for you”.
Lila was a third year medical student at the hospital. Lila ‘assumed’ Noreen wanted to be a doctor — assumed every nurse was yearning to become one.
Noreen set Lila straight - she never wanted to be anything but a nurse since she was a child.
Noreen said:
“I prefer to help people more simply, and attend to their comfort. Comfort is a much underrated commodity in general, and it means everything to the sick”.
I liked this book - we learn a lot about Gracie and Lila ( the two adult sisters - who were once semi-estranged - and very different from each other - are temporarily living together).
We get to know all the McLaughlins - Kelly, Pat Jr. Theresa, Meggy (each of their struggles)
background history starting with history and beliefs passed down from Gram/Catharine —a powerful awesome McLaughlin!
We meet the McLaughlin men, too: Patrick Sr. and Patrick Jr.
We also meet the town Major (Vince Carrelli).
This novel isn’t perfect -a little too long - but this was Ann Napolitano’s debut novel…..clearly a skillful new author …..
“Dear Edward” was Napolitano’s breakout novel - named one of the best novels of the year - last year: 2020.
“Dear Edward” was the more perfected book, IMO, too….
but I enjoyed my time spent with this story.
I’m an Ann Napolitano fan— I want to read everything she writes.
A few excerpts:
“My grandmother gave birth often, which I suppose increased her odds for tragedy. Her first born, a sweet, chatty daughter, died when she was three years old from dehydration and the flu. My mother had become the oldest McLaughlin child by default, and three more of my five aunts and uncles were already walking or crawling, climbing over the furniture, and driving my grandfather, whose heart had broken with the death of his first baby, crazy when my grandmother became pregnant with twins”.
They were stillborn”.
Louis said:
“The McLaughlin Family has their own means of communication, secret ways of attack, and fierce alliances that are unreadable to outsiders. And I have always remained an outsider”.
This was a story - written with love—family-complicated compassion and understandings.
I think it’s impossible for the reader to not think about their own family… their immediate family: parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and our own children.
It’s also an opportunity to take a look at being the outsider…marrying into an
already-set-in-their ways- family—with strong briefs.
The McLaughin family represented power, prestige, righteousness…..and verbal suppression. There were feelings of resentment, guilt, betrayal, and loyalty.
An enjoyable generational family saga!
My one quibble and giggle is it (at times) it felt like nine full months of pregnancy.
Three generations —
and six points of views from Gracie, Catharine, Louis Leary, Lila, Kelly, and Noreen Ballen.
Gracie was in her late twenties - single and pregnant. Out-of-wedlock was a Catholic ‘sin’ expressed openly in the McLaughlin family.
However,
Gram, (Catharine), was knitting a blanket for her first great-great grandchild. Gracie was planning on keeping her baby, and Gram is thrilled.
Noreen Ballen - a local nurse (usually worked at Valley Hospital) has been watching over Catharine at her home since recently returning home after a three day hospital stay.
All the McLaughlin children and grandchildren were worried about Gram. They were shocked to realize she is dying.
Gram had always been the strength for everyone.
Noreen’s husband, Eddie, recently died in a construction accident.
His boss, Louis Leary ( husband of a Kelly McLaughlin)…. felt so bad about Eddie’s death, he arranged the home-nursing private care for Noreen. Catharine needed daily help at home during her last dying days.
Louis was such a great man (the McLaughlin- married in- ‘outsider’)…. he really just wanted to ‘give’ Noreen money after her husband died on his watch - ‘his’ construction site.
But Louis knew about pride - knew Noreen would never accept gift money (which she needed with two young kids to raise on her own)- so it was a perfect win-win solution hiring Noreen to watch Catharine.
Noreen would step out of Gram’s bedroom when one of the McLaughin kids visited - giving them their private time.
Gracie was the most frequent visitor. “Poor Gracie” she was called. (out of wedlock in her late twenties).
Gracie liked speaking to Noreen when she visited Gram—her grandmother was just too tired for much talking.
Gracie needed ‘somebody’ to trust - to talk to — and Noreen was perfect ( she had two little kids with no husband now that Eddie had died). Gracie had questions.
Gracie was wondering how it is raising children as a single parent, and had questions about giving birth.
Gracie cherish Gram growing up. She was the one offspring who looked at Gram as if she were God….”powerful enough to raise the sun into the sky”.
Gram lost three children and a husband. And she raised raised four children.
Gram was a strong-like-bull matriarch.
Gracie was the youngest grandchild, Gracie, had the most sincere loving relationship- more than the other grandkids or even her own kids. Their bond was tight.
But with Gram having little energy left in her last days of living — it was Noreen who she brought her ‘childbirth’ questions to.
Noreen, another McLaughlin outsider, notice things the other family members didn’t think about.
When Lila visited Gram—for example—rather than say thank you to Noreen for watching over her grandmother… she says,
“I would think this would be boring as hell for you”.
Lila was a third year medical student at the hospital. Lila ‘assumed’ Noreen wanted to be a doctor — assumed every nurse was yearning to become one.
Noreen set Lila straight - she never wanted to be anything but a nurse since she was a child.
Noreen said:
“I prefer to help people more simply, and attend to their comfort. Comfort is a much underrated commodity in general, and it means everything to the sick”.
I liked this book - we learn a lot about Gracie and Lila ( the two adult sisters - who were once semi-estranged - and very different from each other - are temporarily living together).
We get to know all the McLaughlins - Kelly, Pat Jr. Theresa, Meggy (each of their struggles)
background history starting with history and beliefs passed down from Gram/Catharine —a powerful awesome McLaughlin!
We meet the McLaughlin men, too: Patrick Sr. and Patrick Jr.
We also meet the town Major (Vince Carrelli).
This novel isn’t perfect -a little too long - but this was Ann Napolitano’s debut novel…..clearly a skillful new author …..
“Dear Edward” was Napolitano’s breakout novel - named one of the best novels of the year - last year: 2020.
“Dear Edward” was the more perfected book, IMO, too….
but I enjoyed my time spent with this story.
I’m an Ann Napolitano fan— I want to read everything she writes.
A few excerpts:
“My grandmother gave birth often, which I suppose increased her odds for tragedy. Her first born, a sweet, chatty daughter, died when she was three years old from dehydration and the flu. My mother had become the oldest McLaughlin child by default, and three more of my five aunts and uncles were already walking or crawling, climbing over the furniture, and driving my grandfather, whose heart had broken with the death of his first baby, crazy when my grandmother became pregnant with twins”.
They were stillborn”.
Louis said:
“The McLaughlin Family has their own means of communication, secret ways of attack, and fierce alliances that are unreadable to outsiders. And I have always remained an outsider”.
This was a story - written with love—family-complicated compassion and understandings.
I think it’s impossible for the reader to not think about their own family… their immediate family: parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and our own children.
It’s also an opportunity to take a look at being the outsider…marrying into an
already-set-in-their ways- family—with strong briefs.
The McLaughin family represented power, prestige, righteousness…..and verbal suppression. There were feelings of resentment, guilt, betrayal, and loyalty.
An enjoyable generational family saga!
My one quibble and giggle is it (at times) it felt like nine full months of pregnancy.
January 6, 2011
Blech. Sort of boring and fuzzy like a lens out of focus. I know I was supposed to care about these dysfunctional women, but I never could figure out what the heck was really wrong with them except for a series of bad choices, and in the end, their solutions didn't seem much better. I didn't hold out much hope for them. My advice to all these characters: Read Half-Broke Horses and toughen up a bit.
April 2, 2024
This book did not hold my interest and I am so disappointed as I loved Hello Beautiful and Dear Edward by this author. Just too many characters to keep track of and I dnf at 23%. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this advance copy but it was not for me.
July 26, 2024
Ann Napolitano's first published novel is back in print after the success of "Dear Edward" (which I have read) and "Hello Beautiful." While "Within Arm's Reach" did not interest me as much as "Dear Edward," the author's talent shows in this early book published in 20o4.
"Within Arm's Reach" is a family saga involving three generations of an Irish Catholic family in New Jersey. The story is told through six points of view. The matriarch of the family, Catharine, holds them all together, but her health is declining. As they come together for Easter dinner, they are hiding secrets and don't communicate well. Catharine's granddaughter, Lila, is a medical student who lacks the compassion to treat patients, but does not know what direction her life should take. Another granddaughter, Gracie, is pregnant and unmarried. Catharine's support and strong bond with Gracie was especially touching. Catharine left me with the feeling that she was going to hang on to life to see her great-grandchild born. The matriarch knows she has little time left on earth because she sees visions of her deceased loved ones.
It took me some time to get into this novel since there were so many aunts, uncles, and cousins with problems. As the book progressed it concentrated more on the six main characters, and I enjoyed the second half more. 3.5 stars, rounded down.
"Within Arm's Reach" is a family saga involving three generations of an Irish Catholic family in New Jersey. The story is told through six points of view. The matriarch of the family, Catharine, holds them all together, but her health is declining. As they come together for Easter dinner, they are hiding secrets and don't communicate well. Catharine's granddaughter, Lila, is a medical student who lacks the compassion to treat patients, but does not know what direction her life should take. Another granddaughter, Gracie, is pregnant and unmarried. Catharine's support and strong bond with Gracie was especially touching. Catharine left me with the feeling that she was going to hang on to life to see her great-grandchild born. The matriarch knows she has little time left on earth because she sees visions of her deceased loved ones.
It took me some time to get into this novel since there were so many aunts, uncles, and cousins with problems. As the book progressed it concentrated more on the six main characters, and I enjoyed the second half more. 3.5 stars, rounded down.
March 20, 2024
3.5 Stars
I was invited to read this by the publisher as I had previously enjoyed the author's prior works, Dear Edward and Hello Beautiful. In the wake of her recent success, this is a re-issue of her very first book written 20 years ago.
The book depicts a large, Irish family with Catharine "Gram" McLaughlin as its matriarch, along with its trials and tribulations through the generations. Gram has endured the immeasurable grief of losing her eldest, three year-old daughter, as well as the stillborn birth of twins. You get a sense that they just don't make them like Catharine anymore- the kind of woman who can prioritize what's really important and get on with life- responsibly and one day at a time. There seems to be a lot more chaos and confusion in her children and grandchildren's lives and she feels like she's got to oversee their well-being before she dies. And she knows she's going to die soon because she's got "the sight" and has life-like visions of those who crossed over before her. The latest earth-shattering development is the out of wedlock pregnancy of her granddaughter Gracie. This pivotal moment is something that brings a lot of hope and expectation to Catharine as she determinedly hangs on to see her great-grandchild born. Some of the conflicts explored in this book are marriage infidelity, life's purpose (work/jobs), guilt about an employee's death on the job, and accepting people's differences.
I do enjoy reading about everyday people navigating everyday life, so enjoyed delving into the life challenges experienced by the various family members. I especially was intrigued by Catharine's granddaughter Lila, interning as a doctor at the local hospital. Despite her excellent marks and knowledge, she lacks empathy when dealing with people. I admired Gram the most for how strong she was living through the loss of three children and her common sense, no-frills take on life. It reminds me of myself when I was a teenager working in a five and dime and gravitating towards all the elderly employees for their wisdom. I sometimes found it difficult remembering who was narrating the chapter as the various family members volley telling this story. I also had trouble keeping track of all the family members in my mind. There is actually a graph at the beginning of the book outlining the family. The ending was a bit anti-climactic leaving me with unanswered questions. The writing style itself was free flowing, pleasant and easy. Even though there were many pearls of wisdom and a spectrum of life to be had from this book, I still found it to be just a "good" read. I was much more enamored of her most recent book Hello Beautiful which was the best book I read in 2023- and a lot of people agreed with me.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group / Dial Press for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
I was invited to read this by the publisher as I had previously enjoyed the author's prior works, Dear Edward and Hello Beautiful. In the wake of her recent success, this is a re-issue of her very first book written 20 years ago.
The book depicts a large, Irish family with Catharine "Gram" McLaughlin as its matriarch, along with its trials and tribulations through the generations. Gram has endured the immeasurable grief of losing her eldest, three year-old daughter, as well as the stillborn birth of twins. You get a sense that they just don't make them like Catharine anymore- the kind of woman who can prioritize what's really important and get on with life- responsibly and one day at a time. There seems to be a lot more chaos and confusion in her children and grandchildren's lives and she feels like she's got to oversee their well-being before she dies. And she knows she's going to die soon because she's got "the sight" and has life-like visions of those who crossed over before her. The latest earth-shattering development is the out of wedlock pregnancy of her granddaughter Gracie. This pivotal moment is something that brings a lot of hope and expectation to Catharine as she determinedly hangs on to see her great-grandchild born. Some of the conflicts explored in this book are marriage infidelity, life's purpose (work/jobs), guilt about an employee's death on the job, and accepting people's differences.
I do enjoy reading about everyday people navigating everyday life, so enjoyed delving into the life challenges experienced by the various family members. I especially was intrigued by Catharine's granddaughter Lila, interning as a doctor at the local hospital. Despite her excellent marks and knowledge, she lacks empathy when dealing with people. I admired Gram the most for how strong she was living through the loss of three children and her common sense, no-frills take on life. It reminds me of myself when I was a teenager working in a five and dime and gravitating towards all the elderly employees for their wisdom. I sometimes found it difficult remembering who was narrating the chapter as the various family members volley telling this story. I also had trouble keeping track of all the family members in my mind. There is actually a graph at the beginning of the book outlining the family. The ending was a bit anti-climactic leaving me with unanswered questions. The writing style itself was free flowing, pleasant and easy. Even though there were many pearls of wisdom and a spectrum of life to be had from this book, I still found it to be just a "good" read. I was much more enamored of her most recent book Hello Beautiful which was the best book I read in 2023- and a lot of people agreed with me.
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group / Dial Press for providing an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
July 28, 2024
I love drama stories around multi-generational family, specifically those free of excessive sentimentalism.
For a debut I thought this was excellent. I could see how promising this author was.
Having loved “Hello Beautiful” and “Dear Edward” I had big expectations, and I wasn’t disappointed.
I loved the writing and the structure, with multiple alternating POV(s).
I did feel involved with everyone’s drama and I thought that everything felt realistic. There were no silly twists.
The characters are not that likeable, but their stories are compelling. Every single one of them is unhappy, and all of them are desperately searching for something or someone to fix for them whatever is wrong with them.
The conclusion wasn’t what I expected, but I accepted it.
I read the ebook while simultaneously listening to the audiobook.
ebook (Kobo): 352 pages (default), 117k words
audiobook narrated by Ray Porter, Marin Ireland, Gilli Messer, Kimberly Farr, Cassandra Campbell, Brittany Pressley, Ann Napolitano (the author narrates her notes only): 11.9 hours (normal speed) - unabridged
For a debut I thought this was excellent. I could see how promising this author was.
Having loved “Hello Beautiful” and “Dear Edward” I had big expectations, and I wasn’t disappointed.
I loved the writing and the structure, with multiple alternating POV(s).
I did feel involved with everyone’s drama and I thought that everything felt realistic. There were no silly twists.
The characters are not that likeable, but their stories are compelling. Every single one of them is unhappy, and all of them are desperately searching for something or someone to fix for them whatever is wrong with them.
The conclusion wasn’t what I expected, but I accepted it.
I read the ebook while simultaneously listening to the audiobook.
ebook (Kobo): 352 pages (default), 117k words
audiobook narrated by Ray Porter, Marin Ireland, Gilli Messer, Kimberly Farr, Cassandra Campbell, Brittany Pressley, Ann Napolitano (the author narrates her notes only): 11.9 hours (normal speed) - unabridged
April 20, 2024
I will be upfront and say I had a hard time getting into this book and hated the characters. I requested this book because I had heard how good the author’s book “Hello Beautiful” was. I learned later that this book was actually the author’s first published book that was being re-released. The book read like it was supposed to be a memoir of a 4 generation family; instead of a work of fiction. I didn’t feel like there was a plot to the book other than sharing the plights of this very spoiled and dysfunctional family. Throughout the book, I kept repeating to myself “these people need therapy.” While it was not my favorite read, I have to give the author kudos for eliciting the anger I felt toward these characters. I would be willing to give another one of her books a try to see if I could get into it more.
⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2011
this is a writer of major talent! I got this book after I finished reading her "A Good Hard Look" which blew me away. I wasn't disappointed with Napolitano's 1st effort either. I couldn't put it down. Do yourself a favor, read both of Ann Napolitano's books. They are wonderful. Not going to put in any spoilers, just will state that this is a family story with interesting insights into the family history from the viewpoint of 6 different family members. It's not confusing, just very interesting to see how things appear to members of different generations.
June 23, 2024
Read the whole thing still have no idea what the plot is.
April 7, 2012
If there was a point to this book I missed it.
January 30, 2024
Ann Napolitano is one of my favorites, but I struggled with this one. I’m not sure exactly what the plot was except to explore the effects of an unplanned pregnancy on different family members.
Each member of the extended family is dysfunctional in their own way, but somehow this one event seems to be the main trigger for causing strife.
At times funny, at times sad, and at times emotional, but this just didn’t work for me. I give it 3 stars. Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for the ARC.
Each member of the extended family is dysfunctional in their own way, but somehow this one event seems to be the main trigger for causing strife.
At times funny, at times sad, and at times emotional, but this just didn’t work for me. I give it 3 stars. Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for the ARC.
June 24, 2024
2.5 stars. I loved Hello Beautiful so was looking for the author’s earlier work. This was re-released this year, but is her debut novel. I really wanted to love it (a book about a multi-generational Irish Catholic family? Sign me up!) but honestly it was just a slog. I don’t need likeable characters perse, but all but two (Webber and Louis )just grated on me. Found it repetitive and several of the major plot points unbelievable for the characters as written. I will still be looking forward to her next book but this one wasn’t for me.
April 12, 2024
There is no such thing as love without loss.
from Within Arm’s Reach by Ann Napolitano
After the success of her third novel Dear Edward, which my book club loved, and last year’s Hello Beautiful, which I recommended to the book club, we now can read Napolitano’s first novel. It is inspired by her own grandmother and family stories.
Catharine was determined that she would not leave behind a broken family. Each generation carried its scars into the next, each generation putting up barriers and hiding the truth.
Catherine had suffered so many losses– a husband, a daughter, the twins. She never got it right, failing each child. Her daughter Kelly is dealing with a husband broken by grief and guilt after his employee died on the job. He goes through the motions, but is totally closed off. Underneath her hard exterior, she is vulnerable and needy. Her daughters are struggling. Lila was a stellar student in med school, but does not have the patience to deal with real people. And Gracie’s wild life has resulted in pregnancy, and she is determined she will be a single mother. The only family who supports her is her Gram, Catherine, who sees the baby as a second chance for the family, a new generation; maybe this time they can get family right.
Each character tells her story in alternating chapters. This big, dysfunctional, Irish American family is filled with colorful characters struggling with relatable problems. It is a lovely read, compassionate and moving.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book.
from Within Arm’s Reach by Ann Napolitano
After the success of her third novel Dear Edward, which my book club loved, and last year’s Hello Beautiful, which I recommended to the book club, we now can read Napolitano’s first novel. It is inspired by her own grandmother and family stories.
Catharine was determined that she would not leave behind a broken family. Each generation carried its scars into the next, each generation putting up barriers and hiding the truth.
Catherine had suffered so many losses– a husband, a daughter, the twins. She never got it right, failing each child. Her daughter Kelly is dealing with a husband broken by grief and guilt after his employee died on the job. He goes through the motions, but is totally closed off. Underneath her hard exterior, she is vulnerable and needy. Her daughters are struggling. Lila was a stellar student in med school, but does not have the patience to deal with real people. And Gracie’s wild life has resulted in pregnancy, and she is determined she will be a single mother. The only family who supports her is her Gram, Catherine, who sees the baby as a second chance for the family, a new generation; maybe this time they can get family right.
Each character tells her story in alternating chapters. This big, dysfunctional, Irish American family is filled with colorful characters struggling with relatable problems. It is a lovely read, compassionate and moving.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book.
May 7, 2024
This was the first novel ever published by the Queen of Melancholy, finally reissued after twenty years. For me, Dear Edward still reigns supreme.
It's the story of a typical Irish Catholic family, centered around their aging matriarch. I found Catherine's mental episodes very believable and smoothly crafted. The way Ann Napolitano portrayed these scenes, as if Catherine's long-departed loved ones and the old neighborhood's children were right there, was touching and comforting.
I couldn't stand Webber, and I didn't find him and Lila believable whatsoever. Kelly was a bully (I don't know how Louis put up with her for 30 years), and Gracie was frustratingly adrift - all of which reflects the makeup of real families. Nobody likes their whole family, after all.
Within Arm's Reach is funnier and more positive than either Dear Edward or Hello Beautiful. On the other hand, it leaves us with a lot of dangling maybes that would have turned into certainties if only Ann had written another few chapters.
It's the story of a typical Irish Catholic family, centered around their aging matriarch. I found Catherine's mental episodes very believable and smoothly crafted. The way Ann Napolitano portrayed these scenes, as if Catherine's long-departed loved ones and the old neighborhood's children were right there, was touching and comforting.
I couldn't stand Webber, and I didn't find him and Lila believable whatsoever. Kelly was a bully (I don't know how Louis put up with her for 30 years), and Gracie was frustratingly adrift - all of which reflects the makeup of real families. Nobody likes their whole family, after all.
Within Arm's Reach is funnier and more positive than either Dear Edward or Hello Beautiful. On the other hand, it leaves us with a lot of dangling maybes that would have turned into certainties if only Ann had written another few chapters.
April 28, 2024
Napolitano's debut novel, Within Arm's Reach, is getting a reissuing after the incredible success of Napolitano's 2023 hit, Hello Beautiful. First published in 2004, Within Arm's Reach allows the reader to spend some time with three generations of an Irish American family. From grappling with an unplanned pregnancy to wading through the complexities of the various relationships, this debut explores the unspoken emotions and interconnectedness within the family, emphasizing an enduring, but sometimes testy, bond.
One thing I love to take into account when going back and reading an author’s debut is to see the beginnings of what would be more developed later on — her skill with plot and character that she exhibits in Hello Beautiful is evident here, and she covers many of the same themes. Napolitano drew inspiration and much of the characterization of the matriarch on her own similarly sketched grandmother. And while I appreciated the aspects that were clearly based on someone she loved and knew well, I don't know that the grandmother of the novel was as complete of a person as the real-life counterpart. Perhaps this was an instance of being too close to the subject — where so much exists and is known in the author's head but doesn’t see how the complete picture fails to make it to the page.
Many of the individual storylines had interesting elements, with most of the characters demonstrating lives lived outside of the family, which brought in some much-needed depth. However, the small carousel of narrators in first person present tense only underscored the author's novice status. I would have preferred to see more breathing room in the narrative (as present tense can be demanding), perhaps with only three narrators representing each generation. Such changes would have allowed for more expansive characterization and deeper connections with the reader. Nonetheless, this quaint novel about a family grappling with secrets and intertwined lives offers a glimpse into the early stages of Napolitano's literary journey.
I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This affected neither my opinion of the book nor the content of my review.
One thing I love to take into account when going back and reading an author’s debut is to see the beginnings of what would be more developed later on — her skill with plot and character that she exhibits in Hello Beautiful is evident here, and she covers many of the same themes. Napolitano drew inspiration and much of the characterization of the matriarch on her own similarly sketched grandmother. And while I appreciated the aspects that were clearly based on someone she loved and knew well, I don't know that the grandmother of the novel was as complete of a person as the real-life counterpart. Perhaps this was an instance of being too close to the subject — where so much exists and is known in the author's head but doesn’t see how the complete picture fails to make it to the page.
Many of the individual storylines had interesting elements, with most of the characters demonstrating lives lived outside of the family, which brought in some much-needed depth. However, the small carousel of narrators in first person present tense only underscored the author's novice status. I would have preferred to see more breathing room in the narrative (as present tense can be demanding), perhaps with only three narrators representing each generation. Such changes would have allowed for more expansive characterization and deeper connections with the reader. Nonetheless, this quaint novel about a family grappling with secrets and intertwined lives offers a glimpse into the early stages of Napolitano's literary journey.
I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This affected neither my opinion of the book nor the content of my review.
April 30, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Dial Press Paperback for providing a copy of this book in return for an honest exchange.
I really liked this book. It dealt with a family and all the issues each one is facing. It is told through the perspective of grandma, mom, two sisters and the dad. I really enjoyed everyone’s point of view. The ending was a little sudden and I was heartbroken more over the questions I have. 3.5🌟
I really liked this book. It dealt with a family and all the issues each one is facing. It is told through the perspective of grandma, mom, two sisters and the dad. I really enjoyed everyone’s point of view. The ending was a little sudden and I was heartbroken more over the questions I have. 3.5🌟
June 14, 2025
More like 3.5⭐️ but tbh the reviews are too low so I’m rounding up! Not her best work but I’m legally bound to rate a book about mother daughter relationships spanning decades at least 4 stars im sorry i don’t make the rules 🤷♀️ I honestly really liked this book so do with that what you will!
i do think hello beautiful is a better book so if you only read one read that one 🫣
i do think hello beautiful is a better book so if you only read one read that one 🫣
March 8, 2020
There's been a lot of excitement in the book world about Napolitano's new book, Dear Edward, and I'm 53rd on the library waiting list for that, so I looked for other books by her and found this debut novel. I really liked the characters, the plot, and the format of the novel. It's divided into chapters narrated by six different characters, each told in the first person. I found this approach to be especially appropriate, since the family did not communicate with one another well and harbored many secrets; to me, it fits that each character told his or her story to the reader.
The two most prominent characters are Gracie and Lila, young women who are bright but lacking in self-confidence. For each of them, an unlikely man emerges as someone significant.
As seems to happen often in "real life," this story is dominated by a life just beginning and one about to end. The other members of the family react to these changes in different ways.
This is a touching novel, written with a gentle hand.
The two most prominent characters are Gracie and Lila, young women who are bright but lacking in self-confidence. For each of them, an unlikely man emerges as someone significant.
As seems to happen often in "real life," this story is dominated by a life just beginning and one about to end. The other members of the family react to these changes in different ways.
This is a touching novel, written with a gentle hand.
January 24, 2025
I flew through this in almost one sitting but i can't put in to words how I feel.
I didn't like any of the characters other than Gracie and Louis.
it's full of generational trauma to the max, which has made most of the characters, especially Catharine , Kelly, Meggy bitter and cold for the most part. There is love interwoven , but it is just misplaced and shown in the wrong ways. I felt a bit like there were secrets, for secrets sakes and there was lack of communication throughout. That being said, it was so relatable, from many angles.
I also couldn't wrap my head round the visions that Catharine had and then Gracie at one point, it didn't seem like delusions as no hint of mental illness was suggested.
All in all it's made me contemplative and got me thinking a lot about generational trauma and how it can be broken given the right circumstances, if you make the right choices.
I didn't like any of the characters other than Gracie and Louis.
it's full of generational trauma to the max, which has made most of the characters, especially Catharine , Kelly, Meggy bitter and cold for the most part. There is love interwoven , but it is just misplaced and shown in the wrong ways. I felt a bit like there were secrets, for secrets sakes and there was lack of communication throughout. That being said, it was so relatable, from many angles.
I also couldn't wrap my head round the visions that Catharine had and then Gracie at one point, it didn't seem like delusions as no hint of mental illness was suggested.
All in all it's made me contemplative and got me thinking a lot about generational trauma and how it can be broken given the right circumstances, if you make the right choices.
June 11, 2024
While most people know the author by her books Hello Beautiful and Dear Edward, my favorite is A Good Hard Look, a biographic novel about Flannery O'Connor. Within Arms Reach, Napolitano's first novel centers on a large Catholic family and their day to day lives from 5 points of view. I often enjoy novels like this where this every life is a blend of the mundane and the extraordinary. There is a pregnancy, a death, coming to terms with old age and conflict between siblings. There is enough to keep the story moving and yet I wasn't fully engaged. I could see the seeds of Hello Beautiful in this novel. Even though this isn't my favorite, If you love this author it is worth giving this book a try.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy for review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy for review.
May 1, 2024
In Napolitano's debut novel, we learn of the complex dynamics of the Irish-American McLaughlin family, weaving together perspectives from three generations to tell their story. I thought the inclusion of a family tree diagram at the beginning of the book helped in understanding each family member, given the narrative's shifting viewpoints.
The story begins with Gracie, the granddaughter, narrating the family's history of losses through her grandmother's eyes. Despite not having firsthand experiences, Gracie's role as an advice columnist allows her to perceive the underlying emotions and communication barriers within her family. This lack of emotional expression is a recurring theme, passed down through generations, portrayed as cracks in a mirror reflecting familial struggles. This first chapter was a strong start to their story.
Central to the narrative is Gracie's unexpected pregnancy, which serves as a catalyst for examining the family's dynamics, particularly her relationship with her grandmother, Catherine. Catherine's past traumas shape her perspective on the impending arrival of her grandchild. The bond between Gracie and her grandmother was a dynamic that drew me to this story.
The perspectives of Kelly, Catherine's oldest child, and her husband Louis, offers insight into a failing marriage, though the resolution of this subplot feels somewhat lacking. Lila, the aspiring doctor with an identity crisis, adds to the mix by creating contention between sisters. She’s the character that you “love to hate.”
Napolitano clearly depicts intergenerational struggles within the McLaughlin family, drawing parallels between her personal experiences giving the story authenticity. As Catherine reflects on her life, she sees her family struggles and triumphs as her life’s work and recognizes that what she leaves behind will continue to influence future generations and her family’s legacy. That’s perspective. I enjoyed Napolitano’s two recent novels and Within Arm’s Reach shows her flourishing skill as a writer.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House for this advance copy for review.
The story begins with Gracie, the granddaughter, narrating the family's history of losses through her grandmother's eyes. Despite not having firsthand experiences, Gracie's role as an advice columnist allows her to perceive the underlying emotions and communication barriers within her family. This lack of emotional expression is a recurring theme, passed down through generations, portrayed as cracks in a mirror reflecting familial struggles. This first chapter was a strong start to their story.
Central to the narrative is Gracie's unexpected pregnancy, which serves as a catalyst for examining the family's dynamics, particularly her relationship with her grandmother, Catherine. Catherine's past traumas shape her perspective on the impending arrival of her grandchild. The bond between Gracie and her grandmother was a dynamic that drew me to this story.
The perspectives of Kelly, Catherine's oldest child, and her husband Louis, offers insight into a failing marriage, though the resolution of this subplot feels somewhat lacking. Lila, the aspiring doctor with an identity crisis, adds to the mix by creating contention between sisters. She’s the character that you “love to hate.”
Napolitano clearly depicts intergenerational struggles within the McLaughlin family, drawing parallels between her personal experiences giving the story authenticity. As Catherine reflects on her life, she sees her family struggles and triumphs as her life’s work and recognizes that what she leaves behind will continue to influence future generations and her family’s legacy. That’s perspective. I enjoyed Napolitano’s two recent novels and Within Arm’s Reach shows her flourishing skill as a writer.
Thank you NetGalley and Random House for this advance copy for review.
September 10, 2024
This is a slow moving character study. I really enjoyed it but it was a dense read that took longer to read than I expected. It’s a beautiful story with a lot of interesting, complex characters that stole my heart despite their being challenging. Really loved the overall message of this book, it very much resonated with me. I definitely see the threads here that became Hello Beautiful as she grew as a writer. It was interesting to see the growth between this book and that one. So glad I read it!
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