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In a Vertigo of Silence
In Miriam Polli’s debut novel, IN A VERTIGO OF SILENCE, Emily, the young protagonist, discovers a family secret and thinks, I know now that secrets run in the blood and bones of those who came before. This intensely moving, multi-generational novel follows the lives of women, both strong and frail—shrouded, at times warped, by the confines of a long-held secret. Polli has drawn characters with empathy and poignancy as Emily strives to change the destiny of her family.
290 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2014
9 people are currently reading
673 people want to read
About the author
Miriam Polli
4 books21 followersBorn in Brooklyn, of Italian immigrant parents, Miriam spent the majority of her life in New York. She recently moved to Key West, Florida where the writing community is very active. Miriam has just completed her first novel, In a Vertigo of Silence.
Miriam's love for words began in the fourth grade, when she won a school competition for her story, The Magic Hat. At the age of fifteen she revised her children's story and sent it along to Simon and Schuster. She says, "When I received my first glowing rejection slip from Simon and Schuster, on their neatly-typed official letterhead, I was exhilarated. I felt the beginnings of what it could be like to be an author."
The year before John Gardner's untimely death, Miriam attended a lecture at a local university in New York where Gardner was the keynote speaker. When she approached him, he asked her to send him a story. That weekend, she sat down and wrote a short story. Six months later, John Gardner wrote her a letter: "You write brilliantly - your character's are vivid and real, and your language is superb..." A Matter of Difference, intended for a literary magazine, was later published in Playgirl Magazine.
Through the years Miriam published short stories and poetry in various literary magazines. She won a Pen Syndicated Fiction Award, and her story Sophia's Cat was published in a number of newspapers across the country. She was recently awarded the 11th annual Robert Frost Poetry Contest for her poem First Born
Miriam's love for words began in the fourth grade, when she won a school competition for her story, The Magic Hat. At the age of fifteen she revised her children's story and sent it along to Simon and Schuster. She says, "When I received my first glowing rejection slip from Simon and Schuster, on their neatly-typed official letterhead, I was exhilarated. I felt the beginnings of what it could be like to be an author."
The year before John Gardner's untimely death, Miriam attended a lecture at a local university in New York where Gardner was the keynote speaker. When she approached him, he asked her to send him a story. That weekend, she sat down and wrote a short story. Six months later, John Gardner wrote her a letter: "You write brilliantly - your character's are vivid and real, and your language is superb..." A Matter of Difference, intended for a literary magazine, was later published in Playgirl Magazine.
Through the years Miriam published short stories and poetry in various literary magazines. She won a Pen Syndicated Fiction Award, and her story Sophia's Cat was published in a number of newspapers across the country. She was recently awarded the 11th annual Robert Frost Poetry Contest for her poem First Born
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 18, 2015
3.5 this is one of those quiet stories that creep up on you slowly. Three generations of women, starting in the 1920's, when the matriarch arrives with her husband from Poland. He find employment in the mines, but dies there as does her second husband, Boris. Alone she raises her three daughters, one who has some severe mental issues that is never really talked about in the beginning of the book. A few family secrets will eventually come to light, discovered by Emily, a granddaughter who was basically raised by her grandmother. When she is older and finds out the secrets they will change much in her young life.
Loved the characters and Emily's relationship with her grandmother reminded me so much of the one I has with mine. Not that my mother was ill, but she worked and my grandparents pitched in. The grandmother was my favorite character. The writing is wonderful and it is hard to believe this is a first novel. A generational novel that shows how different members of a family can be and how the mother daughter relationship can be so difficult.
ARC from netgalley.
Loved the characters and Emily's relationship with her grandmother reminded me so much of the one I has with mine. Not that my mother was ill, but she worked and my grandparents pitched in. The grandmother was my favorite character. The writing is wonderful and it is hard to believe this is a first novel. A generational novel that shows how different members of a family can be and how the mother daughter relationship can be so difficult.
ARC from netgalley.
February 21, 2015
As I was reading this story about three different generations of a Polish Immigrant family --I began to not 'only' be engaged in the collective memories -at hand- but also notice symbolic -spiritual -connections to the moon -(as a symbol of women). To be honest, I think many readers won't even notice the 'symbolic' connections of woman & the moon. It won't matter, because the story itself is engaging. The characters feel so real...its as if you are in the same room with them. But for those readers with a 'twisty-mind' (nutty, like me), --its interesting to make the connection. I enjoyed reading the book this way.
Miriam Polli makes reference of 'the moon' (full moon, new moon, blue moon), several times throughout this multi generational family saga --(1920-1966).
I loved reading Miriam's story in the context from which the ancient people measured time by regular cycles of the moon. Solstices and equinoxes were originally celebrated on the closest full or new moon.
The ancients believed that the moon was the representative of the Triple Goddess. Her three incarnations of maiden, mother, and crone, were closely matched with the lunar phases of the new, full, and old, therefore, the complete triad of goddesses is symbolized in the changing face of the moon.
The moon holds the totality of the feminine experience.
This entire story simmers not only with secrets, mental illness, alcoholism, 'coming-of-age', ... especially focusing on the women in this family --but is reinforced with with inner radiance. I 'think' the blue moon --has some reference to what is happening in the story...such as epiphanies of the past should be taken out of the soul --and turned over in our minds...[representing optimism, better opportunities, faith, strength, and new beginnings]...such as the 'moon' ---(as a symbol of woman).
"In A Vertigo of Silence", where even the title of this novel has symbolic meaning to this story --
we read about three daughters: Pauline...(oldest)....'artist'
Emily...(middle child)....beautiful, fragile,
Eva ...(youngest) .....sound marriage with son
Many other family members, and friends round out this story:
Marishka ...('head' of the family/grandmother): Protector & soul connection with Emily.
Antoni... (husband to Mariska) works in coal mines/Pennsylvania
Anna...(Mother to the daughters: Pauline, Emily, Eva)- suffers with alcoholism and mental illness
OTHER FAMILY members and FRIENDS:
Uncle Flix, Aunt Eva,Boris, Mary, Wanda, Vinnie, Conner, Mrs. Elena,
Francesco, Charlie, Frankie, George Junior, Kenneth, other neighbors.
This novel would be 'enhanced' by a book club discussion. It would be fun to talk about each character. Talk about who is your favorite and why. It would be interesting to discuss the men in this novel as well, and how they did and did not contribute to the strength of each of these women.
Lovely writing!!!
Easy to follow writing! (I was put at ease while reading, 'at times', depressing life situations).
Towards the end: A family secret gets discovered by Emily while she is away at college. She will need to decide what to do with her new information. The reader asks themselves..."what would I do"?
An appearance of the new 'moon' again...(with the discovery of new information)...
"A Vertigo of the Silence", only happens once in a blue moon! :)
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley!
Congratulations on an outstanding first novel to Miriam Polli!
Miriam Polli makes reference of 'the moon' (full moon, new moon, blue moon), several times throughout this multi generational family saga --(1920-1966).
I loved reading Miriam's story in the context from which the ancient people measured time by regular cycles of the moon. Solstices and equinoxes were originally celebrated on the closest full or new moon.
The ancients believed that the moon was the representative of the Triple Goddess. Her three incarnations of maiden, mother, and crone, were closely matched with the lunar phases of the new, full, and old, therefore, the complete triad of goddesses is symbolized in the changing face of the moon.
The moon holds the totality of the feminine experience.
This entire story simmers not only with secrets, mental illness, alcoholism, 'coming-of-age', ... especially focusing on the women in this family --but is reinforced with with inner radiance. I 'think' the blue moon --has some reference to what is happening in the story...such as epiphanies of the past should be taken out of the soul --and turned over in our minds...[representing optimism, better opportunities, faith, strength, and new beginnings]...such as the 'moon' ---(as a symbol of woman).
"In A Vertigo of Silence", where even the title of this novel has symbolic meaning to this story --
we read about three daughters: Pauline...(oldest)....'artist'
Emily...(middle child)....beautiful, fragile,
Eva ...(youngest) .....sound marriage with son
Many other family members, and friends round out this story:
Marishka ...('head' of the family/grandmother): Protector & soul connection with Emily.
Antoni... (husband to Mariska) works in coal mines/Pennsylvania
Anna...(Mother to the daughters: Pauline, Emily, Eva)- suffers with alcoholism and mental illness
OTHER FAMILY members and FRIENDS:
Uncle Flix, Aunt Eva,Boris, Mary, Wanda, Vinnie, Conner, Mrs. Elena,
Francesco, Charlie, Frankie, George Junior, Kenneth, other neighbors.
This novel would be 'enhanced' by a book club discussion. It would be fun to talk about each character. Talk about who is your favorite and why. It would be interesting to discuss the men in this novel as well, and how they did and did not contribute to the strength of each of these women.
Lovely writing!!!
Easy to follow writing! (I was put at ease while reading, 'at times', depressing life situations).
Towards the end: A family secret gets discovered by Emily while she is away at college. She will need to decide what to do with her new information. The reader asks themselves..."what would I do"?
An appearance of the new 'moon' again...(with the discovery of new information)...
"A Vertigo of the Silence", only happens once in a blue moon! :)
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley!
Congratulations on an outstanding first novel to Miriam Polli!
February 18, 2015
Ever read a book that just gets better and better as each page flies by? In Vertigo of Silence takes us three generations of women. With each chapter and each word I became more and more emotionally invested. This is because Miriami Polli' is an artist with words.
I was fascinated and 100% invested in the lives of these women. You will laugh, cry, empathize, feel angry and be shocked. This book will go down as one of my favorites in 2015.
Thank you Netgalley and Serving House Books for the opportuntiy to read in exchange for an honest review.
I was fascinated and 100% invested in the lives of these women. You will laugh, cry, empathize, feel angry and be shocked. This book will go down as one of my favorites in 2015.
Thank you Netgalley and Serving House Books for the opportuntiy to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2015
Just like a person’s memories are ‘snatches of time’ not in chronological order, so too is “In a vertigo of silence”. Written as the collective memory of a family, the novel moves back and forth in time to reveal snatches of the lives of three different generations of a Polish immigrant family.
The writing style could be confusing and distracting, but it is not. This is due to the fully rounded characterizations and the skillful writing. With loss and female tenacity as recurring themes throughout, the characters become so well known to the reader that they will remain in the memory as friends.
Miriam Polli has written an empathetic and captivating family saga that many will enjoy. Highly recommended literary fiction!
For my complete review of "In a vertigo of silence" visit my blog: Fictionophile
The writing style could be confusing and distracting, but it is not. This is due to the fully rounded characterizations and the skillful writing. With loss and female tenacity as recurring themes throughout, the characters become so well known to the reader that they will remain in the memory as friends.
Miriam Polli has written an empathetic and captivating family saga that many will enjoy. Highly recommended literary fiction!
For my complete review of "In a vertigo of silence" visit my blog: Fictionophile
December 26, 2014
This has the potential to be a really great book. It tells the story of a family (mostly the women) through the eyes of several of the women at different points in time. I rather enjoyed the alternating POVs and the jumps in time (and they were clearly indicated, so there was no confusion).
There were two main problems, in my opinion. One, there needs to be some serious editing and proofreading. I'm accustomed to reading early copies of books (as this was) and there are often some formatting and punctuation errors and the like, but I felt like this one should have had additional work done before being released for review.
The second (and bigger) problem was that while the book started off very well and built the stories of the lives of these women, it really dropped off at the end. It felt like the author was rushing and not building the story as carefully as before. For example, a character's words and actions didn't entirely make sense for that character. Also, I felt like the end was a letdown, with Emily just regurgitating the 'psychological insights' she got from her counselor boyfriend. Again, I got the sense that this was just the author rushing at this point. Rather than showing Emily's growth and increasing insight, the author just had the boyfriend point something out and Emily tell us that was it and she's much better now.
Based on the first half of the book, I think the author could, with a bit more work, have a really good book here.
Note: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book for review.
There were two main problems, in my opinion. One, there needs to be some serious editing and proofreading. I'm accustomed to reading early copies of books (as this was) and there are often some formatting and punctuation errors and the like, but I felt like this one should have had additional work done before being released for review.
The second (and bigger) problem was that while the book started off very well and built the stories of the lives of these women, it really dropped off at the end. It felt like the author was rushing and not building the story as carefully as before. For example, a character's words and actions didn't entirely make sense for that character. Also, I felt like the end was a letdown, with Emily just regurgitating the 'psychological insights' she got from her counselor boyfriend. Again, I got the sense that this was just the author rushing at this point. Rather than showing Emily's growth and increasing insight, the author just had the boyfriend point something out and Emily tell us that was it and she's much better now.
Based on the first half of the book, I think the author could, with a bit more work, have a really good book here.
Note: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book for review.
June 22, 2015
I find it really hard to shelve this book under just one category. 'In a Vertigo of Silence" is a story about an immigrant family that has to deal with mental illness, substance abuse, and a complicated relationship between siblings and parents.
The book is divided in chapters that span from the late 20's to the 60's, alternating the story of Paulina and Emily. The historical elements of the books were great, I truly found myself immersed in the 20's jazz culture thanks to amazing scenes portrayed by the author. The frail nature of the characters is also very relatable and made me grow fond of Paulina and Babcia in particular.
On the other hand, I did not feel the same sympathy for Emily's character, and her storyline didn't interest me as much. I would have loved to learn more about Paulina and Francesco, but despite that, I loved this book nonetheless.
My only complaint would be that the second half of the book felt a little bit rushed, and also, I'm not sure if it was on purpose or not, but the majority of the quotes in Italian were incorrect.
Book kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book is divided in chapters that span from the late 20's to the 60's, alternating the story of Paulina and Emily. The historical elements of the books were great, I truly found myself immersed in the 20's jazz culture thanks to amazing scenes portrayed by the author. The frail nature of the characters is also very relatable and made me grow fond of Paulina and Babcia in particular.
On the other hand, I did not feel the same sympathy for Emily's character, and her storyline didn't interest me as much. I would have loved to learn more about Paulina and Francesco, but despite that, I loved this book nonetheless.
My only complaint would be that the second half of the book felt a little bit rushed, and also, I'm not sure if it was on purpose or not, but the majority of the quotes in Italian were incorrect.
Book kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2017
Haunting realism. The book really starts to come together at around page 100, so give it a chance. Polli's first published novel is a family drama that will bring you up and down. The tension pulls at you as you progress through the narrative, and the vertigo of the characters is felt with every turn of the page. This novel has fantastic literary elements that include rich metaphors and symbolism. There is great depth to the psychology of the characters (especially Emily), which is something you don't get in a lot of fiction today. With decades of award winning short fiction and poetry, it is a delight to be able to read her extended work.
July 22, 2021
Family secrets. Mothers/Daughters/Sisters/Granddaughters. Immigrants. Perfect ingredients for a captivating and emotional tale. Beautiful writing. Interesting settings. I had the pleasure of "meeting" this author in a virtual conference setting. I eagerly await her next work.
December 27, 2014
At first I was a little confused by the changing of characters and dates but as I got into the story it was easier to follow along. This books is about three generations of strong women that try to do the best for each other. The combination of lies, abuse, betrayal, and secrets keep this family together and in pieces. This is a wonderful book to read.
Emily, wow, I just loved this character. She is strong and determined. Everyone has lied to her and yet she has forgiven them all. Granted she makes some mistakes but ends up doing what is best for her child. I love how her story goes full circle.
Marishka, Emily’s grandmother, is a wonderful character. She is just trying to do the best she can. She lost the love of her life in a mining accident. Then she married her late husband’s friend, Boris, for security. She made many mistakes but for all the right reasons. Marishka has the saddest story. I don’t even want to talk about Boris. Her brother cannot come to America. She has lost so much. I am glad that her brother gets to meet Emily.
Paulina, Emily’s Aunt, falls in love with Anna’s husband and Emily’s father. She is completely out of the picture. Anna, Eva, and Marishka don’t talk about Paulina. Emily does not even know she has another Aunt until Marishka dies. I feel sorry for Paulina. Yes she made a mistake but that should not mean that she would never be around her family.
Anna, Emily’s mother, has some mental issues. I am sure Boris has a lot to do with that. I found myself angry at her for the way she treated Emily, Eva, Frank, and Marishka. Then, I realized that no one really admits that she has problems. Only after Marishka dies does she get real help. I think she has had a lot of bad things happen to her.
Eva, Emily’s Aunt, is another great character. She tries to help Anna, Emily, and Marishka but is sheltering her own family too. She does what she can to help but over steps her bounds because she is trying to protect everyone.
Frank is Emily’s father, Paulina’s lover, and married to Anna. I felt sorry for him because he got roped into marring Anna but then he started sleeping with Paulina. Frank and Paulina should not have been together. This is the secret that caused all the lies. Lies to Emily that her father was dead. Lies to Emily that she had another aunt (Paulina).
Emily, wow, I just loved this character. She is strong and determined. Everyone has lied to her and yet she has forgiven them all. Granted she makes some mistakes but ends up doing what is best for her child. I love how her story goes full circle.
Marishka, Emily’s grandmother, is a wonderful character. She is just trying to do the best she can. She lost the love of her life in a mining accident. Then she married her late husband’s friend, Boris, for security. She made many mistakes but for all the right reasons. Marishka has the saddest story. I don’t even want to talk about Boris. Her brother cannot come to America. She has lost so much. I am glad that her brother gets to meet Emily.
Paulina, Emily’s Aunt, falls in love with Anna’s husband and Emily’s father. She is completely out of the picture. Anna, Eva, and Marishka don’t talk about Paulina. Emily does not even know she has another Aunt until Marishka dies. I feel sorry for Paulina. Yes she made a mistake but that should not mean that she would never be around her family.
Anna, Emily’s mother, has some mental issues. I am sure Boris has a lot to do with that. I found myself angry at her for the way she treated Emily, Eva, Frank, and Marishka. Then, I realized that no one really admits that she has problems. Only after Marishka dies does she get real help. I think she has had a lot of bad things happen to her.
Eva, Emily’s Aunt, is another great character. She tries to help Anna, Emily, and Marishka but is sheltering her own family too. She does what she can to help but over steps her bounds because she is trying to protect everyone.
Frank is Emily’s father, Paulina’s lover, and married to Anna. I felt sorry for him because he got roped into marring Anna but then he started sleeping with Paulina. Frank and Paulina should not have been together. This is the secret that caused all the lies. Lies to Emily that her father was dead. Lies to Emily that she had another aunt (Paulina).
December 15, 2014
Filled with atmosphere and emotion, Miriam Polli’s In a Vertigo of Silence tells a tale of the women of an immigrant family, generation by generation, from first coming to America to becoming “Americanized” years later. Powerfully written, in the voices of each generation, it all seems to come back to a young girl, Emily, who has uncovered secrets in the closet of the family she loves. From poverty to illness, to self-serving tendencies, each women is, in her own unique way a huge piece of this multi-generational puzzle.
Young girls question life, face the lies and cover-ups that rob their youth, the loss of a parent, the love of a grandmother, and the mystery of relatives they will never know. Through it all, love and loyalty shine through, along with strength and the poise to carry on, no matter what.
Miriam Polli has treated her novel with the care of an artist with a fresh canvas, about to create their finest work ever. Filled with prose that will resonate within your heart and soul, if you are looking for a quiet read that promises to engulf you gently, this could be it. Do not expect bright sunny days, hearts and flowers, but expect a stark look at the reality that shapes us all where what one becomes is part of the history of family.
I received this copy from Serving House Books in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 19, 2014
Publisher: Serving House Books
ISBN: 9780991328161
Genre: Women's Fiction
Print Length: 240 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Young girls question life, face the lies and cover-ups that rob their youth, the loss of a parent, the love of a grandmother, and the mystery of relatives they will never know. Through it all, love and loyalty shine through, along with strength and the poise to carry on, no matter what.
Miriam Polli has treated her novel with the care of an artist with a fresh canvas, about to create their finest work ever. Filled with prose that will resonate within your heart and soul, if you are looking for a quiet read that promises to engulf you gently, this could be it. Do not expect bright sunny days, hearts and flowers, but expect a stark look at the reality that shapes us all where what one becomes is part of the history of family.
I received this copy from Serving House Books in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 19, 2014
Publisher: Serving House Books
ISBN: 9780991328161
Genre: Women's Fiction
Print Length: 240 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 26, 2014
This was orginally reviewed on Sara's Books and things
This book spans a wide period of time, from about 1920-1966. Granted it's not linear it's divided up into chapters switching from Emily's perspective to one of her relatives in the past.
The story is one that makes you stop and think. It deals with adultery, death, abuse and mental illness in a time when it was even less understood. All things that are powerful on their own, but woven together as skillfully as Miriam has, it's breath taking.
At times I felt torn in who to root for, I mean Emily is the obvious protagonist but when you learn why some of the other characters made the choices they did, you start to like them more and root for them.
I really hope this author keeps writing. Her work is inspiring and profound, and I'm sad that she has no other novels published yet because I'd love to read them.
Warning this book might make you cry and give you large amounts of feels, and it's completely worth it.
This book spans a wide period of time, from about 1920-1966. Granted it's not linear it's divided up into chapters switching from Emily's perspective to one of her relatives in the past.
The story is one that makes you stop and think. It deals with adultery, death, abuse and mental illness in a time when it was even less understood. All things that are powerful on their own, but woven together as skillfully as Miriam has, it's breath taking.
At times I felt torn in who to root for, I mean Emily is the obvious protagonist but when you learn why some of the other characters made the choices they did, you start to like them more and root for them.
I really hope this author keeps writing. Her work is inspiring and profound, and I'm sad that she has no other novels published yet because I'd love to read them.
Warning this book might make you cry and give you large amounts of feels, and it's completely worth it.
March 5, 2022
It took years to create these women and the one sensuous man who, I eventually fell in love with. Authors must make their characters live in their minds. They must eat with them, sleep with them, and talk to them while doing their mundane choirs that have nothing at all to do with writing. I can see here by the reviews I've received that I've done my job well. I'd like to thank all my readers for their generous and plain-spoken love for my words. Writing and reading is the dance we have in common. Let's keep dancing. xoxo Miriam Polli
January 5, 2015
How I Heard About It: I received an email from NetGalley about receiving this novel as an ARC. I downloaded it to my Kindle and started it in early fall. I got distracted by other novels and didn't come back to this story until my Christmas vacation.
What It Is About: This is the story of a Polish family that spans from the 1920's to the 1960's. Marishka is the grandmother to Emily and has raised her as her own because Emily's own mother Anna is suffering from Alcoholism and mental illness. Paulina is Anna's sister along with Eva. The three girls grew up with their mother and two different men that were father figures. The story goes back and forth between the early years in this family and their lives as adults. As Emily is in college, she begins to learn about her families' secrets which include her grandmother, her mother, and her aunt Paulina. Emily must decide what she is going to do with the information she learns and what she truly wants in her own life so that the "secret" cycle doesn't continue with her.
What I Thought Of It: This novel didn't grab me at first, but I also think I was in a bit of a reading slump when I started the book so not much appealed to me at this time. During this holiday break, I came back to the novel and ended up enjoying it. The more I read the more I became invested with these characters. The book was very well written and did an outstanding job describing family dynamics and how secrets over time can destroy individuals. I'm glad I was able to receive this ARC and will be recommending it to my reader friends.
Who Should Read It: This is obviously an adult novel so I would recommend it to adult readers. If you are a fiction lover, then I think this would be the book for you. It is a definite character study so would appeal to readers who enjoy stories that really dig deep into the personalities, motives, and intentions of characters.
Rating: 4 STARS out of 5 Stars
What It Is About: This is the story of a Polish family that spans from the 1920's to the 1960's. Marishka is the grandmother to Emily and has raised her as her own because Emily's own mother Anna is suffering from Alcoholism and mental illness. Paulina is Anna's sister along with Eva. The three girls grew up with their mother and two different men that were father figures. The story goes back and forth between the early years in this family and their lives as adults. As Emily is in college, she begins to learn about her families' secrets which include her grandmother, her mother, and her aunt Paulina. Emily must decide what she is going to do with the information she learns and what she truly wants in her own life so that the "secret" cycle doesn't continue with her.
What I Thought Of It: This novel didn't grab me at first, but I also think I was in a bit of a reading slump when I started the book so not much appealed to me at this time. During this holiday break, I came back to the novel and ended up enjoying it. The more I read the more I became invested with these characters. The book was very well written and did an outstanding job describing family dynamics and how secrets over time can destroy individuals. I'm glad I was able to receive this ARC and will be recommending it to my reader friends.
Who Should Read It: This is obviously an adult novel so I would recommend it to adult readers. If you are a fiction lover, then I think this would be the book for you. It is a definite character study so would appeal to readers who enjoy stories that really dig deep into the personalities, motives, and intentions of characters.
Rating: 4 STARS out of 5 Stars
Currently reading
March 21, 2017As I was reading this story about three different generations of a Polish Immigrant family --I began to not 'only' be engaged in the collective memories -at hand- but also notice symbolic -spiritual -connections to the moon -(as a symbol of women). To be honest, I think many readers won't even notice the 'symbolic' connections of woman & the moon. It won't matter, because the story itself is engaging. The characters feel so real...its as if you are in the same room with them. But for those readers with a 'twisty-mind' (nutty, like me), --its interesting to make the connection. I enjoyed reading the book this way.
Miriam Polli makes reference of 'the moon' (full moon, new moon, blue moon), several times throughout this multi generational family saga --(1920-1966).
I loved reading Miriam's story in the context from which the ancient people measured time by regular cycles of the moon. Solstices and equinoxes were originally celebrated on the closest full or new moon.
The ancients believed that the moon was the representative of the Triple Goddess. Her three incarnations of maiden, mother, and crone, were closely matched with the lunar phases of the new, full, and old, therefore, the complete triad of goddesses is symbolized in the changing face of the moon.
The moon holds the totality of the feminine experience.
This entire story simmers not only with secrets, mental illness, alcoholism, 'coming-of-age', ... especially focusing on the women in this family --but is reinforced with with inner radiance. I 'think' the blue moon --has some reference to what is happening in the story...such as epiphanies of the past should be taken out of the soul --and turned over in our minds...[representing optimism, better opportunities, faith, strength, and new beginnings]...such as the 'moon' ---(as a symbol of woman).
Miriam Polli makes reference of 'the moon' (full moon, new moon, blue moon), several times throughout this multi generational family saga --(1920-1966).
I loved reading Miriam's story in the context from which the ancient people measured time by regular cycles of the moon. Solstices and equinoxes were originally celebrated on the closest full or new moon.
The ancients believed that the moon was the representative of the Triple Goddess. Her three incarnations of maiden, mother, and crone, were closely matched with the lunar phases of the new, full, and old, therefore, the complete triad of goddesses is symbolized in the changing face of the moon.
The moon holds the totality of the feminine experience.
This entire story simmers not only with secrets, mental illness, alcoholism, 'coming-of-age', ... especially focusing on the women in this family --but is reinforced with with inner radiance. I 'think' the blue moon --has some reference to what is happening in the story...such as epiphanies of the past should be taken out of the soul --and turned over in our minds...[representing optimism, better opportunities, faith, strength, and new beginnings]...such as the 'moon' ---(as a symbol of woman).
April 2, 2015
“I feel as if I had waited all of my life for this warmth, for this genuine attention, yet now that its here, I feel paralyzed. There doesn’t seem to be a decent or right way to accept it.”
A family full of secrets and with those secrets, a young woman struggles with who she is. Emily comes from a family of Polish immigrants. She lives with her grandmother and her mother Anna. The prose is told in her own voice and the in the voice of her Aunt Pauline as it goes back in forth in time. Pauline has gone from her family to escape the denial of her sister Anna’s mental illness.
Grandmother Marishka has lost two husbands but in spite of her loss, she is determined to do the best for her 3 daughters Anna, Pauline, and Eva and her granddaughter Emily.
The prose is one of family struggles and the shame and misunderstanding of mental illness. Emily is told that her father is dead and is never told of her Aunt Pauline. She walks on egg shells never knowing how her mother will react towards her. Her grandmother is her only stability, but she too is silent and does not confront Anna in her lack of parenting.
Pauline is in exile from her family. An aspiring artist, she is in confliction with her sister’s illness and how it has destroyed her family. When her mother dies, she reaches out to Emily as they discover who they are and the longings of their heart, and how much they are tied to each other.
The development of the characters and the story are gripping as the secrets are uncovered as a family deals with mental illness.
A special thank you to Serving House Books and Netgalley for ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A family full of secrets and with those secrets, a young woman struggles with who she is. Emily comes from a family of Polish immigrants. She lives with her grandmother and her mother Anna. The prose is told in her own voice and the in the voice of her Aunt Pauline as it goes back in forth in time. Pauline has gone from her family to escape the denial of her sister Anna’s mental illness.
Grandmother Marishka has lost two husbands but in spite of her loss, she is determined to do the best for her 3 daughters Anna, Pauline, and Eva and her granddaughter Emily.
The prose is one of family struggles and the shame and misunderstanding of mental illness. Emily is told that her father is dead and is never told of her Aunt Pauline. She walks on egg shells never knowing how her mother will react towards her. Her grandmother is her only stability, but she too is silent and does not confront Anna in her lack of parenting.
Pauline is in exile from her family. An aspiring artist, she is in confliction with her sister’s illness and how it has destroyed her family. When her mother dies, she reaches out to Emily as they discover who they are and the longings of their heart, and how much they are tied to each other.
The development of the characters and the story are gripping as the secrets are uncovered as a family deals with mental illness.
A special thank you to Serving House Books and Netgalley for ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
August 7, 2016
Going into this book, I wasn't sure what to expect. The title, while intriguing wasn't giving much away. What I found was a moving account of three peoples lives, dating from 1920's to 1966. A woman who moves to this country trying to start a new life with her new husband. The story then moves from her life, on to the life of one of her daughters and then to her granddaughter. I love how we see how mistakes or I should say roads traveled in life impact generations to come in sometimes very large ways. It touches on many subjects including incest, child abuse, abortion, coming of age, mental illness, regrets, and the relationships between parent and child. I found this book extremely well written and true to the times it was written in. I truly hope more people will put this one on their to read list because it is worth it.
Favorite quote from this book: "Happiness is like a ghost you hear about, but never really see. It passes so quickly through you, that sometimes you don't recognize it until it's gone."
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this great book.
Favorite quote from this book: "Happiness is like a ghost you hear about, but never really see. It passes so quickly through you, that sometimes you don't recognize it until it's gone."
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this great book.
December 6, 2014
“In a Vertigo of Silences,” a novel by Miriam Polli, is the sensual and compelling multi-generational story of Emily, Anna, Paulina and Marishka Mikulski. With a nonlinear sweep, the arc of the narrative follows the family from Poland to Ellis Island, to the coal mines of Pennsylvania and America beyond. Therein slices of time are used to bring their lives into critical focus. We see how Anna’s weaknesses, Paulina’s passion and babcia Marishka’s strength and loyalty came to cloak Emily in a pall of secrecy. As these silences fall away, Emily confronts a new reality.
Few debut novels that I have read are as riveting as this one. The author has drawn complex characters that are round, rich and lovable or pitiable as required. Scenes are vivid and the actions, interactions and dialog are keenly wrought. I highly recommend it.
My criticisms are two in number: The title is overly complex and highly forgettable in the bargain; A fresh round of editing is needed to remove the odd errors that occasionally appear.
I received a digital copy of “In a Vertigo of Silences” from NetGalley in return for this review.
Few debut novels that I have read are as riveting as this one. The author has drawn complex characters that are round, rich and lovable or pitiable as required. Scenes are vivid and the actions, interactions and dialog are keenly wrought. I highly recommend it.
My criticisms are two in number: The title is overly complex and highly forgettable in the bargain; A fresh round of editing is needed to remove the odd errors that occasionally appear.
I received a digital copy of “In a Vertigo of Silences” from NetGalley in return for this review.
March 25, 2015
First, let me say that it's hard to believe this is the author's first book - the characters were well developed, and I visualized each of them clearly.
This is a beautifully written story of the relationships between three generations of women in one family. It moves back and forth between the 1940s and the 1960s (and in a couple instances, earlier) quite fluidly - no doubt about which time frame you are currently reading and how it relates to what you've read so far. There were two points in the book that I found myself thinking "oh, no, please don't go there" - and she didn't, and I'm grateful. I was able to move forward with the book and enjoy every bit of it.
If I have any criticism, I will say that the end felt suddenly rushed. A re-read might make me feel otherwise - I was enjoying the book so thoroughly, I really wanted more detail at the end. I'm rather sorry I finished already. Because this is an ARC, there are a couple typos that caught my eye, but I'm sure they'll be corrected in the final edition.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Net Galley
This is a beautifully written story of the relationships between three generations of women in one family. It moves back and forth between the 1940s and the 1960s (and in a couple instances, earlier) quite fluidly - no doubt about which time frame you are currently reading and how it relates to what you've read so far. There were two points in the book that I found myself thinking "oh, no, please don't go there" - and she didn't, and I'm grateful. I was able to move forward with the book and enjoy every bit of it.
If I have any criticism, I will say that the end felt suddenly rushed. A re-read might make me feel otherwise - I was enjoying the book so thoroughly, I really wanted more detail at the end. I'm rather sorry I finished already. Because this is an ARC, there are a couple typos that caught my eye, but I'm sure they'll be corrected in the final edition.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Net Galley
June 10, 2015
This is certainly a book which grew on me. I found the opening chapter very confusing and nearly gave up. However, once it became clear that the structure of the book was based on Emily now. (In the 1950s and 1960s), but the flash-back, chapters were looking back to several generations of the same family, it made more sense.
I liked the historical aspects of a Polish immigrant family moving to Pennsylvania in the 1920s. I also liked the glimpses of social history as the novel moves through the generations.
For me this is a book which keeps you thinking. As it progressed, I found myself thinking back to the opening pages. The characters are very well-crafted and they help to show why Emily is as she is now.
As the generations come together in the story, Emily begins to develop some sort of understanding about her past. There are however, questions which remain unanswered.
Overall, certainly worth reading.
I liked the historical aspects of a Polish immigrant family moving to Pennsylvania in the 1920s. I also liked the glimpses of social history as the novel moves through the generations.
For me this is a book which keeps you thinking. As it progressed, I found myself thinking back to the opening pages. The characters are very well-crafted and they help to show why Emily is as she is now.
As the generations come together in the story, Emily begins to develop some sort of understanding about her past. There are however, questions which remain unanswered.
Overall, certainly worth reading.
December 16, 2014
I was drawn into this family, who was torn apart by many different issues. Their stories intrigued me, their determination and commitment to the cause, their motivation to continue. They were brought together by circumstances, for their family was no different than any other in those times. Year passed, the chapters filled with hopes, dreams and lessons learned. Marishka (grandmother) was the center of the family. She knew it all, the lies, the affairs and the suspicions for they never made their way past her; she somehow had a way of knowing. It like looking back and seeing a family’s life laid out before you, their paths and how they crossed, so detailed and so vivid. The book is wonderfully done, the author wrote and chose the words so carefully.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Serving House Books in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Serving House Books in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2014
I received an ARC from the Publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
"In a Vertigo of Silence" is the story about the women in a family of immigrants. The story switches between different years and POV's of the women. The story takes place over a widespread number of years, 1920 to 1966. You learn about the secrets this family holds about alcoholism, adultery, mental illness. Most of these secrets become apparent after Emily's grandmother passes away.
This is such a vibrant story about the weaknesses and strengths of women. So if you enjoy a wonderfully written story about strong and independent women, then pick up a copy of this book. You will not be disappointed.
"In a Vertigo of Silence" is the story about the women in a family of immigrants. The story switches between different years and POV's of the women. The story takes place over a widespread number of years, 1920 to 1966. You learn about the secrets this family holds about alcoholism, adultery, mental illness. Most of these secrets become apparent after Emily's grandmother passes away.
This is such a vibrant story about the weaknesses and strengths of women. So if you enjoy a wonderfully written story about strong and independent women, then pick up a copy of this book. You will not be disappointed.
December 15, 2014
This was the story of the women in a family fraught with a grand mixture of secrets and mental illness over the course of almost 50 years. The chapters alternated between the different women and different years giving the reader a taste of what each character was experiencing and feeling. The characters were well developed and felt familiar and genuine.
The title of the book feels heavier to me than the actual events that took place. Family drama definitely has shaped (and warped) many, many people and you can see how the combination of the events of the time (1966) and the secrets being brought to light caused the main character to make many of the decisions she made.
All in all, a lovely telling of a family saga.
The title of the book feels heavier to me than the actual events that took place. Family drama definitely has shaped (and warped) many, many people and you can see how the combination of the events of the time (1966) and the secrets being brought to light caused the main character to make many of the decisions she made.
All in all, a lovely telling of a family saga.
April 3, 2015
A beautifully written story of 3 generations of women and the secret that tore them apart. After the death of her beloved Grandmother,Emily discovers that her aunt Eva and her emotionally unstable mother were not the only daughters her Grandmother had. Through the interwoven stories of these women we discover their history of love, hurt and betrayal as Emily learns of Paulina and the story of her past. I loved the flow and feeling in this book and will be looking forward to reading more from Miriam Polli.
November 25, 2014
A special thank you to NetGalley and Serving House Books for an advance download of In a Vertigo of Silence by Miriam Polli.
There are secrets in Emily's family. She begins to discover the truth after her grandmother's funeral. Emily's family is made of a loving Polish grandmother, an insane mother, and well meaning but self-serving aunts. This novel is told from several points of view in different time periods. In a Vertigo of Silence is an okay read.
There are secrets in Emily's family. She begins to discover the truth after her grandmother's funeral. Emily's family is made of a loving Polish grandmother, an insane mother, and well meaning but self-serving aunts. This novel is told from several points of view in different time periods. In a Vertigo of Silence is an okay read.
March 15, 2015
This is my favorite type of book. A multi-generational story with Grandmother immigrating from Poland and establishing her family. Emily is the granddaughter who discovers the secrets of her mother, grandmother and her absent father. We learn much of this tale as Emily is in therapy talking of her beloved Babcia, her bi-polar mother and her aunt, Paulina. Each chapter gets better and better as the three generations come together and create a wonderful story.
December 3, 2020
I finished this delicious novel over a week ago and find myself still thinking and fretting about its characters as if I had met them in the flesh. What a pleasure to follow their lives over generations. The novel is at once wide in scope and intimate and immediate in its scenes. A great, absorbing read.
(For some reason, most likely my clumsy thumbs, it says "2900" pages in the reading progress graph. It is 290, and I wish there were more.)
(For some reason, most likely my clumsy thumbs, it says "2900" pages in the reading progress graph. It is 290, and I wish there were more.)
January 7, 2015
In A Vertigo of Silence by first-time author Miriam Polli was a fascinating story spanning four generations of an immigrlnt family (spanning from 1920 to 1966). What an interesting story it was! Emily becomes the spokesperson who discovers the generations of dark family secrets which unravel as the story progresses. I will eagerly watch for future books from Ms.Polli!
July 25, 2017
I received this book in a giveaway and really enjoyed it. The complexity of a family with secrets and how each character is molded as a result and the relationship between the characters, all women, is great. This is a story about a woman, her 3 daughters and her granddaughter. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys strong female characters.
May 12, 2015
I received an ARC of this book. Heart-warming account of the women of a Polish immigrant family. The many twists and turns in their lives are adroitly written into a woven story that touches your heart. Highly recommended.
March 17, 2015
poignant and unforgettable family saga
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