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Em Thuộc Về Anh
Ở tuổi ba mươi sáu, Marian Caldwell tạo dựng được một cuộc sống tưởng như hoàn hảo. Cho tới cái đêm cô buộc phải đối diện một bí mật cô đã cố gắng chôn vùi suốt mười tám năm...
Kirby Rose - cô bé mười tám tuổi được cho đi làm con nuôi từ thuở lọt lòng - luôn cảm thấy lạc lõng giữa cái gia đình tràn trề tình yêu nhưng không cùng máu mủ. Trước ngưỡng cửa vào đời, cô quyết định tìm lại nguồn gốc.
Cánh cửa quá khứ miễn cưỡng mở ra để một lần nữa buộc những người trong cuộc nhìn nhận những chuyển đã qua dưới một ánh sáng mới. Những ngộ nhận, day dứt, tiếc nuối và cả những đam mê nhen lên từ đống tro tàn đã được lột tả vô cùng tinh tế. Không chỉ chứa đựng những tình tiết lắt léo và cảm xúc phức tạp vốn là sở trường của ngòi bút Emily Giffin.
Cuốn sách còn là một câu hỏi lớn: rốt cuộc, trải nghiệm hay việc đạt được mục tiêu mới làm nên ý nghĩa cuộc đời? Và, trái tim hay lý trí mới đưa ta về đúng chỗ?
Kirby Rose - cô bé mười tám tuổi được cho đi làm con nuôi từ thuở lọt lòng - luôn cảm thấy lạc lõng giữa cái gia đình tràn trề tình yêu nhưng không cùng máu mủ. Trước ngưỡng cửa vào đời, cô quyết định tìm lại nguồn gốc.
Cánh cửa quá khứ miễn cưỡng mở ra để một lần nữa buộc những người trong cuộc nhìn nhận những chuyển đã qua dưới một ánh sáng mới. Những ngộ nhận, day dứt, tiếc nuối và cả những đam mê nhen lên từ đống tro tàn đã được lột tả vô cùng tinh tế. Không chỉ chứa đựng những tình tiết lắt léo và cảm xúc phức tạp vốn là sở trường của ngòi bút Emily Giffin.
Cuốn sách còn là một câu hỏi lớn: rốt cuộc, trải nghiệm hay việc đạt được mục tiêu mới làm nên ý nghĩa cuộc đời? Và, trái tim hay lý trí mới đưa ta về đúng chỗ?
434 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
2004 people are currently reading
70787 people want to read
About the author
Emily Giffin
39 books25.4k followersEMILY GIFFIN is a graduate of Wake Forest University and the University of Virginia School of Law. The #1 New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, Baby Proof, Love the One You're With, Heart of the Matter, Where We Belong, The One & Only, First Comes Love, All We Ever Wanted, The Lies That Bind, and the recently released Meant to Be, she currently lives in Atlanta with her family.
Website: www.emilygiffin.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EmilyGiffinFans
Twitter: https://twitter.com/emilygiffin
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/emilygiffina...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,916 reviews
December 30, 2019
More often than not I come across a book I really don't love. When I find a book I love my spinning world stops. Kids, friends, and even dishes are ignored. I find myself glued to my Kindle and forgetting everything else around me. Laying awake in bed at 1:00am not thinking of the fact that i have to be up at 5:00 am to meet with clients. When this rare event does occur I am at my happiest. There are few greater joys for me than finding a book I absolutely can not put down. This recently occurred after purchasing Ms. Emily Giffin's "Where We Belong". I have read every single book Ms. Giffin has published and was especially excited for this book, because I received small taste in the back of one of her other recent books. Normally, I completely shy away from books that take turns sharing the character's perspective, however Ms. Giffin pulls it off very nicely. Smoothly enough that I believe she broadened her reading audience by the small maneuver. I really loved this book. I loved that it wasn't completely predictable and that it dealt with things that people deal with everyday and still remain normal. I appreciated the missing dramatic tragedy and got to take the characters for what they were worth and grow with them. While I will not give away any spoilers, I will say the book fell a little flat with the ending. I have never liked the lets end the book when the reader knows the character is going to be okay and let the reader come to her on conclusions on the future. I am the reader who loves the happy ever after. I like knowing instead of speculating. While this didn't bring down the tone of the book, it definitely left me wanting more.
September 2, 2012
This is the most appalling book I have read in a long time. I read a lot of great reviews on amazon about it, but I had not understood this is the kind of author who apparently has a group of fervent fans who tend to review with exaggerated enthusiasm. The moral side of the story is appalling, the characters are flat, the class-divide is stereotyping and shallow, the men are all strong and reassuring, the girls all die for a good dress, with the supposedly rebel girl who acknowledges that deep down she actually loves all the conventional things she was reacting against... I just wanted to scream all the way. Especially reading this book after the exceptional 'Sharp objects' by Gillian Flynn - that's writing.
December 29, 2018
I really liked Where We Belong, a story in which Marian must face long buried feelings about a tough decision she made years ago, while Kirby, a high school senior, deals with addressing deep questions about her true identity.
Marian has worked hard for her successful, composed life and seems to have it all. Kirby is unsure of her plans after high school and doesn’t necessarily want to go to college. She also often feels like an outsider in her own family. I saw some of myself in Marian though I didn’t always agree with her actions, and Kirby grew on me as the story progressed. Where We Belong was touching and a great reminder that although we can bury our feelings, ultimately the best decision is to embrace them - good, bad or ugly, and be honest with ourselves.
”Even if we no longer have much in common, we would have always had the past, which, in some ways, is just as important as the present or future. It is where we come from, what makes us who we are.”
I am now 3/3 with Emily Giffin books. While I’ve known of her for years, she is an author new to me in 2018, as a reader. Despite somewhat predictable elements in her 3 books I’ve read thus far, I have thoroughly enjoyed each of them. She creates realistic characters and while they aren’t always likeable, their actions and thoughts are often relatable. I look forward to reading more from her.
Marian has worked hard for her successful, composed life and seems to have it all. Kirby is unsure of her plans after high school and doesn’t necessarily want to go to college. She also often feels like an outsider in her own family. I saw some of myself in Marian though I didn’t always agree with her actions, and Kirby grew on me as the story progressed. Where We Belong was touching and a great reminder that although we can bury our feelings, ultimately the best decision is to embrace them - good, bad or ugly, and be honest with ourselves.
”Even if we no longer have much in common, we would have always had the past, which, in some ways, is just as important as the present or future. It is where we come from, what makes us who we are.”
I am now 3/3 with Emily Giffin books. While I’ve known of her for years, she is an author new to me in 2018, as a reader. Despite somewhat predictable elements in her 3 books I’ve read thus far, I have thoroughly enjoyed each of them. She creates realistic characters and while they aren’t always likeable, their actions and thoughts are often relatable. I look forward to reading more from her.
August 24, 2012
For the first time, I was NOT blown away by an Emily Giffin novel. I have read every one that she has written, and always eagerly await her newest one, as I did with "Where We Belong." Unfortunately, this time the payoff was a bit disappointing. The novel starts out slowly (I was bored) and did little to make me care about Marion or Peter or their relationship and histories until, about 70 pages into the book, Kirby arrives. Finally, the story took off and I enjoyed a few hundred pages that followed. Marion was a single girl, madly in love with Conrad when they were 18. Kirby is the result of that love but Conrad never knew she had been conceived, and Marion knew nothing about Kirby, other than she had given birth to her, and relinquished her to be adopted at birth.
Kirby was the best character, a really plucky, spunky, tough on the outside girl trying to figure out her life and where she would fit in. I loved her guidance counselor, Mr. Tully, at her high school. He was someone who had total faith in Kirby and encouraged her to go to college. Kirby and Marion get to know each other, slowly. There are complications (like Peter, grandparents, Conrad) and all of that made for a good read.
Ah, but then came the ending which left me feeling as if someone started to tell me a secret, and then didn't finish the sentence. We don't know how this story ends. I felt betrayed by Emily Giffin for leaving me hanging. All I can think is that a sequel is in the works. If not, her unfinished ending makes me think less of her as a writer. I say this as a former HUGE fan! I hope she is busy writing the sequel. If not, I will give her one more chance in whatever she produces in the next year or two, but I will be fearful that she, like so many young writers lately, is banking on her name, rather than her true talent, to sell her books. She IS talented, but she didn't use her talent as well as in the past in this one. It was ok, but only because the middle to near the end were really fun.
Kirby was the best character, a really plucky, spunky, tough on the outside girl trying to figure out her life and where she would fit in. I loved her guidance counselor, Mr. Tully, at her high school. He was someone who had total faith in Kirby and encouraged her to go to college. Kirby and Marion get to know each other, slowly. There are complications (like Peter, grandparents, Conrad) and all of that made for a good read.
Ah, but then came the ending which left me feeling as if someone started to tell me a secret, and then didn't finish the sentence. We don't know how this story ends. I felt betrayed by Emily Giffin for leaving me hanging. All I can think is that a sequel is in the works. If not, her unfinished ending makes me think less of her as a writer. I say this as a former HUGE fan! I hope she is busy writing the sequel. If not, I will give her one more chance in whatever she produces in the next year or two, but I will be fearful that she, like so many young writers lately, is banking on her name, rather than her true talent, to sell her books. She IS talented, but she didn't use her talent as well as in the past in this one. It was ok, but only because the middle to near the end were really fun.
July 28, 2012
Ugh. What a disappointment. How many ways was i disappointed?! I love this author - i think she writes smart chick lit. Not an easy feat! Her characters are well=written, realistic and her writing is very true. I always feel like i walk away with something when i read her books. I was really looking forward to her new book and then i read it. it started out interesting - Marian lead a fascinating life in NYC as a producer of a popular tv show - she wants to marry her boyfriend, he is hesitant...then we meet Kirby. Marian's 18 year old daughter who she put up for adoption. The book goes back and forth between the two characters - each narrating a chapter. I really did not like EITHER of these chracters. I though Kirby was a total brat at first and there was no depth whatsoever to Marian. Who takes their long lost daughter to BARNEYS to shop the first time she meets her?! It never really gets any better and in fact, the last 50 pages i just breezed through. No doubt about it, this was a book all about adoption. I also felt this was MUCH more Kirby's story than Marion's. I didn't feel like we really got to know this shallow woman - perhaps because half of the book was written from Kirby's point-of-view. This book was so focused on Kirby - i would even say this was a YA book. Such a disappointment to a book i was SO looking forward to...
October 1, 2012
I have been a fan of Giffin's writing because her prose evokes emotions and connection with the characters. I have liked most of her books. I'm not sure how I feel about this book, though. I was most interested in how the main character, Marian, would interact with her teenage love. This didn't happen until the last few pages of the book. I had hoped to see where this relationship went. It was of the most interest to me. The rest of the book was fleshed out nicely, I just felt that another 100 pages was needed to wrap up loose ends and see where the parent's relationship went in the present. I was left feeling disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2012
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. I'd seen emily giffin's books are bestsellers. I do not read what is generally called "chick lit" (a term i find rather disconcerting) but wanted to give her books a chance. So this was my opportunity, and i do appreciate receiving this free copy. That being said, Where I Belong was a rather contrived, simplisitic story. I truly felt the story line was something a 9th grader could easily conceive of, and not something a successful author would bother to take the time to turn into a novel. I do not understand how writing like this can make someone a New York Times bestselling author, but so be it. Any novel that begins with a successful, attractive television producer dating a gorgeous network CEO is going to be hard to swallow for me. The last few lines of the novel were somewhat redeeming, as every single character didnt receive the Cinderella ending, but even so, I just require more depth and character development in what I read. This isnt literature or a work of art by any means. It is something to pass the time, and if you are a fan of this so called "chick lit" genre ( how does being a chick have anything to do with reading a mindless, insipid story? that is simply insulting.) you will probably not be disappointed. Clearly there are many many 5 star reviews of this book by readers who look for alot less from what they read.
August 24, 2012
Contains Spoilers
I have been a long time fan of Emily Giffin's books. Something Borrowed and Something Blue will always be my all time favorites. However, her books have seemed to go downhill lately. Heart of the Matter was the first time where she introduced a story that was told from two points of view. I thoroughly enjoyed that book and it looks like she tried to create the same success by writing from two points of view again.
However, she failed.
Marion is incredibly unlikable and unrelatable. I found myself relating more to Kirby, Kirby had spunk, however, the adoption issue overshadowed the whole book for me. Giffin's views on adoption are entirely cliche' and have no real bearing on true adoptions. Not all adoptees feel lost, and not all people that choose adoption for their child hide the fact from every single person except for their mother. Kirby's feelings seemed to be something that Giffin picked up from advice column's or some other fluff area and didn't seem to have any merrit.
I think if she had done some true research into adoption and the true feelings associated with the process, then the book would have been better.
The part that disgusted me the MOST about this book is that Marion kept the adoption secret from the birth father for Kirby's entire life, and then Kirby and Marion show up on the birth father's doorstep and go out to lunch. I enjoy the fact that Kirby and her father have potential for a birth father/daughter relationship going forward. That's about all that I enjoyed from that part of the book.
At the end of the book, Giffin leaves the door open for a romance between the birth parents... REALLY??? WHY would ANYONE who was lied to about having a child want ANYTHING to do with the person that caused him so much pain EIGHTEEN YEARS after they first met? They met EIGHTEEN years ago, dated for a few weeks (when they were eighteen) and parted ways when Marion found out she was pregnant. And yet... we are supposed to assume that there is lingering love there, AFTER the birth father found out about the eighteen year lie??? I don't think so.
It doesn't make any sense to me. I will be incredibly dissappointed if there is a sequel about a romance between Marion and Condrad.
One other thing that I usually enjoy is the updates from characters from prior books thrown into her new books. This update was not like any of the others, this update from prior characters was just thrown into one chapter of the book at a group dinner. There was no context to the update, it was almost as if she just HAD to update SOME CHARACTER and she just chose an outing to say "oh hey, this is so an so, and this is where they are now".
As a long time fan, I am very dissappointed in this book. I'm actually sorry that I pre ordered it and paid extra shipping to have it on my doorstep on the day it came out.
I have been a long time fan of Emily Giffin's books. Something Borrowed and Something Blue will always be my all time favorites. However, her books have seemed to go downhill lately. Heart of the Matter was the first time where she introduced a story that was told from two points of view. I thoroughly enjoyed that book and it looks like she tried to create the same success by writing from two points of view again.
However, she failed.
Marion is incredibly unlikable and unrelatable. I found myself relating more to Kirby, Kirby had spunk, however, the adoption issue overshadowed the whole book for me. Giffin's views on adoption are entirely cliche' and have no real bearing on true adoptions. Not all adoptees feel lost, and not all people that choose adoption for their child hide the fact from every single person except for their mother. Kirby's feelings seemed to be something that Giffin picked up from advice column's or some other fluff area and didn't seem to have any merrit.
I think if she had done some true research into adoption and the true feelings associated with the process, then the book would have been better.
The part that disgusted me the MOST about this book is that Marion kept the adoption secret from the birth father for Kirby's entire life, and then Kirby and Marion show up on the birth father's doorstep and go out to lunch. I enjoy the fact that Kirby and her father have potential for a birth father/daughter relationship going forward. That's about all that I enjoyed from that part of the book.
At the end of the book, Giffin leaves the door open for a romance between the birth parents... REALLY??? WHY would ANYONE who was lied to about having a child want ANYTHING to do with the person that caused him so much pain EIGHTEEN YEARS after they first met? They met EIGHTEEN years ago, dated for a few weeks (when they were eighteen) and parted ways when Marion found out she was pregnant. And yet... we are supposed to assume that there is lingering love there, AFTER the birth father found out about the eighteen year lie??? I don't think so.
It doesn't make any sense to me. I will be incredibly dissappointed if there is a sequel about a romance between Marion and Condrad.
One other thing that I usually enjoy is the updates from characters from prior books thrown into her new books. This update was not like any of the others, this update from prior characters was just thrown into one chapter of the book at a group dinner. There was no context to the update, it was almost as if she just HAD to update SOME CHARACTER and she just chose an outing to say "oh hey, this is so an so, and this is where they are now".
As a long time fan, I am very dissappointed in this book. I'm actually sorry that I pre ordered it and paid extra shipping to have it on my doorstep on the day it came out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2021
I always love Emily Giffin books for their complexity. She has a way of taking a group of characters on a journey and examining an issue from multiple viewpoints... really wringing it out until there's nothing left to be taken from the experience.
And this time, that subject was adoption and the effect on everyone involved. We open from the viewpoint of Marian, the birth mother, which was a great perspective, particularly in that (very small spoiler) we get to see her reaction as she gets a surprise of someone she isn't expecting to see appearing on her doorstep at the end of an emotional evening. I think it wouldn't have packed the same emotional punch in the reverse.
Kirby has struggled to fit in with the family that has raised her. HER family. She isn't like them, even though she loves them, and in the wake of hurtful words and with the decision of what to do for college looming, she makes the decision to seek her birth mother out. I liked the twists and turns in this.
And this time, that subject was adoption and the effect on everyone involved. We open from the viewpoint of Marian, the birth mother, which was a great perspective, particularly in that (very small spoiler) we get to see her reaction as she gets a surprise of someone she isn't expecting to see appearing on her doorstep at the end of an emotional evening. I think it wouldn't have packed the same emotional punch in the reverse.
Kirby has struggled to fit in with the family that has raised her. HER family. She isn't like them, even though she loves them, and in the wake of hurtful words and with the decision of what to do for college looming, she makes the decision to seek her birth mother out. I liked the twists and turns in this.
May 1, 2020
“Where we belong is often where we least expect to find ourselves—a place that we may have willed ourselves to forget, but that the heart remembers forever.”
― Emily Giffin, Where We Belong
Spoilers will be all over this review:
So I have loved this writer’s duel books, something borrowed and Something blue.
I also loved her book, Baby proof.
The only book I dislike by her is Love The one you’re with.
I am in the middle on this. It is a sweet story. Mother and daughter find each other. There is a bit of charm to the story and it was ok as a quick read.
But it did not wow me. I thought it was a cute read. But the characters did not reach out through the book and touch me as in some of her other books.
Then again the story did not pull me in or interest me as much as some of her others as well.
Not that Where we belong is bad. Not at all.
It is just not a favorite..like the others.
― Emily Giffin, Where We Belong
Spoilers will be all over this review:
So I have loved this writer’s duel books, something borrowed and Something blue.
I also loved her book, Baby proof.
The only book I dislike by her is Love The one you’re with.
I am in the middle on this. It is a sweet story. Mother and daughter find each other. There is a bit of charm to the story and it was ok as a quick read.
But it did not wow me. I thought it was a cute read. But the characters did not reach out through the book and touch me as in some of her other books.
Then again the story did not pull me in or interest me as much as some of her others as well.
Not that Where we belong is bad. Not at all.
It is just not a favorite..like the others.
March 7, 2018
It's been a while since I've read a book by Emily Giffin and I have no idea why!
Where We Belong was so freaking good! The characters were amazing! I was hooked from the very start and I right now I have no idea what day is or month. I just fell in love with this book and for some reason it just felt perfectly written! I don't think I've ever said about a book from start to finish but I swear this book was it!
Okay so it’s basically about this mom who is suddenly reunited with the kid who she put up for adoption 18 years ago. Talk about shocking and mini heart attacks. Now I know this sort of things does happen but I also have no idea what I would do if I was ever out in that situation.
Now Marian, the Mom, has kept her daughter a secret from everyone. Her new boyfriend. Her first love (who is the dad). Meanwhile once I have alcohol every secret someone ever told me or that I had would be out in the open.
This book is a dual POV from both Miriam and Kirby. I really enjoyed seeing them get to know each other and develop a relationship. I also really liked seeing Marian’s relationship with Conrad (baby daddy) which did end up breaking my heart a little bit.
In the end, you’ll end up rooting for a happy ending for everyone. Just like me.
Overall?
The beginning? Amazing.
The middle? AMAZING.
The ending? Completely perfect!
I have zero complaints about this book and that's saying a lot. Maybe it's because I just happened to read such amazing books today but I'm in SUCH a good mood. I need more books from Emily STAT!
Where We Belong was so freaking good! The characters were amazing! I was hooked from the very start and I right now I have no idea what day is or month. I just fell in love with this book and for some reason it just felt perfectly written! I don't think I've ever said about a book from start to finish but I swear this book was it!
Okay so it’s basically about this mom who is suddenly reunited with the kid who she put up for adoption 18 years ago. Talk about shocking and mini heart attacks. Now I know this sort of things does happen but I also have no idea what I would do if I was ever out in that situation.
Now Marian, the Mom, has kept her daughter a secret from everyone. Her new boyfriend. Her first love (who is the dad). Meanwhile once I have alcohol every secret someone ever told me or that I had would be out in the open.
This book is a dual POV from both Miriam and Kirby. I really enjoyed seeing them get to know each other and develop a relationship. I also really liked seeing Marian’s relationship with Conrad (baby daddy) which did end up breaking my heart a little bit.
In the end, you’ll end up rooting for a happy ending for everyone. Just like me.
Overall?
The beginning? Amazing.
The middle? AMAZING.
The ending? Completely perfect!
I have zero complaints about this book and that's saying a lot. Maybe it's because I just happened to read such amazing books today but I'm in SUCH a good mood. I need more books from Emily STAT!
July 1, 2012
I won this as an ARC from Goodreads and was so excited to read it. Since you can easily look above to read the description of the book I'm going to skip over telling you all about it to get to what you want, the review.
I have been a fan of Giffin's work since her first book and have read all of them but her last release. This book did not disappoint. I felt that the characters were relatable, though I didn't necessarily agree with all of their decisions. That is what makes Giffin's stories so interesting. She doesn't take the easy route, she makes things realistic to true life. I loved the back story flashbacks, without it the book wouldn't have worked. I really enjoyed seeing the same story line from the perspective of 2 people.
This is a book I will definitely be recommending to my friends.
I have been a fan of Giffin's work since her first book and have read all of them but her last release. This book did not disappoint. I felt that the characters were relatable, though I didn't necessarily agree with all of their decisions. That is what makes Giffin's stories so interesting. She doesn't take the easy route, she makes things realistic to true life. I loved the back story flashbacks, without it the book wouldn't have worked. I really enjoyed seeing the same story line from the perspective of 2 people.
This is a book I will definitely be recommending to my friends.
June 22, 2016
3.5 Stars
A book about broken relationships being placed back together again. Marian Caldwell is a hotshot TV producer living the life in NYC, when one night a knock on her door changes everything. Kirby Rose (the most beautiful name!) standing there wanting an answer, but more importantly, acceptance. As the book progresses, we flash back and forth between past and present, alternating between the two voices chapter after chapter.
Lighter book, perfect for summer reading. I listened on audio, and the narration was spot on! I may have enjoyed this one a little more due to the audio. I was pleasantly happy reading this one and found myself satisfied with the path the author took me down.
A book about broken relationships being placed back together again. Marian Caldwell is a hotshot TV producer living the life in NYC, when one night a knock on her door changes everything. Kirby Rose (the most beautiful name!) standing there wanting an answer, but more importantly, acceptance. As the book progresses, we flash back and forth between past and present, alternating between the two voices chapter after chapter.
Lighter book, perfect for summer reading. I listened on audio, and the narration was spot on! I may have enjoyed this one a little more due to the audio. I was pleasantly happy reading this one and found myself satisfied with the path the author took me down.
December 17, 2014
Where We Belong is a standalone, chick-lit novel written by author Emily Giffin. This is the first book I have read by Ms. Giffin and I so enjoyed it. Where We Belong is a glimpse at how adoption has impacted the biological family, the adoptive family, and most of all the child: Kirby. It is sensitive and fairly realistic as far as the emotional aspect goes. I enjoyed the complexity of Kirby, I sympathized with the adoptive family and the suspense they undoubtedly endured during Kirby's personal journey, and I was entertained by the drama involving the biological parents. Past and present parallel storylines were featured in this novel and I felt completely engaged in both stories. I admire that Ms. Giffin . However, I thought things turned out quite well for Kirby, as ultimately, this was her story and her journey. If you think you may enjoy reading adoption through the eyes of a chick-lit writer, then add Where We Belong to your TBR list.
My favorite quote:
“I certainly never felt rejected because they had given me up. My parents knew nothing about my birth mother, yet always explained with certainty that she didn't "give me up" or "give me away" - she made a plan for me, the best one she could make under her circumstances, whatever those were.”
My favorite quote:
“I certainly never felt rejected because they had given me up. My parents knew nothing about my birth mother, yet always explained with certainty that she didn't "give me up" or "give me away" - she made a plan for me, the best one she could make under her circumstances, whatever those were.”
June 25, 2012
The story was a bit cliched: Kirby, an adopted daughter (the "ugly duckling" of her adopted family) seeks her birth mother Marian. It seemed too easy that Kirby and Marian would strike up an easy friendship, that their relationship would develop so quickly and simply - and that Kirby wouldn't have more anger toward Marian once she sees the lavish life Marian lives as a network television producer in New York City. When together they seek out Kirby's birth father (who didn't know he fathered a child), the story fails to bring any real issues, emotion, or substance to the table. The one character I would've liked to know more about was Kirby's adoptive mother; her side of this story wasn't explored and I could only imagine the discomfort, pain, and worry she must have felt as Kirby sought out her birth parents. To me, the story of Kirby's adoptive mother would have added a welcome layer of complexity and richness to the novel, and as a mother myself I felt the most for her character. I won't say more, I don't want to give away any plot points. Giffin is a VERY popular author and I know friends who are crazy for her books. My criticisms could be particular to me and I should admit I had these same issues with SOMETHING BORROWED, the only other Giffin novel I've read - and I should note that Entertainment Weekly gave WHERE WE BELONG a glowing review. It's well-written and mildly entertaining but neither the plot nor the characters manage any true depth. It's probably a great summer read for those who enjoy a good story without too many complications.
August 23, 2012
Are you not reading this book because the author set her assistant and her fans on the negative reviewers? Don't worry; you're not missing much. The main adult character is another woman who has a high-powered job she doesn't much like and wants a real relationship (presumably like EG's other characters, she will quit her job as soon as she marries and has a child). There's the wrong man! Then there's the right man! Then there's no tension whatsoever.
June 11, 2012
I was ecstatic to receive an advance copy of this book to review, because I really loved Emily Giffin's other two books I read. Well, I LIKED "Something Borrowed" but I did love "Something Blue," the follow up book...something about getting both sides of a story is satisfying. Also, it's not really both SIDES of a story, just two different perspectives, because whatever Giffin's faults may be, she seems to have a good grasp of empathy and why nothing in love and friendship and human relationships is as black and white as we sometimes make it out to be. I definitely loved that aspect of her books, but I have to be honest, I couldn't relate to her characters much. I mean, as a human being with struggles I could relate to them on that level, but I come from a dirt-poor background and somehow seeing a character turn up her nose at earrings from Tiffany's because she didn't like the SHAPE of them kind of made me throw up in my mouth a little bit. That's not to say I don't think that upper class people don't deserve books about their lives and struggles, I do, it's just that I saw Giffin's talent and was hoping that someday she'd try her hand at writing a book with characters I could more easily relate to.
I said all that to say this: Giffin fans rejoice, that day has come! While Marian is definitely affluent and doesn't worry about money, Kirby and her family are decidedly on the lower end of middle-class, and there's a great exchange where Kirby, an 18 year old adoptee who seeks out Marian, her birth mother, in hopes of building some kind of relationship, returns a bunch of expensive clothes that Marian buys her not because she doesn't like the clothes, but because accepting them makes her uncomfortable. It's a great moment in the book. It's clear that Marian doesn't know what to do when the baby she gave up for adoption shows up at her door 18 years later. Marian opted to keep her address current with the adoption agency in case the child wanted to contact her someday, so she knew this day might come, but she's still unprepared for the emotions and awkwardness that happen when Kirby, not a child but a young woman, shows up at her apartment one night. Marian kind of freaks out and does what she's done for a long time when problems have shown up: she tries to solve them with money and avoid any deeper contact because she's unsure of how else to express her feelings. Marian isn't a bad person, she's a flawed person who has everything she SHOULD want in life but isn't sure why she feels something is missing. She's a successful writer for a television show, she has a doting boyfriend who is equally affluent (though he seems unsure about committing to marriage) and Marian doesn't really know if these things are what she wants out of life. As a Natasha Josefowitz poem I once read puts it: "I have arrived...is this where I was going?"
For Kirby's part, she hasn't really grown up feeling ostracized because she's adopted. Her parents are clearly very loving, in a stable marriage, and they treat their two daughters (one adopted, one not) as equally as any parent can. If Kirby gets treated differently at all it's not because she's adopted, it's because she's very rebellious and difficult to deal with. She doesn't do drugs or party, but she doesn't apply herself in school even though she could ace most classes if she wanted to, and she rebels against her parents' offer to pay to send her to college because she's not sure what she wants to do in life and she doesn't know if college will help her decide that. Furthermore, she purposely pushes back against her parents at every turn, picking fights and throwing the fact that she's adopted in their faces because she knows that it will upset them to hear her say that they look down on her because she's not "really their kid," even though she knows this isn't true. I really think Kirby does this because she's a teenager. Her parents try to support her, but they don't understand that things like her love for music are more important to her than good grades, and that this could be a viable career for her because she has talent. Her parents don't mean to stifle her, they just don't get it, and likewise, Kirby doesn't mean to really hurt her parents, she's just frustrated and confused about her future. Kirby is on the cusp of a huge life change, graduation from high school, and she doesn't know where to go from there, and she takes her frustration and fear out on her parents. She fantasizes about what her birth parents might be like, if that's where she gets her passion for music, if they would understand her better, if finding her "real parents" might help her life make more sense. In other words, she dreams that the grass might be greener on the other side of the hill because she knows the grass on her side so well and she wonders what else is out there.
These characters are vastly different, but when they come together, their interactions teach them both a lot of lessons about love and life and family. there are a lot of twists and turns in the plot here, including a huge secret surrounding her pregnancy that Marian has kept to herself for over 18 years. Finding out what really happened back then, and what needs to happen now, forms the plot of this novel, and it was fascinating. I couldn't put it down, honestly, except when I passed out to sleep with the book in my hands because I was exhausted but wanted to keep reading. I highly recommend that fans of Emily Giffin's other books seek this one out, and even those who haven't read Giffin's work in the past might want to give this one a chance. I had already planned to buy this book when it came out, and getting an advance copy turned out to be a great gift, because I loved this book even more than I thought I would. Bravo, Emily Giffin. You made my day not just as a fan of YOUR books but as a fan of all books.
I said all that to say this: Giffin fans rejoice, that day has come! While Marian is definitely affluent and doesn't worry about money, Kirby and her family are decidedly on the lower end of middle-class, and there's a great exchange where Kirby, an 18 year old adoptee who seeks out Marian, her birth mother, in hopes of building some kind of relationship, returns a bunch of expensive clothes that Marian buys her not because she doesn't like the clothes, but because accepting them makes her uncomfortable. It's a great moment in the book. It's clear that Marian doesn't know what to do when the baby she gave up for adoption shows up at her door 18 years later. Marian opted to keep her address current with the adoption agency in case the child wanted to contact her someday, so she knew this day might come, but she's still unprepared for the emotions and awkwardness that happen when Kirby, not a child but a young woman, shows up at her apartment one night. Marian kind of freaks out and does what she's done for a long time when problems have shown up: she tries to solve them with money and avoid any deeper contact because she's unsure of how else to express her feelings. Marian isn't a bad person, she's a flawed person who has everything she SHOULD want in life but isn't sure why she feels something is missing. She's a successful writer for a television show, she has a doting boyfriend who is equally affluent (though he seems unsure about committing to marriage) and Marian doesn't really know if these things are what she wants out of life. As a Natasha Josefowitz poem I once read puts it: "I have arrived...is this where I was going?"
For Kirby's part, she hasn't really grown up feeling ostracized because she's adopted. Her parents are clearly very loving, in a stable marriage, and they treat their two daughters (one adopted, one not) as equally as any parent can. If Kirby gets treated differently at all it's not because she's adopted, it's because she's very rebellious and difficult to deal with. She doesn't do drugs or party, but she doesn't apply herself in school even though she could ace most classes if she wanted to, and she rebels against her parents' offer to pay to send her to college because she's not sure what she wants to do in life and she doesn't know if college will help her decide that. Furthermore, she purposely pushes back against her parents at every turn, picking fights and throwing the fact that she's adopted in their faces because she knows that it will upset them to hear her say that they look down on her because she's not "really their kid," even though she knows this isn't true. I really think Kirby does this because she's a teenager. Her parents try to support her, but they don't understand that things like her love for music are more important to her than good grades, and that this could be a viable career for her because she has talent. Her parents don't mean to stifle her, they just don't get it, and likewise, Kirby doesn't mean to really hurt her parents, she's just frustrated and confused about her future. Kirby is on the cusp of a huge life change, graduation from high school, and she doesn't know where to go from there, and she takes her frustration and fear out on her parents. She fantasizes about what her birth parents might be like, if that's where she gets her passion for music, if they would understand her better, if finding her "real parents" might help her life make more sense. In other words, she dreams that the grass might be greener on the other side of the hill because she knows the grass on her side so well and she wonders what else is out there.
These characters are vastly different, but when they come together, their interactions teach them both a lot of lessons about love and life and family. there are a lot of twists and turns in the plot here, including a huge secret surrounding her pregnancy that Marian has kept to herself for over 18 years. Finding out what really happened back then, and what needs to happen now, forms the plot of this novel, and it was fascinating. I couldn't put it down, honestly, except when I passed out to sleep with the book in my hands because I was exhausted but wanted to keep reading. I highly recommend that fans of Emily Giffin's other books seek this one out, and even those who haven't read Giffin's work in the past might want to give this one a chance. I had already planned to buy this book when it came out, and getting an advance copy turned out to be a great gift, because I loved this book even more than I thought I would. Bravo, Emily Giffin. You made my day not just as a fan of YOUR books but as a fan of all books.
November 13, 2012
Baby Proof was a really good book, so I keep reading Giffin's books hoping that another one will come close. I vowed no more after the last "someone cheated, was going to cheat, was forced to cheat" book, but as this one was not about cheating - I relented.
It truly astounds me when authors make throwaway comments in their books that add no value or context, but offend part of the audience. In my case, I did not need to see the term "Hoosier" being used as derogatory. Just didn't. Even if it is part of St. Louis slang, it does not belong in a novel with worldwide distribution. It was so unnecessary, too. It did not make the characters more believable or add authenticity in any way. Just was a stupid throwaway description that has officially and permanently taken this author off the list of books that I will read. It even had to be explained that the term was STL slang. If you have to explain it and it will offend the people reading your book in an entire state, how about if you just say "loser" instead and leave it at that?
Yet again, nothing original here and I agree with the reviewers who said a more satisfying ending was definitely needed. The changing perspective kept making me flip back to see who was talking, which got old on the iPad. Kirby was more annoying to me than she was likely supposed to be and the entire second half went exactly where you thought it would.
It truly astounds me when authors make throwaway comments in their books that add no value or context, but offend part of the audience. In my case, I did not need to see the term "Hoosier" being used as derogatory. Just didn't. Even if it is part of St. Louis slang, it does not belong in a novel with worldwide distribution. It was so unnecessary, too. It did not make the characters more believable or add authenticity in any way. Just was a stupid throwaway description that has officially and permanently taken this author off the list of books that I will read. It even had to be explained that the term was STL slang. If you have to explain it and it will offend the people reading your book in an entire state, how about if you just say "loser" instead and leave it at that?
Yet again, nothing original here and I agree with the reviewers who said a more satisfying ending was definitely needed. The changing perspective kept making me flip back to see who was talking, which got old on the iPad. Kirby was more annoying to me than she was likely supposed to be and the entire second half went exactly where you thought it would.
October 11, 2012
I'm not sure I ever would have picked up an Emily Giffin book had it not been for this being the September book club pick for my Muncie book club. Prior to now, her work was lumped on that pastel-hued shelf of chick lit authors I'd pass up in favor of other (what I considered smarter) reads on the bookshelf.
For what it's worth, I DID find myself getting sucked into the story: Marian, a 30-something NYC TV producer who has to deal with a knock on the door one night and the presence of a stranger who turns out to be her long-lost, 18-year-old daughter, Kirby. A daughter she gave up for adoption but never stopped thinking about. There are a few (predictable enough) plot twists in the book that I don't want to say too much about, only that I became a BIG fan of Conrad. (if you read it, you'll do the same, trust me ;) )
It's clear from the get-go that Giffin's books aren't meant to be serious reads. While the subject material does delve into serious matters, the writing is such that it reads more like a movie script than a serious novel.
And that's the thing, I'm sure it already IS a movie in the works. And sheepishly enough, while I didn't care to see her "Something Borrowed" adaptation in theaters (which I hear stunk), I might have to see this one. If only, remind you, because I REALLY want to know who gets cast to play Conrad!
For what it's worth, I DID find myself getting sucked into the story: Marian, a 30-something NYC TV producer who has to deal with a knock on the door one night and the presence of a stranger who turns out to be her long-lost, 18-year-old daughter, Kirby. A daughter she gave up for adoption but never stopped thinking about. There are a few (predictable enough) plot twists in the book that I don't want to say too much about, only that I became a BIG fan of Conrad. (if you read it, you'll do the same, trust me ;) )
It's clear from the get-go that Giffin's books aren't meant to be serious reads. While the subject material does delve into serious matters, the writing is such that it reads more like a movie script than a serious novel.
And that's the thing, I'm sure it already IS a movie in the works. And sheepishly enough, while I didn't care to see her "Something Borrowed" adaptation in theaters (which I hear stunk), I might have to see this one. If only, remind you, because I REALLY want to know who gets cast to play Conrad!
February 10, 2021
fasa fisoların en iyilerinden en azından.
September 25, 2012
I enjoyed this, ripped through it pretty quickly - it was well-written and entertaining.
Despite my enjoyment I shall now proceed to nitpick, whee!
1. The novel was told in the present tense, but peppered with flashbacks, told in the past tense. This is a bad idea - even if you do get it spot on (and I noticed a few times where it didn't) it always seems jarring. But it was mainly only in issue in about the first third of the book, where most of the flashbacks happened.
2. The author used the word 'deadpan' or 'deadpanned' quite a lot, occasionally to mean 'saying something in a serious way when it's a joke', but often to just mean 'saying something in a serious way'. I kept hunting for jokes that weren't there.
3. The plot was a tiny bit predictable. I knew from the START that Marian would ditch Mr. Nice Rich Eminently Suitable Match for Badboy Flame From the Past, and not just because this has begun to show up as a bit of a theme in Emily Giffin's books. Still. I don't mind a bit of predictability.
4. The ending was a bit up-in-the-air. I felt gypped that we never got to view the inevitable conclusion to all that sexual tension between Marian and Conrad, but on the other hand I can kind of see why the author didn't go there. Would've made it all just a bit too twee and happily-ever-after, plus it would've dragged out the ending.
Despite my enjoyment I shall now proceed to nitpick, whee!
1. The novel was told in the present tense, but peppered with flashbacks, told in the past tense. This is a bad idea - even if you do get it spot on (and I noticed a few times where it didn't) it always seems jarring. But it was mainly only in issue in about the first third of the book, where most of the flashbacks happened.
2. The author used the word 'deadpan' or 'deadpanned' quite a lot, occasionally to mean 'saying something in a serious way when it's a joke', but often to just mean 'saying something in a serious way'. I kept hunting for jokes that weren't there.
3. The plot was a tiny bit predictable. I knew from the START that Marian would ditch Mr. Nice Rich Eminently Suitable Match for Badboy Flame From the Past, and not just because this has begun to show up as a bit of a theme in Emily Giffin's books. Still. I don't mind a bit of predictability.
4. The ending was a bit up-in-the-air. I felt gypped that we never got to view the inevitable conclusion to all that sexual tension between Marian and Conrad, but on the other hand I can kind of see why the author didn't go there. Would've made it all just a bit too twee and happily-ever-after, plus it would've dragged out the ending.
September 3, 2012
I had read Something Borrowed a few years ago, and remembered liking it. So when I was looking for something to read at an airport, I bought the Kindle version of this book. It was okay for a light, quick read, but didn't really grab my attention. Basically, I forgot I had even read it until I heard about the Internet drama regarding Giffin's husband defending her from a 1 star review on Amazon.
Regardless of the drama, Where We Belong starts really slowly. Our main character, Kirby, has an adoptive family that (of course!) had a biological child right after she was born. Bio Kid is just like the parents, leaving Kirby to wonder what her parents were like... Enter Kirby's search for her Biological Parents. Luckily for her, she finds out her Bio Mom, Marion, is a wealthy TV producer who just wants to take Kirby shopping. Bio Dad never knew that Marion was pregnant, and is excited to build a relationship with Kirby.
It all just seemed a little Lifetime movie-ish to me, and I just didn't feel emotionally connected to any of the characters (particularly shallow Marion whom I actively disliked). When the ending happened, I didn't feel satisfied-- in fact, I originally wondered if my ebook hadn't downloaded all of the way. I wouldn't recommend.
Regardless of the drama, Where We Belong starts really slowly. Our main character, Kirby, has an adoptive family that (of course!) had a biological child right after she was born. Bio Kid is just like the parents, leaving Kirby to wonder what her parents were like... Enter Kirby's search for her Biological Parents. Luckily for her, she finds out her Bio Mom, Marion, is a wealthy TV producer who just wants to take Kirby shopping. Bio Dad never knew that Marion was pregnant, and is excited to build a relationship with Kirby.
It all just seemed a little Lifetime movie-ish to me, and I just didn't feel emotionally connected to any of the characters (particularly shallow Marion whom I actively disliked). When the ending happened, I didn't feel satisfied-- in fact, I originally wondered if my ebook hadn't downloaded all of the way. I wouldn't recommend.
November 9, 2012
I picked this up because it was one of the finalists for the GoodReads best of the year books. I don't know who chose those books but I need to have a little chat with them. Where We Belong was predictable, boring and completely unoriginal. It is the story of an adopted girl turning 18 and finding her birth parents. Every character was honorable and good and always made decisions that were in the best interest of everyone. They had moments of jealousy (and a few other human emotions) but they quickly quashed those feelings for the good of everyone, which was both unrealistic and boring. There was a lot of eye-rolling going on over here.
I was not impressed by the author's attempt to write from an 18-year-old girl's point of view and I was not impressed by the author's total lack of faith in her audience. She really loves to over-write dialog and then spend a paragraph explaining what just happened during that dialog. Overall, I would not recommend this book and I can't fathom why it would make it to any list of the 'best-of' books.
I was not impressed by the author's attempt to write from an 18-year-old girl's point of view and I was not impressed by the author's total lack of faith in her audience. She really loves to over-write dialog and then spend a paragraph explaining what just happened during that dialog. Overall, I would not recommend this book and I can't fathom why it would make it to any list of the 'best-of' books.
August 2, 2017
Snažno emotivna, topla životna priča u kojoj vjerujem svako može pronaći barem jednu situaciju koju je doživio, zapitao se da li je postupio dobro ili ne... Ovaj roman te odgovore nudi, jednostavno kakav život zapravo treba i biti, posebno ako ćemo se držati pravila da treba slušati samo svoje srce. Ako volite dobre porodične drame Gifin je napisala jednu savršenu, a od mene ide čista petica i velika preporuka.
November 8, 2016
Might be hovering somewhere around the 3.5 Mark… I enjoyed certain elements of the story but some of it didn't deliver. What is your favorite Emily Giffin book?
August 6, 2012
Where We Belong was my most anticipated novel this year. Sometimes, anticipated novels don't live up to the expectations you have for a novel you were looking forward to. Where We Belong was most definitely an exception. I think this is probably Emily Giffin's best novel to date. Even though her fifth novel, Heart of the Matter, is my favorite of her's, this is one story, I think everyone can love, and I think it is tied for first because they are such different stories.
I started reading Emily Giffin's novels a year or so ago. I have always had a soft spot for a good, realistic story, which touches you, even if you can't personally relate. I picked up Giffin's novels because, I have to admit, her color-scheme on her novels caught my eye, and stood out. I resisted because I was in graduate school at the time, and told myself, "Just wait...Summer break will be here soon enough, and you can read them." I think her newest novel, her fifth, Heart of the Matter" had just been released recently, and when I found out she only had five novels, I was immediately bummed, and...a little sad.
I found out earlier this year, Emily Giffin was working on a new novel, which would be titled Where We Belong. I didn't know what to expect, except it was about adoption. I bought this novel the day it was released, and finished the book I was reading first before immersing myself in her latest work. I kept eyeing it on my bookshelf, with it staring at me, and me wondering if it would live up to my expectations of Emily Giffin. It surpassed my expectations, to be honest.
When I finished all five of her novels, (before Where We Belong was ever in the works), I was left impressed. Having read her novels in the order they were published, I have to say, Emily has really grown into her own. Her writing, for me, is pristine. She describes things just enough, so you have an idea of her characters, the setting, and the story, but as I read her stories, I am capable of imagining the story for myself, and it makes me feel as though I am 'really there' watching the stories unfold. Where We Belong really shows how far Emily has come into her writing, and more importantly, how much depth she has as a writer. I was a little skeptical of reading her books because I was afraid they wouldn't have the 'touching story' I long for when I read. She writes stories which make you, or at least they do to me, wonder and think what you would do in that situation. She has a talent for expressing emotions, and making the reader feel the way the characters do.
Where We Belong is such a great story. As my Goodreads friend Veronica told me, it is a feel good story. She was exactly right. This is a story about the secrets we keep, and how much they affect others, but also, how they affect the person who keeps them. But, this is also a story about we are where we are every moment of our lives, even if it is good, bad, pretty, or ugly, because it's, and not to be cliche', where we belong. I will definitely re-read this again. Loved it more than I thought I would!
I started reading Emily Giffin's novels a year or so ago. I have always had a soft spot for a good, realistic story, which touches you, even if you can't personally relate. I picked up Giffin's novels because, I have to admit, her color-scheme on her novels caught my eye, and stood out. I resisted because I was in graduate school at the time, and told myself, "Just wait...Summer break will be here soon enough, and you can read them." I think her newest novel, her fifth, Heart of the Matter" had just been released recently, and when I found out she only had five novels, I was immediately bummed, and...a little sad.
I found out earlier this year, Emily Giffin was working on a new novel, which would be titled Where We Belong. I didn't know what to expect, except it was about adoption. I bought this novel the day it was released, and finished the book I was reading first before immersing myself in her latest work. I kept eyeing it on my bookshelf, with it staring at me, and me wondering if it would live up to my expectations of Emily Giffin. It surpassed my expectations, to be honest.
When I finished all five of her novels, (before Where We Belong was ever in the works), I was left impressed. Having read her novels in the order they were published, I have to say, Emily has really grown into her own. Her writing, for me, is pristine. She describes things just enough, so you have an idea of her characters, the setting, and the story, but as I read her stories, I am capable of imagining the story for myself, and it makes me feel as though I am 'really there' watching the stories unfold. Where We Belong really shows how far Emily has come into her writing, and more importantly, how much depth she has as a writer. I was a little skeptical of reading her books because I was afraid they wouldn't have the 'touching story' I long for when I read. She writes stories which make you, or at least they do to me, wonder and think what you would do in that situation. She has a talent for expressing emotions, and making the reader feel the way the characters do.
Where We Belong is such a great story. As my Goodreads friend Veronica told me, it is a feel good story. She was exactly right. This is a story about the secrets we keep, and how much they affect others, but also, how they affect the person who keeps them. But, this is also a story about we are where we are every moment of our lives, even if it is good, bad, pretty, or ugly, because it's, and not to be cliche', where we belong. I will definitely re-read this again. Loved it more than I thought I would!
never-ever-says-big-brother
August 27, 2012No Emily Giffin for me! http://coreyann.me/?p=141
May 19, 2012
I was excited to win a copy of this book as I had enjoyed Something Borrowed, and surprisingly, enjoyed its sequel, Something Blue, even more. They're smart, likeable, chick lit and she asks questions about moral behavior. But Giffin's subsequent books haven't had as much pop. She tells decent stories, and I want to root for her characters. But I wish she would tune her writing up, and she has some bad habits and a few writerly tics she indulges here.
In this novel, a successful TV producer finds the teenaged daughter she placed for adoption on her doorstep, looking for answers. Her female characters have some conflict and complexity; her male characters are more one-dimensional. Here, there's the bad boy with the heart of gold who loved our heroine from the start, and the older, wealthy, ideal boyfriend who (spoiler?) maybe isn't quite right for her by no fault of his own. The teenaged daughter has a new boyfriend of her own, a poised and sunny prep school boy with whom it's love at first sight and whose only flaw is his planned disappearance after graduation to college in the west. Is it a throwback to say the men need a little work, here, to be more than foils to the women?
Giffin has some idea of the importance of place, and also of music. As a former St. Louisan, I can vouch for her spelling "Eichelberger" correctly (note to publishers: no apostrophe in "Schnucks," the local supermarket chain, OK?) but the name drops read as superficial. You can look online and find that everyone just west of the Mississippi loves Ted Drewes. Where you go to high school is a critical question in St. Louis, and honestly, I don't know enough about Chaminade to know if those guys would date a girl from DuBourg. But DuBourg being co-ed, usually students date each other....there's not much of the personality of St. Louis, let alone New York, where the producer lives. In contrast to Giffin's books, check out early novels of Sarah Bird (The Boyfriend School) for a personality-filled dunk in 80s Austin with lots of well-loved name checks. Also, would a musically savvy teenage girl today list her top 5 bands as Wilco, Radiohead, REM, Van Morrison, and the Velvet Underground? or is that the list of a somewhat older writer recalling some critically acclaimed bands?
Giffin has gotten into the habit of having a character or two from her previous novels appear and dispense wisdom, which could give some intriguing continuity, or could just be annoying, and it happens again here with the couple from Baby-Proof popping in.
Two reality checks--can a prom dress be stuffed into a tote bag inconspicuously? Those suckers are pretty bulky....Also, when our teenage heroine tries on picturing herself performing oral sex on her new and perfect boyfriend, was anyone else a little creeped out?
On a good note, I thought her sensitivity to opening an adoption and using positive adoption language was well done--when she didn't, it was because characters weren't thinking in those terms. She got at some of the complicated emotions that might spill into opening a closed adoption. In the end, this was a fun light read with some realistic mixed feelings and unrealistic messages about romantic love. Emily Giffin, you've done better, and I think you can again.
In this novel, a successful TV producer finds the teenaged daughter she placed for adoption on her doorstep, looking for answers. Her female characters have some conflict and complexity; her male characters are more one-dimensional. Here, there's the bad boy with the heart of gold who loved our heroine from the start, and the older, wealthy, ideal boyfriend who (spoiler?) maybe isn't quite right for her by no fault of his own. The teenaged daughter has a new boyfriend of her own, a poised and sunny prep school boy with whom it's love at first sight and whose only flaw is his planned disappearance after graduation to college in the west. Is it a throwback to say the men need a little work, here, to be more than foils to the women?
Giffin has some idea of the importance of place, and also of music. As a former St. Louisan, I can vouch for her spelling "Eichelberger" correctly (note to publishers: no apostrophe in "Schnucks," the local supermarket chain, OK?) but the name drops read as superficial. You can look online and find that everyone just west of the Mississippi loves Ted Drewes. Where you go to high school is a critical question in St. Louis, and honestly, I don't know enough about Chaminade to know if those guys would date a girl from DuBourg. But DuBourg being co-ed, usually students date each other....there's not much of the personality of St. Louis, let alone New York, where the producer lives. In contrast to Giffin's books, check out early novels of Sarah Bird (The Boyfriend School) for a personality-filled dunk in 80s Austin with lots of well-loved name checks. Also, would a musically savvy teenage girl today list her top 5 bands as Wilco, Radiohead, REM, Van Morrison, and the Velvet Underground? or is that the list of a somewhat older writer recalling some critically acclaimed bands?
Giffin has gotten into the habit of having a character or two from her previous novels appear and dispense wisdom, which could give some intriguing continuity, or could just be annoying, and it happens again here with the couple from Baby-Proof popping in.
Two reality checks--can a prom dress be stuffed into a tote bag inconspicuously? Those suckers are pretty bulky....Also, when our teenage heroine tries on picturing herself performing oral sex on her new and perfect boyfriend, was anyone else a little creeped out?
On a good note, I thought her sensitivity to opening an adoption and using positive adoption language was well done--when she didn't, it was because characters weren't thinking in those terms. She got at some of the complicated emotions that might spill into opening a closed adoption. In the end, this was a fun light read with some realistic mixed feelings and unrealistic messages about romantic love. Emily Giffin, you've done better, and I think you can again.
June 22, 2016
What to say about this novel? I’m always a sucker for a story about adopted children, (not sure why) so the subject drew me in to start with. And it was the reason probably why I kept reading even when at times I was finding myself annoyed with the characters and their behaviour. It was one of those novels that struck me as inconsistent. At times I was reading along happily but at other times wondering why I was reading it at all.
I didn’t like Marian at all and found her juvenile in her outlook even after she was an adult. Her behaviour when Kirby turns up was bizarre. Taking her shopping? Really! With Kirby I couldn’t help but think how hurtful it must be to her adoptive parents to want to find her birth parents. It’s like she never thought about them at all.
Okay, so I am not adopted and maybe it looks different when you are, but still I just found Kirby hard in the way she treated her parents, who had been there for her since she was a baby. Probably half my problem is I empathise and put myself in the situation. So, yes, I liked parts of the story, didn’t like others or much of the behaviours and attitudes. But then there were other characters that showed real love. It was an easy read and others may respond better to the main characters than I did. Some of the minor characters are worth knowing. The ending is such that I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a sequel. I hesitated between two and three starts. Given my dissatisfaction with a lot if it, I ended up dropping it back to 2 and a half stars. I just didn’t enjoy it as much as expected.
I didn’t like Marian at all and found her juvenile in her outlook even after she was an adult. Her behaviour when Kirby turns up was bizarre. Taking her shopping? Really! With Kirby I couldn’t help but think how hurtful it must be to her adoptive parents to want to find her birth parents. It’s like she never thought about them at all.
Okay, so I am not adopted and maybe it looks different when you are, but still I just found Kirby hard in the way she treated her parents, who had been there for her since she was a baby. Probably half my problem is I empathise and put myself in the situation. So, yes, I liked parts of the story, didn’t like others or much of the behaviours and attitudes. But then there were other characters that showed real love. It was an easy read and others may respond better to the main characters than I did. Some of the minor characters are worth knowing. The ending is such that I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a sequel. I hesitated between two and three starts. Given my dissatisfaction with a lot if it, I ended up dropping it back to 2 and a half stars. I just didn’t enjoy it as much as expected.
January 5, 2023
I have struggled with my review since finishing the audiobook. When I started listening to this story I hadn't any inkling as to what the plot was about & after enjoying the first couple moments of the narration, decided to pursue the entire book.
I cannot say that there was any specific moment which stood-out to me as being particularly astounding, memorable or thoroughly enjoyable. Neither was there anything that was particularly disagreeable, horrendous or unpleasant. This was simply a book that I read & that is that.
If you are seeking something which isn't too much of any which thing; a plot which has characters who are not very incredibly explored but, at the same time, seem to reflect interesting particulars of real life human beings - this might be a story you will enjoy.
My main point of contention with the story was the lack of any communication at all, amongst almost every character. Everyone was written as being decent human beings but then, when it came time to express something, to communicate something - everyone fell flat as though that had never been something which had arisen for them in the years spent amongst other people. I can understand a couple times but, having a conversation with the child you love, raised & spent 18 years adoring, regarding their adoption is not the time for filler words when the truth should have been put forth but, who am I to speak on being an adoptive parent.
In any case, not a terribly wonderful nor horrible book. Simply a well-narrated & quaint story.
I cannot say that there was any specific moment which stood-out to me as being particularly astounding, memorable or thoroughly enjoyable. Neither was there anything that was particularly disagreeable, horrendous or unpleasant. This was simply a book that I read & that is that.
If you are seeking something which isn't too much of any which thing; a plot which has characters who are not very incredibly explored but, at the same time, seem to reflect interesting particulars of real life human beings - this might be a story you will enjoy.
My main point of contention with the story was the lack of any communication at all, amongst almost every character. Everyone was written as being decent human beings but then, when it came time to express something, to communicate something - everyone fell flat as though that had never been something which had arisen for them in the years spent amongst other people. I can understand a couple times but, having a conversation with the child you love, raised & spent 18 years adoring, regarding their adoption is not the time for filler words when the truth should have been put forth but, who am I to speak on being an adoptive parent.
In any case, not a terribly wonderful nor horrible book. Simply a well-narrated & quaint story.
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