This was a book that I voted for in our book club selections because of seeing it on several “Must Read” lists. I had no preconceived ideas about the plot, just knowing that others liked it.
Fifteen year-old Bee is a typical teenager with a very untypical mother. Bernadette is outspoken, opinionated and is the definition of “marches to the beat of her own drum”. In a previous life she was an acclaimed architect, with designs that were revolutionary and award-winning. Now she is bordering on agoraphobic, not leaving her house if at all possible, and when she DOES venture out into society she leaves a trail of chaos and furious PTA moms in her wake.
Bee negotiates with her parents a family trip to Antarctica as a reward for good grades, but just before their departure Bernadette vanishes without a trace, leaving Bee shocked and determined to find out what happened. In researching all the facets of her mother’s life, from her past to recent correspondence, she finds herself on a journey of self-discovery as well as eye-opening insight into the woman she knows just as Mom.
It’s a book that it is sweet and engaging, with enough suspense to keep you hooked. It’s a coming-of-age story celebrating the love between a mother & daughter, overlaid with mystery and intrigue. The plot is a bit far-fetched, and there are a couple plot holes that require you to look the other way, but the engaging characters help you to be forgiving of the obvious flaws.
Fun summer read that is perfect to take on vacation.