Comment

Jan 28, 2013
Pulitzer prize winning novelist, Richard Russo sets out to document his complicated relationship with his mother and growing up in Gloversville MY – what becomes the fictional setting from many of his novels. What follows is a very readable story, as opposed to his memoir. Labeled by many as “Mom-oir” as it really tells the story of his mother’s life. Russo is unpretentious as the details of the unhealthy relationship he shared with his mother unfold. In the beginning you see his mother as a young boy would see his single mother – strong and striving for independence. As the story weaves along, and as Russo matures and begins to see life from a larger perspective, the reality of who Jean was becomes clearer. Only later after Jean has died does Russo really begin to understand the woman that she was. An entertaining and poignant read. Those who enjoyed The Glass Castle may also enjoy this title. Reviewed by CS