All These Girls

All These Girls by Ellen Slezak is the story of a bond between a young woman and aunts. Candy Golden has lost her mother, and quit her high school basketball team in the wake of accusations of having sex with her coach. Her Grandaunt Gloria struggles to help Candy straighten out and reclaim the energy to return to the basketball court, while her other, more distant aunt Elizabeth reluctantly comes along in what is meant to be a rejuvenating trip. Yet the travel goes off-course, and places the three of them in a remote locale, confronted by characters that will make them re-examine who they all are and what they are striving for in life. A story of emotional transformation, hope, and forgiveness in troubled times.

All These Girls is that rare multi-generational novel about real women and girls that doesn't pander to its characters. In this rich, engrossing novel, the author presents three principled women as they are -- without condescension or excuses or undue praise. The story of their journey together isn't just that of a family coming together despite their differences, it's a celebration of those differences. As Glo's staunch Catholicism, Elizabeth's driving (but not always welcome) need for autonomy, and Candy's stubborn desire to confound expectations collide, they all find themselves not so much changed as enriched. This would be a terrific book group book, I think, because it's not only a great read -- lots of unexpected humor and intelligent insight here -- it raises a good many questions on how women and girls choose -- or must choose -- their way in life. The central narrative in this novel is a reluctant pilgrimmage, and I couldn't imagine a more apt metaphor for the journey many women make alongside their mothers, aunts, daughters, and nieces as their lives take shape. Highly recommended.

What a superb book this is! Slezak skillfully braids the lives of three women incompatible in every way--age, aptitude, beliefs--who are nevertheless held together by the stubborness of affection and the long guilt of family ties. Affecting without ever being remotely maudlin, the characters grope through their long-cherished anger and resentment to arrive at a new balance of compassion. Written with wit and often gorgeous power, the book will linger long with its readers.