Memphis Reads Archive

Clark Taylor reviews SUSANNAH'S GARDEN by Debbie Macomber (Mira, 2006).

Middle-aged Susannah Nelson takes stock of her life. Despite having a loving husband and a satisfying job, she realizes something is missing. Lately she's been remembering Jake, her high school sweetheart, who disappeared three decades ago. When Susannah goes back home to help her aging, increasingly forgetful mother, she tries to figure out what happened to Jake.

This is a touching and entertaining story about relationships and should have appeal for many, especially baby boomer parents. Debbie Macomber skillfully interweaves the various stories: Susannah's conflicts with her rebellious college-age daughter; her interactions with her husband after 25 years of marriage; her struggles to care for her mother; her longing to locate her high school boyfriend; and her rekindled friendships with former high school girlfriends.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and could identify with several aspects of Susannah's story. I highly recommend it.


Clark Taylor, Raleigh Branch Library

Labels: Women's Fiction