Within Arm's Reach

ByAnn Napolitano

Release Date: 2024-04-30
Genre: Literary Fiction

Score: 3.5

3.5

From 141 Ratings

Description

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • The tender and perceptive debut novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Hello Beautiful, about three generations of a large Catholic family jarred into crisis by an unexpected pregnancy

“This stunning . . . exquisite, skillfully written gem addresses serious issues–e.g., guilt vs. loyalty, the past vs. the present—[but] remains hopeful and includes ample doses of humor and wit.”—Library Journal (starred review)

No one in my mother’s family ever talks about anything that can be categorized as unpleasant or as having to do with emotions. . . .

This spellbinding novel by bestselling author Ann Napolitano is a poignant reminder of how connected we are to those we love, even when we cannot find the words to say it. The unforgettable story of three generations of an Irish American family, Within Arm’s Reach is another rich and deeply satisfying novel from the author who captured the many dimensions of grief in Dear Edward and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood in Hello Beautiful.

Reviews

Interesting Writing
4
By Mcb717
I feel Ann has an interesting way with words. This story is partially believable (since it is based loosely on non-fiction - which you don’t realize until after reading the author’s notes). But, it is about a dysfunction Irish Catholic family, which to me seemed a little sad as to how this family grew up…so strict between Mom, Dad and Siblings. Wish I knew if ever ends us “okay.” The author leaves the ending to our imagination.
A chore to get through
1
By Nutzaboutcooking
I did not like anything about this book. I trudged through only because I enjoyed this author’s other books. I had hoped this one would eventually get better. For me, it never happened
Within Arms Reach
3
By GWYNEDD READER
Depressing, all the characters were not very likable.