In 'One True Thing', Anna Quindlen explores the complexities of family bonds through the eyes of a woman who returns home to care for her dying mother. As she navigates the painful truths of her mother's past and the sacrifices of motherhood, she finds herself grappling with her own identity and choices. The narrative masterfully weaves themes of love, loss, and personal growth while challenging the protagonist's preconceived notions about life's meaning. This poignant journey reveals how the act of caring for another can lead to profound self-discovery. Will she emerge with a deeper understanding of love—or will the weight of unspoken truths shatter her world?
By Anna Quindlen
Published: 2006
"Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same."
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • “[Anna Quindlen] writes passionately . . . painstakingly uncovering all the intensity, suspicion and primitive love that bonds mothers and daughters.”—The Boston Globe Ellen Gulden is enjoying her career as a successful magazine writer in New York City when she learns that her mother, Kate, is dying of cancer. Ellen’s father insists that she quit her job and return home to become a caregiver. A high-powered career woman, Ellen has never felt she had much in common with her mother, a homemaker and the heart of their family. Yet as Ellen begins to spend time with Kate, she discovers many surprising truths, not only about herself, but also about the woman she thought she knew so well. Later, when Ellen is accused of the mercy killing of her mother, she must not only defend her own life but make a difficult choice—either accept responsibility for an act she did not commit or divulge the name of the person she believes committed a painful act of love. Praise for One True Thing “A triumph.”—San Francisco Chronicle “We leave One True Thing stimulated and challenged, more thoughtful than when we began.”—Los Angeles Times “Like a brush with mortality, One True Thing leaves the reader feeling grateful, wide awake, lucky to be alive.”—Michael Chabon “It calls you back for another read. . . . This is a book of catharsis.”—The Denver Post “Fiercely compassionate and frank.” —Elle
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“Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same.”
One True Thing
By Anna Quindlen
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Anna Quindlen is an acclaimed American author, journalist, and opinion writer, known for her insightful explorations of contemporary life. Born on July 8, 1952, she gained prominence as a columnist for The New York Times and later as a best-selling novelist. Her notable works include 'Object Lessons,' 'A Short Guide to a Happy Life,' and 'Still Life with Bread Crumbs.' Quindlen's writing is characterized by its clarity, emotional depth, and keen observations of human relationships, often reflecting on the themes of family, feminism, and the complexities of everyday life. Her ability to blend personal narrative with broader social commentary has earned her numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for her journalism.
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