The Cactus Book Summary

In 'The Cactus', Sarah Haywood introduces us to the brilliantly acerbic Susan Green, a woman whose highly controlled life begins to unravel when she unexpectedly becomes pregnant. As her carefully constructed world of solitude and independence is shattered, Susan's humorous yet poignant journey leads her to confront her fears of intimacy and family. This tale unfolds with wit and warmth, exploring themes of loneliness, love, and the chaos of life changes. With her sharp observations, Haywood captures the unpredictability of the heart and the importance of connection. Can a prickly cactus truly learn to bloom?

By Sarah Haywood

Published: 2019

""Sometimes the things we think will bring us comfort only reveal how deeply we long for connection.""

Book Review of The Cactus

A REESE WITHERSPOON x HELLO SUNSHINE BOOK CLUB PICK New York Times Bestseller "Fans of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine will love The Cactus." --Red magazine In this charming and poignant debut, one woman's unconventional journey to finding love means learning to embrace the unexpected. For Susan Green, messy emotions don't fit into the equation of her perfectly ordered life. She has a flat that is ideal for one, a job that suits her passion for logic, and an "interpersonal arrangement" that provides cultural and other, more intimate, benefits. But suddenly confronted with the loss of her mother and the news that she is about to become a mother herself, Susan's greatest fear is realized. She is losing control. Enter Rob, the dubious but well-meaning friend of her indolent brother. As Susan's due date draws near and her dismantled world falls further into a tailspin, Susan finds an unlikely ally in Rob. She might have a chance at finding real love and learning to love herself, if only she can figure out how to let go.

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"Sometimes the things we think will bring us comfort only reveal how deeply we long for connection."

The Cactus

By Sarah Haywood