In 'The Guest Book,' Sarah Blake weaves a multi-generational tale that explores the dark secrets of an old family estate off the coast of Maine. As the story unfolds, the lives of the wealthy and privileged bear the weight of the past, revealing hidden truths that challenge their perceived ideals. Through the lens of history, race, and belonging, the novel sparks questions about privilege and the foundations of family legacy. Each character's struggle with identity brings an emotional depth that resonates with the reader. What happens when the past refuses to stay buried, and how far will one go to protect their family's narrative?
By Sarah Blake
Published: 2019
""There are stories in the silence, whispers of the past that echo through the spaces we leave behind.""
Instant New York Times Bestseller Longlisted for Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence 2020 New England Society Book Award Winner for Fiction “The Guest Book is monumental in a way that few novels dare attempt.” —The Washington Post The thought-provoking new novel by New York Times bestselling author Sarah Blake An exquisitely written, poignant family saga that illuminates the great divide, the gulf that separates the rich and poor, black and white, Protestant and Jew. Spanning three generations, The Guest Book deftly examines the life and legacy of one unforgettable family as they navigate the evolving social and political landscape from Crockett’s Island, their family retreat off the coast of Maine. Blake masterfully lays bare the memories and mistakes each generation makes while coming to terms with what it means to inherit the past.
Showing 8 of 20 similar books
Amanda Palmer is an American singer-songwriter, author, and performance artist, best known for her work as a solo artist and as part of the band The Dresden Dolls. Palmer is known for her theatrical performances, genre-blending music, and her strong connection with her fanbase. She has been a pioneer in crowdfunding, raising millions to fund her creative projects through platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon. Palmer is also the author of The Art of Asking, where she explores themes of vulnerability, creativity, and connection. Her work transcends traditional music, blending performance art, activism, and community engagement.
Emily Oster is an economist and professor at Brown University, known for her data-driven approach to parenting. She is the author of popular books like Expecting Better and Cribsheet, where she uses economics to debunk common parenting myths and offer evidence-based advice. Emily’s research empowers parents to make informed decisions based on data rather than societal pressure. Her approachable style has made her a favorite among modern parents seeking clarity in an overwhelming information landscape. She continues to challenge conventional wisdom with a focus on making parenting less stressful.
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
Lisa Randall is a prominent American theoretical physicist and author renowned for her work in particle physics and cosmology. A professor at Harvard University, she has made significant contributions to our understanding of higher dimensions and dark matter. Her influential books, such as "Warped Passages" and "Knocking on Heaven's Door," have brought complex scientific concepts to a broader audience, blending rigorous science with accessible prose. Randall's research has earned her numerous accolades, including membership in the National Academy of Sciences. Her work continues to inspire both the scientific community and the general public, bridging the gap between advanced physics and everyday understanding.
David Sedaris is an American humorist, author, and radio contributor, known for his witty and satirical essays that explore themes of family, culture, and personal idiosyncrasies. Sedaris rose to fame with his collections Me Talk Pretty One Day and Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, which have earned him a devoted following for his blend of humor and keen observation. His work is often autobiographical, capturing the quirks of everyday life in a humorous light. Sedaris regularly contributes to The New Yorker and NPR’s This American Life, and his live readings are popular events that showcase his comedic timing and unique storytelling style.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
Ann Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.
Showing 8 of 12 related collections
“"There are stories in the silence, whispers of the past that echo through the spaces we leave behind."”
The Guest Book
By Sarah Blake
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Sarah Blake is an acclaimed American author known for her lyrical prose and thematic depth. She is the author of several celebrated works, including 'The Postmistress,' which was a New York Times bestseller and adapted into a feature film. Other notable titles include 'The Guest Book' and 'Naomi and the Wolf.' Blake often explores complex characters and relationships, weaving historical contexts with personal narratives to engage readers deeply. Her writing is characterized by its emotional resonance and vivid imagery.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.
In 'Psychology of the Digital Age', John R. Suler explores how the internet alters our perceptions and behaviors. The book delves into the psychological effects of online interactions, revealing both the liberating and isolating aspects of digital communication. Suler investigates the dynamic between virtual identities and real-life personas, and how this tension shapes our relationships. By integrating psychological theories with contemporary digital culture, the author prompts readers to question their online selves. This engaging exploration raises essential questions about identity, anonymity, and the future of human connection in a digital world.
In 'The Referral Engine', John Jantsch reveals the secret to transforming your business through the power of referrals. He provides actionable strategies that turn satisfied customers into enthusiastic advocates. By understanding the psychology behind referrals, readers learn how to create a system that generates a steady stream of new clients. This book is not just about getting recommendations; it's about building relationships that drive sustainable growth. Dive in to discover how to leverage the influence of others to supercharge your success!
In 'Design for Real Life', Eric A. Meyer and Sara Wachter-Boettcher challenge the traditional notions of design by highlighting how digital products impact users' lives beyond the screen. They delve into the complexities of real-world scenarios, emphasizing the importance of empathy and inclusivity in design processes. Through compelling case studies and practical advice, the authors reveal a transformative approach that prioritizes human experiences. This book invites designers to anticipate the unexpected challenges that users might face. Can design truly support and uplift those navigating tough situations in life?
In 'On Balance', Adam Phillips explores the intricate dance of life and the quest for equilibrium amidst chaos. Through keen psychological insights and poignant observations, he delves into how we juggle desires, fears, and the pursuit of happiness. The book invites readers to reconsider their understanding of balance, challenging conventional wisdom and offering fresh perspectives. Phillips' eloquent prose weaves personal anecdotes with philosophical musings, making each page a thought-provoking journey. Are we truly seeking balance, or is the struggle itself what defines us?
Explore the extraordinary life of Carl Friedrich Gauss, one of history's most brilliant mathematicians, in this captivating biography by Guy Waldo Dunnington. Delve into Gauss's groundbreaking contributions to number theory, statistics, and astronomy that laid the foundation for modern mathematics. Discover the personal challenges he faced, including poverty and familial struggles, that shaped his relentless pursuit of knowledge. Unravel the mysteries behind his genius, including stories of his legendary intuition and mental calculations. This intriguing tale illuminates how one man's passion for numbers reshaped our understanding of the universe.
In 'Matilda', Roald Dahl introduces us to a remarkable little girl with extraordinary intelligence and a passion for books. Neglected by her unkind parents, Matilda discovers her love for literature and her unique telekinetic powers. As she navigates the challenges of a cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, and a supportive teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda proves that even the smallest among us can change the world. This enchanting tale is a celebration of resilience, wit, and the magic of childhood. Dive into Matilda's adventure where cleverness and courage reign supreme!
In 'Arcadia,' Tom Stoppard weaves a compelling narrative that spans two centuries, intertwining the lives of a 19th-century English family with modern academics. At the heart of the play lies a pivotal garden at Sidley Park, where notions of order and chaos collide. As characters grapple with the mysteries of history, love, and knowledge, secrets are unearthed that challenge their understanding of time itself. Stoppard masterfully blends mathematics, literature, and philosophy, inviting readers to ponder the nature of truth and creativity. This thought-provoking exploration will leave you questioning the connections between past and present, art and science.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
