A Gate at the Stairs, by Lorrie Moore

I don't know what to say about this one. In some ways, this is a story about a young nanny who forms a bond with her charge, only to have the relationship torn apart by the dysfunctional parents. It is a story about the perils of adoption. It is a story about life in post-9/11 America. It is the story of a disaffected teen who cannot make sense of the world. It is about authenticity of rural life and, conversely, the falseness of urban life. It has a very interesting story line, a really cool plot twist, and some very interesting characters. It encompasses all kinds of compelling themes, and Moore is an incredible writer. Yet, I still didn't love it. I had to wade impatiently through long stretches of what felt almost like writing exercises, descriptions of the dreamy protagonist floating disconnectedly through existence, to get to the story. By the end, I realized that a lot of her words sounded pretty, but that I really didn't know what they meant. I don't know what the whole book added up to. I think it's the kind of book you need to discuss in a college lit class. I'm glad I read it, and I mostly enjoyed it, but I don't think I completely got it. Oh well.

Comments

[mosey along]

You're on a roll. I actually just went through some of your old book reviews again.... I'm heading out on a trip and need some new reading material. So tomorrow I'll peruse a shortlist at the library and hopefully find some good reading material.

[After Words]

I really love Lorrie Moore, but I felt like this book was a disappointment...the plot twist with the parents was jaw droppingly awful, but even so felt forced to me.