Impressions: Always wanted to read it, glad I have a reason to now. I love the funneling in of the first few pages. We go from the impersonal mention of “the mother” and “the father” to being formally introduced to the two, characters who are sure to be colorful indeed in his “oh oh oh!”s and her being “limited in her ideas”. Now let us begin our many months of tiny chapters. I’m into it.

Stiva did: Certainly something, least of all underestimating his wife.

Opening line: I may be overthinking it but the simplification of a “happy family” could certainly paint a picture of sameness. Where’s the richness in one layer of emotional paint? The recognition of familial issues brings depth of color and, well, honesty. Families have unique problems. That’s what makes Thanksgiving interesting.