Slacks for Ella Funt

One of the most emotionally instense books I’ve read in a long time. Seth, escaping an abusive Midwestern childhood, ends up in New York and with a much older man, Jim, who is grieving from the death of his lifelong partner. Just as they come to terms with their relationship, Seth’s sister, Cassie, escapes to the city as well, and the truth about Seth’s past, which he had hidden from Jim, is revealed.

Shapiro’s character’s don’t keep their distance from the reader in any way. Somehow, even when they’re not honest with themselves or each other, they’re honest with the reader. I felt completely drawn into and overwhelmed by the thoughts and emotions of all three characters. After reading a few things where characters felt underdeveloped, it was exciting to read such a strong character driven novel.

Shapiro also captures the excitement of first arriving in New York and the difficulty of leaving where you come from, which are themes that always appeal to me.