Play Book Tag discussion

Inside the O’Briens – Lisa Genova
Digital audiobook performed by Skipp Sudduth
5*****

Joe O’Brien is a Boston police officer, with a loving wife and four great kids, when he begins experiencing episodes of fidgeting, uncontrolled tics, and emotional outbursts. He dismisses these as the results of the stress of the job, but eventually he agrees to see a doctor. The stunning diagnosis of Huntington’s Disease makes Joe recall his mother’s last years and death and makes him fear for his children.

Genova writes so well about neurological disorders, making the story incredibly personal. She both entertains and informs in her novels. I really felt as if I knew Joe, Rosie (Joe’s wife), his daughter Katie and the rest of the characters. There were scenes that were very emotional and heart-wrenching, as well as scenes of humor and love and tenderness. I cried with them, I laughed with them, I was frustrated and even found some measure of hope along with them.

It certainly made me think: “What would I do?” How would I tell my family? Would I retreat into myself? Would I quit my job and head for Africa and /or Australia (two continents on my bucket list)? Would I consider suicide?

While it did not have the same emotional wallop as Still Alice for me, I still give it five stars.

Skipp Sudduth does a fine job performing the audiobook. He really brought these characters to life for me.



LINK to my review

I’ve always planned to read more of her books after really enjoying Still Alice. Thanks for your review.

I didn't love this one. It was good, but nowhere near as heartbreaking as Still Alice

Ladyslott wrote: "I didn't love this one. It was good, but nowhere near as heartbreaking as Still Alice"

I agree that it didn't have the emotional wallop of S.A.