A review by tamaralgage1
The Book of Ruth by Jane Hamilton

4.0

We have all witnessed families that are nothing short of a 'train wreck'. If we are lucky we can stand off at a distance to avoid the splatter. I know that might be a bit too graphic. But I just finished this book and find it a fitting description. Although this is a fictional story told in first person by Ruth, I cannot help but think this is fairly representative in too many lives. Ruth is a young girl that struggles with understanding the world. Her mother is an angry bitter woman who rarely has a kind word for her daughter. At the same time, the mother lavishes love and affection for Ruth's brother. Empathy is in short supply in Ruth's world. This book is heart breaking and worth the read.