A review by karlee_reads
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This was such a beautiful book. Do not go in thinking it's a mystery - the cause of Ruthie's disappearance is made clear very quickly. This is much more a character study on grief and guilt in the wake of a family tragedy and what that does to the people impacted. The winding timeline and dual narrators create a unique atmosphere of reflection as the story is woven and we are filled in from the time Ruthie went missing to the present of Joe's deathbed where the novel begins. Peters has really given life to her cast of characters, making them people the reader wants to react to and interact with - both positively and negatively. I want Mae and Alice as aunties and I wanted to scream at Lenore and young Joe. Peters also describes tragic events with a deftness and respect that should be applauded, softening the pain while not diminishing the importance of the event. A stunning story that shows how grief can poison us, and how we can try to heal from that pain. Highly recommend. 
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