Light on Snow by Anita Shreve

March 27, 2007
Book suggested by Kelly, and meeting hosted by Barb.

Interestingly, this book more than any others that we've read, received very consistent reviews from the group. Most, if not all of us, shared the same opinions about the book - not enough substance, lack of character development, simple vocabulary, and weak plot. We did agree that it was easy to read, and is probably appropriate for a beach read, but it left us wanting more. Most of us thought that the book ended with too many unanswered questions about the birth couple's consequences and what happened next in the lives of Nicky and Rob. We greatly appreciated the author's ability to write very descriptively, but we "scratched our heads" when Kelly read the rave reviews, particularly the one from People Magazine that said Shreve's books are often filled with eroticism! We did agree with the review that coined her books to be atmospheric and believable. When Kelly read a glowing review from a sixth grader, we could understand why someone that age would like the book!

In reading the book, we didn't like Rob (the dad). We understood that he was still healing from the loss of his wife and daughter, but thought that he made some bad decisions, and were very glad when Nicky stood up to him. Though he was completely lost in his grief, we could see how he was influenced by his daughter in his decision not to report Charlotte to the police.

We appreciated the relationship between Nicky and Charlotte. Nicky was sorely in need of a close female relationship, and quickly latched on to Charlotte, and Charlotte was going through a very rough time and appreciated the companionship that Nicky so willingly offered. Most of us thought that they were like close sisters.

We talked about the fat that Nicky and Rob had a non-traditional father/daughter relationship. Nicky looked after her dad, and adapted her behavior to meet his needs, rather than the other way around. We talked briefly about how this book can make on reflect on matters of "chance" and "fate" and that a very small thing (like a decision to take an evening hike) can significantly affect life's events and outcomes.

Anita Shreve's website: http://www.hachettebookgroupusa.com/features/AnitaShreve/