Pat D. (pat0814) reviewed on 1/9/2017 + 379 more book reviews

Swimming Lessons is a multi-layered family history chronicled by Ingrid in letters she wrote in the past and are now buried in various books. In present time it is the story of Gil, her husband, who is slowly dying of pancreatic cancer. Their two daughters, Flora and Nan, are with Gil in his last pain-ridden days and all are speculating about the possible reappearance of Ingrid after she disappeared without notice many years earlier. Gil is an author and hoarder of the books which he continues to collect in the hope of uncovering all of Ingrid's letters to him. Gil's womanizing is well known, and includes a relationship with Ingrid's dearest friend that produces a son, who later becomes known to Flora and Ingrid. Their marriage is complicated and passionate, and the plot slowly evolves to merge the past with the present to reveal the extent of the family dysfunction.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details