First Novel a Triple Success
Things happen in threes for a reason and the relationship between Susannah, Julian and Kit is only the tip of the iceberg. The story unfolds as triads form, meeting, overlapping and blending, one into the other, much like the collections of three that Susannah keeps in her glovebox. As the story unfolds not only does the landscape evolve from desert to ocean but the lives of the characters evolve also from drabness to beauty. Each is a study in contrasts, most notably Frankie who is quite literally trying to change her whole being. I found the book hard to put down and the author's use of language was exceptional.
Rated of 5
by Marcia (Hendersonville NC)
Delightful journey
Author Amy Shearn takes readers on a delightful journey which explores relationships, family, parenthood, love, and the unique and strange bonds that connect people. Readers who appreciate beautiful and insightful writing as much as a good story line itself will find a lot to like about this novel. I know I'll go back over passages to enjoy again Shearn's way with words and observations.
Rated of 5
by GM (Martinsburg WV)
How Far Is the Ocean From Here
Amy Shearn has created a memorable character, Susannah Prue, who is searching to belong to someone. Her journey takes her across a desert that is so vividly described by Shearn that you can feel the heat and right into the hearts and lives of five strangers who show Susannah what family really is: imperfect, forgiving and unpredictable. I would highly recommend this book for book clubs. There is something about each character that I could relate to thus making this a book I couldn't wait to read.
Rated of 5
by Sandra (Delray Beach FL)
In My Humble Opinion....
This is the first book about surrogate motherhood that I have ever read. How Far Is the Ocean from Here is very well written and thought provoking. The author captured, for me, the real feeling of the desert and the feeling of isolation within Susannah. I enjoyed this book very much although I was frustrated and sympathetic at the same time (confusing for me!) with most of the characters! It would make for a great book club discussion.
Rated of 5
by Debi (Charleston SC)
How Far is the Ocean from Here by Amy Shearn
I very much enjoyed reading this book. Not only did it introduce me to eight uniquely, different people, but it also made me realize how our decisions, thoughts and actions can impact the lives of the people around us. I liked the way Ms. Shearn was able to make me feel like I was right there, with everyone, instead of reading a book about them. I also agree that this book would make an excellent book club selection.
Rated of 5
by Susan (Twain Harte CA)
Perception vs. Reality
I loved this book! This is a tale of ambivalence. What makes one a mother? What is "normal"? Who am I? Susannah, Julian, Frankie, Kim, Dicey, and Tim all deal with how they are perceived with others and how they experience themselves. The setting is remarkably described; I felt I was truly in the desert with them. This will make a great film.
Rated of 5
by Cathy (Shelton CT)
This is a MUST READ!
Did you ever make a mistake and think "Oh no! What the hell am I going to do now?" A mistake that affects not only your life but all the lives around you? If you have ever said the words "What if..." or "If only I had..." then this book is for you, young or old, male or female, child or adult. Susannah, a very young surrogate mother realizes that she has done something irrevocable and panics. The rest of the book is an extremely insightful and poignant look at relationships and choices made by Susannah and by all those around her and the consequences of those choices. A deep look into the human spirit, feelings, emotions, regrets, promises, and the unknown future.
This is an excellent book for discussion by book clubs and even if you don't belong to a book club you will want to go find someone to discuss this book with. Any one who reads this book will think of their own past, their own mistakes, their own choices, and will certainly relate to one of the interesting characters who are so well developed by the author that they seem alive. An amazing read, I couldn't put it down and I was sorry when it ended. Thank you Amy Shearn for giving us a book that is so intuitive and that touched my heart.
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of 5
by Lisa (Riverwoods IL)
