In Kerry Anne King’s assured and insightful debut novel, Other People’s Things, three estranged siblings are brought together after their mother’s death. The siblings must grapple with the belongings that their mother left behind – each of which tells a story about who she was. Through the objects they discover in their shared home, the siblings come to better understand one another and learn to cope with both their mother’s absence andtheir own complicated lives. With humor and tenderness, King explores the relationships between mothers and children, husbands and wives, sisters and brothers as they all try to make sense of life after loss.
For who is this book for ?
This book is perfect for anyone who loved The Nest. It’s a poignant and insightful look at family relationships, told through the belongings that their mother left behind. With humor and tenderness, King explores the complicated dynamics between mothers and children, husbands and wives, sisters and brothers.
Pros :
- The author has a beautiful way with words that makes the story easy to read and engaging.
- The characters are well developed and relatable.
- The plot is touching and relevant, dealing with themes of grief, loss, and family dynamics.
Cons :
- The plot is slightly slow-moving
- The characters are not particularly likable or relatable
- The book feels incomplete
Learn more about the author
Kerry Anne King is the author of Other People’s Things. A native of Ohio, she has an MFA from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and teaches writing at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri.
Reader Reviews
“A beautifully written and insightful debut about family, legacy, and grief. Kerry Anne King dives deep into the heart of her characters with empathy and humor, exploring the ways in which we all try to make sense of life after loss. I couldn’t put it down.”
“I wasn’t prepared for the depth of emotion that I felt while reading this book. It is so beautifully written and incredibly touching.”
“Other People’s Things is a tender exploration of the delicate ties that bind families. King has written an insightful and heartfelt debut novel about the power of inheritance – both material and emotional.”
“Other People’s Things is a beautifully written and insightful debut novel about the complexities of family relationships. Kerry Anne King deftly explores the ways in which we all struggle to understand one another, and how grief can bring us together or pull us apart. This is a moving, thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you finish it.”
