Book Review: We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman

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 This book had been on my 'To be read' list for quite some time before I picked up a copy. I have seen it in the 3 for 2 offer at Waterstones whilst back in Liverpool and was drawn to the title, which so alluring and beautfiul. The lively yellow lemon tart 🍋 on the cover didn't hurt either, I love covers that are different and a little arty, such as is the case with author's such as Clare Chambers.  

I found this one on WOB (formally World Of Books) and knew I should pick up a copy for only a few pounds. I read it quickly and I have a few thoughts...

The premise of the book is that Edi is diagnosed with terminal cancer and Ash, her best friend since childhood is living life, helping Edi and dealing with this diagnosis. Ash, whilst understanding the awfulness of the situation also understands that Edi will always be a massive part of who she is and who she will become, even if she is no longer living. 


Things I liked about this book:

1) The author manages to turn one of the hardest events to happen to someone, into something touching profound, funny and lighthearted, whilst speaking seriously too - no mean feat!

2) I loved the non-chronological narrative that tells us how Edi and Ash met and the memories they shared. 

3) This point brings me on to how well rounded and believable Newman's character's are. I laughed and cried whilst reading this as the author is so good at depicting humanity in it's best ways and it's ridiculous ways too. Edi and Ash's deep friendship with its many layers is so believable and lovely.

Things I didn't particularly like:

1) Some of the humour was a bit crass for me personally, and some of the characters I had a really hard time relating to or even imagining someone similar. 

Overall I'd rate it 5/10 just as the narrative voice wasn't always relatable and some of Ash's actions I found confusing. Nevertheless, I finished the book moved and glad I had read it. 

Let me know your thoughts by commenting, if you have read it. I would love to know what you thought. 

Write soon,


Molly 



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