It took me some time to get into this book but when I did I enjoyed reading it. The first half of the book progresses at a languid pace. A young boy becomes friends with a neighbouring couple. The book explores loneliness, self-pity, jealousy and the complexity of relationships.
Set in Cape Cod in the 1950s, young Michael, 10- year- old German WWII orphan, is taken to USA and adopted by an American couple living in New York. Michael is sent to Cape Cod to spend the summer and becomes friends with artist Edward Hooper and his wife. Despite the age-gap he enjoys his friendship with Josephine, his new friend in whose company he can relax.
In the background the writer explores class differences, contrast between the haves and have-nots, and gender, as more career choices became available for women undermining the previous primary role as housewife.
Set in Cape Cod in the 1950s, young Michael, 10- year- old German WWII orphan, is taken to USA and adopted by an American couple living in New York. Michael is sent to Cape Cod to spend the summer and becomes friends with artist Edward Hooper and his wife. Despite the age-gap he enjoys his friendship with Josephine, his new friend in whose company he can relax.
In the background the writer explores class differences, contrast between the haves and have-nots, and gender, as more career choices became available for women undermining the previous primary role as housewife.