Every Last One by Anna Quindlen

The Lathams seem to have it all: health, wealth and a vibrant family life. As Mary Beth Latham contemplates a life built around home, friends and community, she has every reason to feel fulfilled and content.

Then, for one of her sons, a process of unravelling begins. Mary Beth starts to focus on him, only to find that the comfortable life she has spent years carefully constructing is shattered in a single moment. Forced to confront her own demons, Mary Beth realises how the inconsequential moments we all share – and one shameful act she has hidden from everybody – may have contributed to her fate.

Every Last One is a mesmerising and devastating portrait of family life, and a testament to the power of a mother’s love and determination. It is Anna Quindlen’s finest work to date.

Media reviews:

“Every Last One is a breathtaking novel. Quindlen writes superbly about families, grief and betrayal. I was completely mesmerised by this book and Mary Beth and the Latham family will stay with me for a long time to come” Lisa Jewell

“Every Last One, the eloquent sixth novel by former New York Times columnist Anna Quindlen, moves, in the turn of a page, from cosy, slow-burning American pastoral to the gripping stuff of nightmares” The Guardian

“Engrossing . . . A spellbinding tale”  New York Times

Grannynetter Reviews:

“I really loved this book… it is the only book that I can rememeber that has actually made me cry!  Thanks for introducing me to Anna Quidlan, I shall be seeking out more of her books.” Supergran2654

“I liked the book very much. It was disturbing and upsetting, but I enjoyed it” Beth

“I shall pass it on to a friend when they’re looking for a book and I intend to see if there are any of her books in the library next time I’m in.” GrannyHaggis

“I really loved the way the author used adjectives – they conjured up the most amazing pictures in my mind.”  Nanny Sally

You can purchase this book online from Amazon.co.uk.

This book was discussed at the Grannynet Book Club Meeting No.2 on the 30th November 2011.