M/ Elizabeth Clark's The Mother's Group


Irreverent and surprisingly gripping look at the lives of four San Francisco moms

Major Disclosure: Elizabeth is my sister-in-law, so you can't get much more conflict-of-interest-y than family.

That being said, I read this book mostly so I could help her with some marketing. I didn't expect to really get into it, because, well, a) I'm not a mom and b) I don't live in San Francisco.

But Elizabeth definitely has a way with a tale, especially in driving normal everyday scenes, so that you're anxious to see how things turn out. And the way they do turn out is unpredictable yet believable.

Despite the fact that all of these women are mothers, and a big part of the book is related to their feelings about that old "life balance" thing, I still felt I could relate to the more basic struggle they were each having. They've woken up, taken a look around, and wondered "how did I get here?" And I think most of us can relate to that feeling.

The other fun aspect to this book is that it gives a peek into San Francisco society, and a side of it that most of us don't even realize exists. It reminded me of the many books that expose that side of New York, from authors like Jay McInerny and the woman who wrote the Devil Wears Prada. I don't think there are a lot of books that have done a similar thing for San Francisco. Even though I don't live there it's fun to see the various dropped names, brands, restaurants and neighborhoods that I have at least passed through.

If you're a mom, or you're having your midlife crisis early, or you've always wondered what the fabulous denizens of Pacific Heights think are the must-have accessories, then check out the Mother's Group.

Buy The Mother's Group at Amazon.com

Posted: Mon - February 13, 2006 at 11:44 AM       EmailFeedback

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