Book Review: Spectacular Things by Beck Dorey-Stein
When I first laid eyes on Spectacular Things, I was drawn in by the promise of sisterly bonds tested by ambition, love, and sacrifice. Beck Dorey-Stein’s previous work left me captivated, and I couldn’t wait to dive into this modern tale that Reese Witherspoon hastily deemed a book club favorite. Little did I know, it would leave an impression far greater than I anticipated.
At the heart of the story are Mia and Cricket Lowe, two sisters navigating life under the watchful eyes of their mother and the weight of each other’s dreams. As daughters of a single mom, they grow up in a small Maine town where expectations and vulnerabilities collide. Mia, the responsible elder sister, becomes a caregiver at a young age, while Cricket’s vibrant spirit drives her toward soccer stardom. It’s a poignant exploration of what loyalty means—when does supporting your sister become sacrificing your own dreams?
Dorey-Stein’s writing is effortlessly engaging; she paints a vivid tapestry of emotion that resonates deeply. I found myself enamored with the intricacies of the characters. Mia’s internal struggles and Cricket’s relentless ambition come alive on the page, echoing my own experiences of family dynamics and the pursuit of dreams. The author has a unique ability to draw readers into the emotional core of her characters, evoking a sense of attachment that lingers long after the last page.
One moment that particularly struck me was when Mia contemplates the boundaries of sacrifice and love. The narrative asks, "What would you give up for the person you love most? What would you expect in return?" It’s a question that sparked my own reflections on familial love and the often-blurred lines between support and self-neglect. This haunting sentiment stayed with me, urging me to consider how similar circumstances play out in real life.
The pacing of the story is masterful—it oscillates between tender moments and gut-wrenching challenges, inviting readers to experience the rollercoaster of emotions alongside the sisters. The plot twists feel genuine and not merely constructed for shock value, a testament to Dorey-Stein’s insightful storytelling.
For anyone who has ever loved fiercely or faced the complexities of familial relationships, Spectacular Things serves as a striking mirror. It’s a book that remains in your thoughts, perhaps a bit like how the Lowe sisters loom in each other’s hearts.
Who would benefit most from this beautiful narrative? If you’re a fan of deep character studies, inspired by tales of resilience and sisterhood, or simply craving an emotional journey that reminds you of the sacrifices we make for those we love, this book is for you.
Having closed the book with a heart full of both ache and hope, I can confidently say that Spectacular Things left an indelible mark on me. It’s a testament to the bonds we forge and the ambitions we chase, a reminder of what makes life, in all its complexities, truly spectacular.
You can find Spectacular Things: Reese’s Book Club: A Novel here >>