finished reading

This is a beautiful exploration of a multi-generational American-Irish family. It is interesting to look at generational shifts, and how family dynamics have changed over time: the size of families and what binds families together, secrets and what happens when they are revealed, and how everyday actions can drive a wedge in a relationship or create tighter bonds.

The story is told from the perspectives of six different characters: Catherine, the matriarch of the family; her eldest daughter, Kelly; Kelly's husband, Louis; their two daughters, Gracie and Lila; and Noreen Ballen, a nurse who is hired to care for Catherine after she has a fall. As the story unfolds, we learn about the secrets and lies that have been passed down through the generations, and how they have affected the relationships between the family members. We also see how each character is struggling with their own personal demons, and how they are all trying to find their place in the world.

From the publisher:

No one in my mother’s family ever talks about anything that can be categorized as unpleasant or as having to do with emotions. . . .

This spellbinding debut by bestselling author Ann Napolitano is a poignant reminder of how connected we are to those we love, even when we cannot find the words to say it. The unforgettable story of three generations of a large Irish Catholic family, Within Arms Reach is another rich and deeply satisfying novel from the author who captured the many dimensions of grief in Dear Edward and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood in Hello Beautiful.

#52BookClub prompt 30: Audiobook has multiple narrators