A Heartfelt Journey Through Life and Loss: A Review of We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman
When I first stumbled upon We All Want Impossible Things, I was drawn in by the relatable premise of lifelong friendship intertwined with the harsh realities of life and death. Catherine Newman’s debut adult novel promised to be a raw exploration of what it means to truly live while grappling with inevitable loss. Little did I know that within its pages, I would find laughter blooming among tears, and a poignant reminder that life is fleeting yet beautifully rich.
At the heart of the story are Edi and Ash, two best friends whose bond spans over forty years. From their carefree youth — filled with stealing vodka and attending concerts — to the gnawing present where Edi faces a terminal cancer diagnosis, their relationship is a testament to the complexities of friendship. As Ash navigates the emotional turmoil of caring for Edi, the narrative seamlessly blends humor and sorrow, creating a tapestry of lived experiences that feels both personal and universal.
One of my favorite moments in the book encapsulates this dynamic. The excerpt portrays a lively gathering — a celebration mingled with impending grief. Ash reflects on the sheer joy of the moment, the festivities contrasting sharply with the heavy reality of Edi’s condition. This duality, where happiness and sadness coexist, deeply resonated with me. I found myself laughing out loud, while simultaneously fighting back tears, as Newman masterfully captures the paradox of life.
Newman’s writing style is both accessible and deeply engaging, striking a balance between humor and gravity. She deftly intertwines the intricacies of Ash’s life with Edi’s journey, creating a rich narrative that immerses you fully. Each character bursts with life, and despite my initial struggle to keep track of them — Jude, Jules, Jonah — I soon found each voice distinct and compelling. Ash, in particular, evolves beautifully throughout the book; she may not have won my heart immediately, but by the end, I would gladly call her a friend.
The book isn’t just about the inevitable farewell; it’s also a celebration of life’s messiness. There’s a line that struck me: “. . . aren’t you the person who eavesdropped on your mum and her Dublin cousin gossiping about someone’s hysterectomy and thought for years that The Troubles in Ireland were gynecological?” This blend of wit and insight is an example of how Newman’s voice resonates so effectively, reminding us that humor often arises from life’s absurdities.
As I turned the last page, I knew this was not just a fleeting read but a poignant addition to my "forever" shelf. This book speaks to anyone who has loved deeply or lost profoundly. It challenges us to embrace the beautiful chaos of life, urging us to savor every moment.
If you’re looking for a novel that weaves together the fabric of friendship, love, and the bittersweet nature of mortality, I wholeheartedly recommend We All Want Impossible Things. Catherine Newman invites us to remember: in the face of sorrow, there’s still joy to be found. This book will resonate with you long after you’ve read the final words.
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