Book Review: Sandwich: A Novel by Catherine Newman
There’s something inherently charming about summer vacations—those fleeting weeks filled with laughter, sun-kissed memories, and a touch of chaos. This was precisely what drew me to Sandwich: A Novel by Catherine Newman. As a fan of Newman’s previous work, I was eager to dive into this tale of family dynamics, personal growth, and life’s inevitable messiness.
At the heart of Sandwich is Rocky, a character who feels so authentic that I couldn’t help but see flashes of myself in her—especially as she navigates the tumultuous waters of menopause while sandwiched between her half-grown children and aging parents during a seemingly perfect vacation to Cape Cod. Newman navigates this delicate balance with grace and humor, reminding us that even in our most chaotic moments, there is profound beauty.
The plot unfolds over one precious week, a microcosm of life itself, where everything is both in balance and in flux. I found myself laughing out loud one moment and fighting back tears the next. Newman’s keen observation of family dynamics brought a relatable energy to the narrative, with each character offering a visceral view of the struggles and joys that come with love and responsibility. The wild mix of hormonal challenges and nostalgic reflections makes for a rollercoaster of emotions that really resonated with me.
Newman’s writing sparkles with wit and warmth. She has a true gift for capturing the nuances of family life, seamlessly weaving together moments of hilarity with deeper reflections on the passage of time. A particularly memorable quote that stuck with me is when Rocky muses, “Life doesn’t just unfold—it unravels, too, in the most unexpected ways.” This encapsulates the essence of the novel, illuminating a truth that many of us grapple with: the idea that life often doesn’t go as planned, but that’s where the magic often lies.
The pacing of the novel is just right; it flows effortlessly, much like a summer breeze. Newman’s knack for dialogue is also noteworthy, adding layers to her characters’ relationships. Each interaction feels genuine and relatable, reminiscent of family gatherings where laughter mingles with unspoken tensions.
I’d recommend Sandwich to anyone who cherishes stories about family, love, and the complexity of human relationships. It’s a delightful read for those of us who have ever felt overwhelmed yet deeply grateful for our loved ones—all intertwined in life’s grand adventure.
Ultimately, Sandwich: A Novel left me feeling both content and reflective. It’s a reminder that amidst the chaos of life, there’s beauty to be found and shared. This book is a heartfelt tribute to the messy, wonderful tapestry of family life, making it a perfect companion for summer reading—or any time you need a little dose of joy and introspection.
So grab a copy, find a cozy spot, and allow yourself to be swept away by Rocky’s journey. You just might find a piece of your own story nestled between the pages.
You can find Sandwich: A Novel here >>