The Bradshaw Variations, By Rachel Cusk
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.This is a wise, witty, subtle, empathetic gem of a novel. It's a dissection of family life over three generations. Tonie has accepted a promotion to work full-time as a university head of department; her husband, Thomas, has become a house husband, looking after their daughter Alexa; and Thomas's embittered parents snipe at each other and everyone else.
With amazing economy, Cusk shows every possible point of view: we see how wives look to husbands, husbands to wives, brothers to brothers, parents to children, children to parents, teacher to children, friends to friends. Cusk combines thought and feeling effortlessly; her style is elegant, laconic and musical.
Every description is hyper-real, from how it feels to be alone in a suburban house to how it feels to commit adultery. Each chapter is beautifully crafted. You'll sigh, laugh and cringe with recognition. And you'll see every member of your family through newly empathetic eyes.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments