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The novel is set in the small town of Cotswolds, England, and follows the Bird family over the course of several decades. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including those of the four Bird siblings: Meg, Beth, Rory, and Rhys, as well as their parents, Lorelei and Colin. The novel begins in the 1980s, when the Bird children are young and carefree, and their home is a place of warmth and love.
As the story unfolds, however, it becomes clear that the Bird family is not immune to tragedy. Lorelei, who is a hoarder, becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn, and her mental health deteriorates. The family is torn apart by a devastating event that occurs when the children are teenagers, and they are forced to confront the secrets and lies that have been hidden within their family for years.
One of the strengths of The House We Grew Up In is the way in which Jewell explores the complex dynamics of family relationships. Each of the Bird siblings has their own unique personality and struggles, and their interactions with one another are both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Meg, the eldest sibling, is the responsible one who takes care of everyone else, but she also harbors a deep sense of guilt over the tragedy that occurred in their family. Beth, the middle child, is rebellious and independent, but she also feels a sense of abandonment from her parents. Rory, the only boy, is the peacemaker who tries to keep everyone together, but he also struggles with his own identity and sexuality. Rhys, the youngest, is the innocent one who is caught in the middle of his siblings’ conflicts, but he also has a deep understanding of his mother’s mental illness.
The audiobook version of The House We Grew Up In is particularly effective in bringing these characters to life. Fernandez’s narration is nuanced and emotive, and she captures the different voices and personalities of each character with skill and sensitivity. Her performance adds an extra layer of depth to the novel, making it a truly immersive experience for the listener.
Another strength of the novel is the way in which Jewell explores the theme of mental illness. Lorelei’s hoarding disorder is a central part of the story, and Jewell handles it with sensitivity and compassion. She shows how Lorelei’s illness affects not only her own life, but also the lives of her family members. The novel also explores the stigma and shame that can be associated with mental illness, and the difficulty of seeking help and support.
The House We Grew Up In is also a novel about the power of secrets and the impact they can have on a family. The tragedy that occurs in the Bird family is the result of a long-held secret that is finally revealed, and the aftermath of this revelation is devastating for everyone involved. Jewell shows how secrets can fester and grow over time, and how they can ultimately destroy relationships and families.
Despite the heavy themes of the novel, there are also moments of humor and warmth that make it a truly engaging read. The Bird family is quirky and eccentric, and their interactions with one another are often funny and endearing. Jewell also captures the nostalgia and sentimentality of childhood memories, and the way in which our past experiences shape who we are as adults.
Overall, The House We Grew Up In is a powerful and moving novel that explores the complexities of family relationships, mental illness, and the impact of tragedy on a family. The audiobook version of the novel is a particularly effective way to experience the story, thanks to Karina Fernandez’s engaging narration. Whether you’re a fan of family dramas or simply looking for a compelling and emotional read, The House We Grew Up In is a novel that is sure to leave a lasting impression.