What We Keep: A Novel (Ballantine Reader’s Circle)
In Elizabeth Berg’s poignant novel, What We Keep, we meet Jenny, a young woman on the cusp of marriage, grappling with the sudden onset of her mother’s Alzheimer’s disease.
Published in 1998, this Ballantine Reader’s Circle selection is a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.
What We Keep is a must-read for anyone who has experienced the complexities of family relationships and the heartbreaking challenges of Alzheimer’s.
It’s a story that stays with you long after you turn the final page.
Overview of What We Keep
What We Keep tells the story of Jenny, whose carefully planned future is thrown into disarray when her mother is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
As her mother’s memory fades, Jenny is forced to confront her own fears and insecurities, as well as the complicated dynamics of her family relationships.
This novel explores the emotional toll of caregiving and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of devastating loss.
Berg’s writing is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, capturing the bittersweet moments of life with remarkable sensitivity.
Structure and Style of What We Keep
What We Keep is structured in a way that mirrors the fragmented memories of Jenny’s mother.
The narrative shifts between the present and the past, revealing the rich tapestry of their shared history.
Berg’s prose is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the characters and their world.
While the story deals with difficult themes, it never feels heavy-handed.
Instead, Berg infuses the narrative with humor and hope, reminding us of the importance of cherishing the moments we have.
The character development in What We Keep is superb.
Jenny is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, and her journey of self-discovery is both compelling and inspiring.
The supporting characters, including Jenny’s fiancé and her father, are equally well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the story.
Perhaps the only minor critique is the pacing, which occasionally feels a bit slow.
However, this allows for a deeper exploration of the characters’ emotions and motivations, ultimately enriching the reading experience.
Content and Themes in What We Keep
What We Keep delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly the mother-daughter bond.
It explores the challenges of navigating changing roles and responsibilities as parents age and children become caregivers.
The novel also examines the impact of Alzheimer’s disease, not only on the individual diagnosed but also on their loved ones.
Berg sensitively portrays the emotional and practical struggles of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, highlighting the importance of empathy, patience, and understanding.
Amidst the sadness and loss, What We Keep also celebrates the enduring power of love and memory.
It reminds us that even as memories fade, the essence of who we are remains.
The novel explores themes of resilience, acceptance, and the importance of finding meaning in the face of adversity.
Through Jenny’s journey, we see how even the most difficult experiences can lead to growth and transformation.
Themes of Memory and Identity
Memory plays a central role in What We Keep.
The novel explores how memories shape our identities and how the loss of memory can impact our sense of self.
Berg’s exploration of Alzheimer’s is both insightful and compassionate, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by those living with the disease and their families.
Love and Loss in What We Keep
What We Keep is a powerful exploration of love in its many forms.
The novel showcases the love between a mother and daughter, the love between romantic partners, and the love between friends.
It also explores the complexities of love and the challenges of maintaining relationships in the face of hardship.
Loss is another central theme in What We Keep.
The novel explores the grief and loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease, but it also touches on other forms of loss, such as the loss of innocence and the loss of dreams.
Resilience and Hope in What We Keep
Despite the difficult themes explored in What We Keep, the novel ultimately offers a message of resilience and hope.
Jenny’s journey demonstrates the ability of the human spirit to persevere in the face of adversity.
The ending of the novel leaves the reader with a sense of closure and a renewed appreciation for the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have.
Conclusion: A Must-Read for Those Seeking Emotional Depth and Resonance
Elizabeth Berg’s What We Keep is a deeply moving and beautifully written novel that will resonate with readers long after they finish it.
It is a story about love, loss, family, and the enduring power of memory, told with sensitivity, humor, and grace.
I highly recommend What We Keep to anyone who appreciates character-driven narratives and enjoys exploring complex themes.
It is a particularly powerful read for those who have experienced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, either personally or through a loved one.
Ultimately, What We Keep reminds us of the importance of cherishing the moments we have and the people who matter most in our lives.
For further reading on Alzheimer’s disease and caregiving, the Alzheimer’s Association website (alz.org) is a valuable resource.
This novel is a remarkable achievement, a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience.
