'Anywhere But Here' by Mona Simpson is a poignant and complex story that follows the journey of Ann and her mother, Adele, as they move from Wisconsin to California in pursuit of a better life. The book delves into the dysfunctional dynamics between the two characters, with Adele's grandiose dreams contrasting with Ann's desire for normalcy. The narrative is told from multiple viewpoints, offering a layered exploration of love, ambition, and the complexities of family relationships. The writing style includes abrupt plot twists, alternating between moments of misery and amazement, creating a realistic portrayal of the rollercoaster of emotions within the August family.

Characters:

The characters are deeply flawed and complex, with Adele's unpredictable nature casting a long shadow over Ann's development, creating a relationship filled with both tension and a strange bond.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is lyrical and nuanced, showcasing the author's skill in using subtle details to convey deep emotional truths across multiple narratives.

Plot/Storyline:

The story intricately weaves the journey of a mother-daughter duo seeking fulfillment amidst chaos, revealing familial dysfunction and the emotional toll it takes on both.

Setting:

The setting shifts between Wisconsin and California, serving as a backdrop for the characters' quest for a better life while highlighting their emotional struggles.

Pacing:

While the pacing has moments of unevenness, the overall flow keeps readers engaged, though some may find it drags in parts.

We fought. When my mother and I crossed state lines in the stolen car, I’d sit against the window and wouldn’t talk. I wouldn’t even look at her. The fights came when I thought she broke a promise. Sh...

Notes:

The book is written by Mona Simpson, who is also the half-sister of Steve Jobs.

It tells the story of a mother-daughter duo, Anne and Adelle, as they travel across America from Wisconsin to California.

Adelle is depicted as a narcissistic and unstable mother, impacting Anne's personality and emotional state.

Reviewers consistently mention Adelle's character as both abusive and loving, creating a complex dynamic with her daughter.

The book is praised for its literary quality and is considered a profound example of literary fiction.

Simpson employs different narrative perspectives to enrich the storytelling, though some readers find this disruptive.

There is a sequel to Anywhere But Here, which readers are eager to explore after finishing the book.

Some readers find the portrayal of family dysfunction relatable, while others feel it is overwhelmingly negative.

The journey reflects the American spirit of restlessness and pursuit of a better life, often resulting in disappointment.

The book's style features beautiful imagery and poetic prose, but some readers feel it lacks a clear narrative arc.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings may include family dysfunction, emotional abuse, mental health issues, and themes of instability.

From The Publisher:

A national bestseller-adapted into a movie starring Natalie Portman and Susan Sarandon-Anywhere But Here is the heart-rending tale of a mother and daughter. A moving, often comic portrait of wise child Ann August and her mother, Adele, a larger-than-life American dreamer, the novel follows the two women as they travel through the landscape of their often conflicting ambitions. A brilliant exploration of the perennial urge to keep moving, even at the risk of profound disorientation, Anywhere But Here is a story about the things we do for love, and a powerful study of familial bonds.

Ratings (5)

Loved It (3)
Liked It (2)

Reader Stats (13):

Read It (4)
Want To Read (7)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
Anywhere But Here?

See the list (100 books)

About the Author:

Mona Simpson is the author of Casebook, Anywhere But Here, The Lost Father, A Regular Guy, Off Keck Road, and My Hollywood. Off Keck Road won the Heartland Prize from the Chicago Tribune and was a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award. She has received a Whiting…

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Anywhere But Here

Mona Simpson