Nothing to See Here
Why I picked it up? I found this book on a friend’s bookshelf. She has a great collection of second hand books that is always worth a look when I stay. The cover certainly caught my eye. Turns out that Nothing to See Here is about two kids who catch on fire when they are stressed or angry. Really, it’s about the woman engaged to mind them after their mother has died. The kids have been through a lot and the self-combustion is a metaphor for the wildly out-of-control feelings these kids have felt for awhile. Lillian, the protagonist, is enlisted by an old acquaintance, Madison, to care for the children. Madison and Lillian were in boarding school together. Lillian was there on scholarship. An incident at school sends them down different paths in life. Now Madison is married to a politician. His kids catch on fire. This is bad for his career.
The story is an interesting take on the practical and extraordinary lengths one goes to accommodate or ignore deep feelings. Certainly it should fuel ;) a great book club discussion.
Who I would pass it on to?
I would give this book to Anna. She is a deep thinker about the human condition. She is the friend who probes the deepest on feelings and is always exploring how to navigate them.
About the Author
Kevin Wilson is the New York Times bestselling author of five novels, including Now Is Not the Time to Panic, Nothing to See Here, and The Family Fang, as well as two story collections. His work has received the Shirley Jackson Award and been selected as a Read with Jenna book club pick. He lives in Sewanee, Tennessee, with his wife and two sons.
Same Shelf
Fire Starter by Stephen King (1980)
