I have to share with you this book I've read! If you aren't a big reader, check out the audiobook. After you read this tale, which you will love, get excited for the FX adaptation!
The Changeling by Victor LaValleMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
If this whole book was just the story of Apollo & Emma's first year of parenting Brian in NYC, I would have enjoyed it immensely. However, this is not a simple tale of parenting, this is an old school- Black Forest Germany - fairy tale where children are spirited away and monsters walk among us. I completely enjoyed the way Mr. LaValle weaves classic fairy tale lore into the 21st century and works with all the trapping of modern life while telling this ancient tale.
"The Changeling" doesn't shy away from the reality in America where for a black man, any encounter with the police can end in death. This story doesn't shy away from reminding us that far too often the concerns of new moms are brushed aside as they suffer silently with postpartum psychosis. This story doesn't shy away from reminding us we all cling to fairy tales we tell ourselves in order to sleep through the night.
In the end, Victor LaValle gives Emma, Apollo, and Brian some happiness. It's not forever but it's happily for now.
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*****
The summer is already winding down and with that I'm ready to enjoy Fall. I'm hoping for lots of sunny days, low humidity and temps that stay around 70 degrees throughout all of September. Frankly, I'm in no hurry to break out my boots. I am ready to enjoy spooky stories and for that I'm subscribed and enjoying each installment of the podcast Spooked (from Snap Judgement and WNYC Studios). Each week they are counting down to Halloween with a new tale of the paranormal. Are the stories real, are they fiction? I don't know! You can listen via the website or subscribe at iTunes, Stitcher, Npr.org, etc.
