What We Thought: Night Road by Kristin Hannah

Evening Readers Book Club

January 2015

Night Road
 

Kristin Hannah

Readers expressed strong opinions about the characters and the storyline of this month’s selection. There were obvious favorites among readers while others had opposing opinions. Characters’ actions brought out strong emotions which may have been based on personal experiences but were not expressed as such. Some had a definite dislike of Jude because they believed that she could have been better as a mother. They said they could not have behaved as she did toward her children and their friend, Lexi. Others were more sympathetic and said that no one can judge behavior until they have experienced grief themselves.

One reader said she liked the characters and the dynamics of the story. She felt that the story radiated energy throughout the entire book. She saw a complex social issue and told the story in a realistic way. Even though the subject matter was dramatic she declared that it was a nice read. Some enjoyed the predictability of the events while others were aggravated by it and suggested that this story was more appropriate for adolescents and young mothers because the issue of teen drinking and driving would be more relevant. 

This story is the story of a woman’s (Jude's) life and how she mothered her twins. Tragedy strikes and  she deals with it in a manner destructive to herself and family. The author wrote about the character and the portrayal suits her. Jude did not want to be like her own mother, but she ended up behaving pretty much the same way without realizing it until the conclusion of the story when the back story of her own mother was revealed. Finally Jude was able to embrace her family and her twins’ childhood friend. As a result, she could feel joy and become an authentic daughter, mother, and grandmother.

One member read an essay to the group from “The Art of Forgiveness, Lovingkindness, and Peace” by Jack Kornfield. “To remember the transforming power of forgiveness and lovingkindness. To remember that no matter where you are and what you face, within your heart peace is possible.” This brief essay was a perfect complement to the sentiments expressed by the group. 

Do you agree or disagree? Please add your voice to the discussion by using the comments! 

This Month's Selection: Night Road by Kristin Hannah

Evening Readers Book Club

January 20, 2015

6:30 p.m.

For eighteen years, Jude Farraday has put her children’s needs above her own, and it shows—her twins, Mia and Zach—are bright and happy teenagers. When Lexi Baill moves into their small, close knit community, no one is more welcoming than Jude. Lexi, a former foster child with a dark past, quickly becomes Mia’s best friend. Then Zach falls in love with Lexi and the three become inseparable.

Jude does everything to keep her kids on track for college and out of harm’s way. It has always been easy-- until senior year of high school. Suddenly she is at a loss. Nothing feels safe anymore; every time her kids leave the house, she worries about them.

On a hot summer’s night her worst fears come true. One decision will change the course of their lives. In the blink of an eye, the Farraday family will be torn apart and Lexi will lose everything. In the years that follow, each must face the consequences of that single night and find a way to forget…or the courage to forgive.

Vivid, universal, and emotionally complex, Night Road raises profound questions about motherhood, identity, love, and forgiveness. 

Have you read  Night Road? What did you think? Please share your thoughts in the comments here or at the discussion post after the face-to-face meeting!