this is just a perfect novel. as an exploration of the transition from girlhood/adolescence to womanhood and the pressures of femininity, i've never read anything as painfully accurate or as gorgeous.

i think part of the reason it resonates so strongly with me is the vastness of experiences it portrays, while at the same time it doesn't feel forced or like too much is going on. i thought the plot from the 1970s timeline could have existed on it's own and it would still have been a strong novel, but with the addition of ruth's perspective as an adult (more specifically as a mother) and maeve's story it elevates the book to perfection.

if this doesn't end up becoming a classic, i'll be surprised.