The Mutual Admiration Society: A Novel — A Heartfelt Journey Through Grief and Adventure
From the very first page of Lesley Kagen’s The Mutual Admiration Society, I found myself swept into the tender and tumultuous world of eleven-year-old Theresa "Tessie" Finley. Having adored Kagen’s previous works, I was immediately drawn to this novel, not only by the promise of an engaging mystery but by the exploration of profoundly human themes — familial bonds, grief, and the bittersweetness of childhood innocence.
At its core, The Mutual Admiration Society intertwines the sharp edges of loss with the soft warmth of growing up. Tessie is a spirited young girl grappling with the tragic drowning of her father. She embarks on an unexpected quest to solve a murder mystery that unfolds in her small, 1950s blue-collar neighborhood, all while navigating her relationship with her quirky younger sister, Birdie, and their hard-edged mother. Tessie’s self-appointed role as president of her crime-stopping society is both humorous and poignant, reminding us of the resilience found in youthful imagination even against the backdrop of heartache.
Kagen’s writing style shines with whimsical humor and rich detail, effortlessly capturing Tessie’s voice. For instance, I chuckled at the moment when Tessie mentions her strategy to confess “fake sins in my Shirley Temple voice” to dodge the weight of guilt. These playful quips are not just entertaining; they create a vivid snapshot of childhood and its complexities. Yet, amidst the humor lies an undercurrent of sadness that feels both real and relatable. Kagen vividly portrays Tessie’s emotional landscape as she juggles her detective adventures with the weight of her unresolved grief.
One notable highlight from the book is the way Kagen paints the characters, grounding them in their quirks and struggles. Tessie’s fierce loyalty and love for Birdie shine through, revealing the depth of their sisterly bond. I felt a palpable empathy for both girls, particularly as they dodge the scrutiny of their nosy neighbor, Gert Klement. Their escapades reminded me of my own childhood adventures — the thrill of seeking out mysteries in the most mundane settings.
However, it’s worth mentioning that some readers may find the pacing a touch uneven. While the build-up and exploration of character emotions are rich and rewarding, certain sequences could feel sluggish. This perhaps reflects Kagen’s intention to mirror the sometimes meandering nature of childhood exploration, but it does leave a mixed impression regarding the narrative’s flow.
As I turned the last pages, I couldn’t help but reflect on how The Mutual Admiration Society resonated with my own childhood. It’s a gentle reminder that the journey through grief, while difficult, is also filled with moments of laughter, love, and heartwarming mischief. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys character-driven narratives steeped in heart and humor, particularly those fond of coming-of-age stories.
In essence, The Mutual Admiration Society isn’t just a tale of solving a mystery; it’s a celebration of the fragile beauty of childhood, genuine connections, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. Kagen has once again crafted a story that lingers, inviting readers to reminisce about their own childhood adventures while navigating the complexities of life. Grab a cozy spot, perhaps a cup of tea, and let Tessie’s world charm you — it’s a delightful trip well worth taking.