This Is How It Always Is

 By Laurie Frankel

Adult Fiction

Reviewed by Rachael-Altona Branch Administrator

    This Is How It Always Is tells the story of Rosie and Penn and their family.  The book begins with the story of how Rosie and Penn met and began their family.  After 4 boys in a row, Rosie and Penn still want a girl, however, it seems like only boys are on the horizon for this family.  Their last child, Claude, is born a boy, however, as Claude gets older, he realizes he prefers dresses and continually asks if he can become a girl when he grows up. Eventually, Claude becomes Poppy and the family has to navigate how to keep Poppy safe, while still allowing her to be who she is.

    I really enjoyed this book.  The family is hilarious, complex and vibrant, and the book offers a profoundly touching reading experience.  It becomes very easy to get wrapped up in their family dynamics and really feel what they all must be experiencing.  I highly recommend this book.

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