The Birthdays

The Birthdays by Heidi Pitlor is a reprint edition published by W. W. Norton in May 2007, featuring 370 pages in English. This novel centers on the Miller family as they gather on an island off the coast of Maine to celebrate the father’s seventy-fifth birthday. Each adult child faces significant life changes, including impending parenthood and personal challenges, setting the stage for a poignant family reunion.
Readers will find a narrative that delves into the complexities of family life and the emotional landscapes navigated by each character. The story unfolds as Daniel grapples with the aftermath of a life-altering accident, Jake navigates the excitement and anxiety of impending twins, and Hilary confronts her own unexpected pregnancy. The Birthdays intricately examines themes of disappointment and resilience, offering insights into the ways families seek connection and support during transformative moments. A reading group guide is included to facilitate discussion.
Official synopsis Publisher
On an island off the coast of Maine, the Miller family reunites to celebrate the father’s seventy-fifth birthday. Each of the adult children is expecting a first child, and at the same time each is at a major crossroads in life. The eldest, Daniel, still reeling from a car accident that has left him a paraplegic, is also grappling with the fact that his wife had to be artificially inseminated. Jake, the middle child, discovers that his wife is carrying twins after many trying years of fertility treatments. Hilary – the free-spirited youngest daughter – arrives in Maine five months pregnant with no identifiable father in sight. As the family gathers, something shattering happens from which no one will emerge the same. The Birthdays deftly explores the myriad ways of seeking sustenance after disappointment or loss. Reading group guide included.
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