Review: The Perfect Summer read, A Unique American Story
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 21, 2014
I couldn’t help myself, I had to read American Angst by Laurel Osterkamp, a story about two cousins-in-law, Lucy and Robin Bricker. I’d met them before—I’d read and loved The Holdout, Starring in the Movie of My Life, and Blue State—so I was looking forward to hearing more from them. I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed, and I was right. The story is an intrigue, a perfect summer read, a romp and dig, a surprise through the lives of two cousins-in-law and their significant others.The structure is pure Osterkamp, each chapter weaving Lucy’s story and POV with Robin’s. Although at one point the characters meet in a believable and humorous situation, most of the time the chapters concern either Robin or Lucy. In addition to the structure, what I love about the book are syntax, plot, its unique American flavor, and above all, the way Laurel Osterkamp’s characters grow—or not.American Angst is an unputdownable read. It’s about young adults who grow and slip, who love and suffer, who are together in their being part of—and apart from—the same generation in the same family. It’s about married Lucy and single Robin. It’s about the push and pull of family, the impact of public events on private lives. If you love drama and humor, surprise and sorrow, you won’t want to miss American Angst.