Houses: A Novel

Cynthia Rogers Parks
Leigh Walker Books (2009)
ISBN 9780615328935
Reviewed by Leslie Granier for Reader Views (01/10)

 

People remember their lives in many different ways.  Some define them based on important family occurrences such as weddings or birthdays.  Others consider important career moves such as promotions or closing a huge business deal.  Lacey Winters measures her life story by the houses in which she has lived.  She tells her history beginning with the earliest memories of her grandmother’s house in the 1960s.  She shares her successes and failures, her joys and sorrows, and other poignant memories up to present times.  In addition to momentous events in her personal life, she reminisces about key historic events such as the Vietnam War, the assassination of Robert Kennedy, and the fight for equal rights for women.

The book is written in a style reminiscent of the popular television show “How I Met Your Mother” in that Lacey is narrating her experiences to her children.  The author provides vivid descriptions of the houses that helped shape Lacey’s life and her attempts to decorate them in her own style.  I truly enjoyed the parts that focused on her childhood and early adult years.  Those moments were touching.  Even though this is a work of fiction, the author made me feel that the character of Lacey could represent any person I have ever encountered.  She brought her to life and made her very realistic.

Many authors try to tell someone’s life story and do a fairly good job.  However, Cynthia Rogers Parks raises the bar with this book.  She manages to advance the story at an appropriate pace while also including minute details.  Many stories leave the reader hanging and wanting more.  “Houses” is different; it seems complete.  Everything I wanted to know and every question I wanted answered was provided.  This story seems very personal as if it could have been based on a real person.

“Houses” by Cynthia Rogers Parks will appeal to all women.  Baby boomers will especially appreciate its content as the different fads and trends from their younger years are revisited.   The importance of maintaining lifelong friendships is an important part of this story.  This book is very nostalgic and heartwarming.  Be prepared to laugh, but do not be surprised to shed a few tears.

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