American Family - by Catherine Marshall-Smith (Paperback)

About the Book

Richard and Michael, recovering alcoholics, struggle to gain custody of Richard's daughter from her grandparents after her mother's death only to discover they--and she--are fundamentalist Christians.

Book Synopsis

Richard and Michael, recovering alcoholics, struggle to gain custody of Richard's daughter from her grandparents after her mother's death only to discover they-and she-are fundamentalist Christians.

Review Quotes

"A nuanced portrait of what it means to be a family, with a bit of melodrama but plenty of heart." -Kirkus Reviews "A poignant literary pageant of custody battles, alchoholism, religious restraint and family turmoil, this tremendously moving read will leave you in bouts of feels all summer long." -Redbook "An emotionally gripping read that explores the deepest of cracks in a dysfunctional family, this poignant book belongs in the hands of every parent this summer." -Working Mother "This emotionally gripping tale about a gay man who must battle his way to sobriety and convince his ex father-in-law he is worthy of a relationship with his 10-year-old daughter will leave every dad moved. If you want your gift to finally induce your dad to weep in your presence, this might be your chance." -Popsugar "When Richard confronts his daughter's fundamentalist Christian grandparents for a second chance at fatherhood, the most emotionally harrowing and heavy family drama of 2017 unfolds. Be sure you pack tissues in the glove compartment." -Brit+Co "A heartbreaking and emotionally riveting reading experience that reminds readers that most every American family has its dysfunctional ghosts. This explosive novel will add drama to your summer from Page 1." -SheKnows

About the Author

Catherine Marshall-Smith published her debut novel, American Family, in 2016. She is a founder of Café Writers Online, a weekly interactive forum for discussion led by experts on the craft of writing and publishing. She holds a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley in English literature, a teaching credential from San Jose State University, and a Writing Credential from UCLA, where she was nominated for the James Kirkwood Award for excellence in the writing of fiction. A former English teacher, she lives with her husband in the San Francisco Bay Area.