Competitive Grieving

April 23, 2021

Thirtysomething Wren is a writer for a nonprofit in New York City. The death of her best friend Stewart throws her into complete chaos. Stewart and Wren--whose mothers had first met during pregnancy--stayed connected throughout school and college, and into early adulthood. In that time, Stewart became slightly famous for starring in a sitcom, and Wren continued to be his touchstone. In the aftermath of Stewart's sudden death, Wren is thrust into his family drama. Stewart's family, including his tightly wound mother and free-spirited sister, rely on Wren to assist with his funeral. Worst of all are Stewart's many vulturous friends: his publicist who pretends they were "extremely close"; his cloying actor friends who just want memorabilia to hoard or possibly sell on eBay. Wren's disgusted by all of them, except for Stewart's attorney and friend George. She becomes obsessed with the process of death; in every interaction, she imagines that person's cause of death, their funeral service, even what the memorial buffet might offer. These musings help Wren contend with the gaping hole that Stewart's death leaves in her life. VERDICT Zelevansky's (Will You Won't You Want Me?) quirky novel is a heartfelt look at a lifelong friendship and the impact of a friend's death, which can also open a door in one's heart to allow others in.--Beth Gibbs, Davidson, NC

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