W3 Book Club-“The House We Grew Up In” by Lisa Jewel

by Teri Popp & Laura Chin, Tastemakers in Residence

Sometimes our book club reads focus on difficult concepts. Such was the case when our host, Sussan, chose “The House We Grew Up In” by Lisa Jewell. Set in the picture-perfect Cotswolds in England, Jewell’s novel shines a spotlight on a family in the aftermath of tragedy.

Jewell’s lyrical prose shares the story of the Byrd family over the years as they navigate Easters in their home. From lovely childhood memories of Easter egg hunts and foil-wrapped, candy eggs, to the devastating loss of a loved one, to relationships thrown asunder by emotional baggage carried through the years, the family mirrors many of the issues facing our own familial landscapes. The author’s deft handling of literature belies the difficulty of subjects such as hoarding, adultery, abandonment, aging parents and depression. But, in the end, Jewell shows that a family can mend and forgive with time and love.

Sussan graced her table with Easter-themed decor, and chose the following family holiday meal for her menu:

Melted Brie Cheese with Quince Jam and Cherry Tomatoes
Crackers, Nuts, Hummus, Chips, and Grapes
Green Salad with Sussan’s Special Dressing
Lamb Shanks in Mushroom Sauce
Roasted Root Vegetables
Crunchy Basmati Saffron Rice
Popovers
English Trifle