She's never learned how to live for today: DAYS OF WONDER.

Days of Wonder by Caroline Leavitt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Caroline Leavitt is such a wonderful and unique writer. I know I can always count on her for a different and riveting story. DAYS OF WONDER is no exception. This is not necessarily a happy or uplifting book, but wow, it makes you think. Ella falls madly in love with Jude as a teenager, and the pair spend all their time together, including days at her apartment with Ella's mom, Helen. They avoid Jude's angry and bitter father, a judge who resents him for his mother's death. But when Ella is accused of trying to murder Jude's dad, he pulls strings and she's sent to prison for 25 years, while Jude has no consequences. Neither can remember that night, which doesn't make things any easier.

In prison, Ella discovers she's pregnant and reluctantly gives the baby up for adoption after Jude terminates his parental rights. But when she's released early--after only six years--she's determined to track down her child. What follows is an oft heartbreaking tale of Ella trying to reclaim her life, her child, and her own self while dealing with reentering society as a convicted felon.

WONDER is a little meandering at times, with various plot points that run off in various directions, but it's also captivating. All of our characters are flawed but intriguing, with Ella at the center. She doesn't always make the best decisions, but she has a good heart. The story is told in alternating POV and timelines, between present-day and then flashing to the past, leading up to what happened to the judge. In this way, it serves as part mystery, as no one knows exactly what happened that night, and part literary fiction, probing the bonds between mother and daughter and parent and child. Through Helen's relationship with Ella and then Ella's relationship (or lack thereof) with her daughter, we learn about the sacrifices made for our children... even the decisions the warped judge makes in terms of Jude.

This is such a thoughtful story, and so poignant. I was completely caught up in Ella's world and life. I honestly would read a sequel to learn more about her future. Leavitt's writing is gorgeous, and this is such a different, enjoyable tale, even if the subject matter is often serious and sad. 4+ stars.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Algonquin Books in return for an unbiased review.

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