BOOK REVIEW: White Oleander, by Janet Fitch
This book tells the unforgettable story of Ingrid, a poet and eccentric, imprisoned for murder, and her 12 year old daughter, Astrid. Because of her mother's imprisonment, Astrid is forced to live for 6 years in a series of foster homes in southern California. Each experience is its own universe, with a different set of laws, dangers, and lessons to be learned. When interviewed, the author said "I've always been concerned with what happens to children in our society when there's nobody left to take care of them. Of course Astrid would end up in foster care - and start moving from house to house and really seeing the various components of our society. We don't have a unitary society anymore, you know; it's very fragmented."

The characters in this novel are fresh and unique. The language relates a story that is both intelligent and gripping. It is a heartbreaking story, without a trace of sentimentality. The book contrasts Astrid's loyalty and love for her mother with her anger and need to survive. Janet Fitch's prose is astonishing. White Oleander, a beautiful but poisonous plant, is an apt metaphor for motherhood in this novel. I would highly recommend reading this book (don't just watch the movie) - it is wonderful!

Review by: Kathleen Sheehy