Title: How to Be Second Best
Author: Jessica Dettmann
First published January 1, 2019
416 pages, ebook
ISBN: 9781460710005 (ISBN10: 1460710002)
Rating: 3.9
Overview
Get ready to laugh and cry with How to Be Second Best, the debut novel by Jessica Dettmann. This book perfectly captures the joys and struggles of modern-day parenting, with a touch of Marian Keyes, Allison Pearson, and Caitlin Moran.
Emma thought she had it all figured out when she went from one child to two, but when her husband fathered a third child with their neighbor, Emma’s life is turned upside down. Suddenly, Emma has to juggle being the best ex-wife, part-time parent to her ex’s love child, and finding a new partner.
Set in a competitive, upwardly mobile suburb, this biting and heartwarming comedy looks at the roles we play, how we compete, and what happens when we dare to strive for second-best.
Editoral Review
How to Be Second Best by Jessica Dettmann is a hilarious and heartwarming novel that explores the struggles of modern-day motherhood and the search for personal fulfillment. Dettmann, a former editor and writer, delivers a witty and relatable story that will resonate with readers of any age.
The novel follows the life of a thirty-something stay-at-home mom named Emma, who is dealing with a failed marriage, a new job, and the challenges of raising two young children. Emma is the quintessential “second best” in her own life, constantly comparing herself to her successful and accomplished sister.
As she navigates the ups and downs of her new job and the trials of parenting, Emma learns to embrace her flaws and find happiness in the imperfect moments of life.
Dettmann’s writing style is crisp, clever, and full of humor. She effortlessly captures the chaos and beauty of family life, and her characters are well-drawn and endearing.
Emma, in particular, is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist who feels like a real person rather than a caricature. Dettmann’s descriptions of the Australian setting are also vivid and evocative, adding depth and texture to the story.
One of the strengths of How to Be Second Best is its honest and nuanced portrayal of motherhood. Dettmann doesn’t shy away from the messy realities of raising children, but she also celebrates the joys and rewards of the experience.
She also explores the tension between personal ambition and familial obligations, offering a thoughtful and balanced perspective on the topic.
While the plot of the novel is relatively straightforward, Dettmann’s skillful pacing and expertly crafted dialogue keep the story engaging and entertaining. The novel’s themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the search for meaning are universal and timeless, making it a book that readers of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy.
Overall, How to Be Second Best is a delightful and uplifting read that will leave readers feeling inspired and entertained. It is a testament to the power of humor, love, and family in the face of life’s challenges.
Highly recommended for anyone who needs a good laugh and a reminder that imperfection is the spice of life.
Rating: 4.5/5
