Rosewater: A Novel

“It’s weird, isn’t it? We don’t really see adults as having lives as messy as ours.”

“It’s probably a good thing I never got in your knickers then, isn’t it? I’d probably have broken your heart.” My words tumble out without grace and Juliet’s forehead crinkles, the mood shifting. “No, my heart broke when you stopped speaking to me.” “Oh Juliet, you know I love you, don’t you? I’ll always love you. It’s just …” “You don’t need to sa

“Elsie, you know I don’t like it when you don’t speak up. I raised you to use your voice, not swallow it.”

I’m still beaming. She’s my father, mother, and grandfather rolled into one. All the family I’ve ever needed.

She’s standing in the middle of the kitchen with her arms wide open and I dive straight into them. She squeezes me deep. She feels smaller than before, more fragile. I used to be convinced that my superhero nan would never age, but I can see that time is enveloping her.

And even though I’m in a room full of people, I feel completely alone.

you taught me the word eclectic And pointed to my heart and told me to protect it At all costs

You’ve gotta let them, Elsie. Let people love you.”

“You young people think life is so straightforward. In reality, it’s all a fucking mess.”