From the author of Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend comes a novel about a teenage boy coping with the rupture of his family by viewing his mother in an unusual light.
It is nearly impossible to put down The Other Mother. Michael is a captivating narrator. His voice is strong, raw and unique, and through all of his trials and tribulations, his big heart continues to shine through as he fights for the people he loves -- and also for himself. The rest of the characters are equally complex, dynamic and lovable ... Filled with emotion, pain and joy, The Other Mother is well worth the read.
... compelling ... These heart-swelling moments are crafted with pitch-perfect honesty and tenderness, but they are never saccharine ... a readable and brisk coming-of-age novel, and Michael is a fascinating character (Julia is also particularly well written). While the abrupt ending may leave readers wondering, it is quite enjoyable while it lasts. This is an absorbing, sympathetic and, at times, frightening look at secrets and revelations, and growing up with trauma and with love.
... highly readable ... Dicks nails Michael’s inner thoughts and dialogue, and his portrayals of his relationships (with his siblings and the psychologist in particular) are refreshingly sweet. The 'other mother' conceit wears thin after a while, mostly because Michael’s story is compelling enough, but it takes little away from this engaging novel.
