Nothing to See Here
by Kevin Wilson
- First published 2019
- 256 pages
- English
Lillian's life is going nowhere. Stuck in her mother's attic and working a dead-end job, she is adrift until an unexpected letter arrives from Madison, her estranged and now very wealthy former boarding school roommate. The offer is bizarre and too good to refuse: move into Madison's sprawling estate and act as a governess for her two young stepchildren. The catch is a secret that must be kept at all costs, especially with Madison's politician husband in the spotlight. The ten-year-old twins, Bessie and Roland, literally burst into flames when they are agitated.
Tasked with caring for two children who are a danger to themselves and others, Lillian is thrown into the deep end of a strange new life. Over the course of a humid Tennessee summer, what begins as a job of simple containment becomes something much deeper. Lillian, who has always felt like an outcast, finds an unexpected connection with these volatile children. This darkly funny and surprisingly tender story explores the strange ways families are formed and the fiery, often messy, business of learning to care for people who have been left behind.
Tasked with caring for two children who are a danger to themselves and others, Lillian is thrown into the deep end of a strange new life. Over the course of a humid Tennessee summer, what begins as a job of simple containment becomes something much deeper. Lillian, who has always felt like an outcast, finds an unexpected connection with these volatile children. This darkly funny and surprisingly tender story explores the strange ways families are formed and the fiery, often messy, business of learning to care for people who have been left behind.
What readers say
3.95
251K ratings across the web 7 in 10 readers loved it, 1 didn't like it
Reviews for this book consistently praise its highly original and quirky premise, revolving around children with an unusual ability. Many readers found the author masterfully handled this strange concept, making it not only believable but also deeply endearing. The narrative, often delivered through the protagonist Lillian's strong and intelligent voice, is described as riveting, dark, emotional, and filled with humor. Reviewers highlighted the book's success in exploring profound themes such as class divisions, the complexities of friendship, otherness, loneliness, and the transformative power of love and family. The characters, particularly Lillian and the children, are frequently lauded as fascinating and relatable, with Lillian's journey from a reluctant caregiver to a fiercely protective figure being a standout. The book is often called a quick, addictive, and unputdownable read that leaves many feeling warm, fuzzy, and deeply moved.
Despite widespread acclaim, some reviewers expressed reservations. A few found it difficult to connect with the story, feeling it fell flat or that the characters, at times, came across as one-dimensional. The humor and frequent use of expletives were occasionally perceived as more flippant than genuinely funny, with one reviewer specifically noting the overuse of strong language as tiresome. Certain aspects, such as the initial pace or repetitive dialogue descriptors, were mentioned as minor drawbacks. For some, the resolution felt rushed or overly sappy, and a few critics suggested that the plot, beneath its unique hook, could feel thin or mundane in places, with some relationships potentially lacking deeper emotional development.
Overall, the book garners a largely positive reception, celebrated for its unique blend of the bizarre and the mundane. It is widely considered a heartwarming and emotionally resonant story about finding connection, purpose, and unconventional family in unexpected circumstances. Readers who appreciate quirky, humorous, and tender-hearted narratives, especially those willing to embrace an unconventional premise with an open mind, are likely to thoroughly enjoy this book. It is highly recommended for anyone seeking a quick, engaging read that explores themes of motherhood, responsibility, and acceptance, ultimately leaving them with a sense of happiness and satisfaction.
Despite widespread acclaim, some reviewers expressed reservations. A few found it difficult to connect with the story, feeling it fell flat or that the characters, at times, came across as one-dimensional. The humor and frequent use of expletives were occasionally perceived as more flippant than genuinely funny, with one reviewer specifically noting the overuse of strong language as tiresome. Certain aspects, such as the initial pace or repetitive dialogue descriptors, were mentioned as minor drawbacks. For some, the resolution felt rushed or overly sappy, and a few critics suggested that the plot, beneath its unique hook, could feel thin or mundane in places, with some relationships potentially lacking deeper emotional development.
Overall, the book garners a largely positive reception, celebrated for its unique blend of the bizarre and the mundane. It is widely considered a heartwarming and emotionally resonant story about finding connection, purpose, and unconventional family in unexpected circumstances. Readers who appreciate quirky, humorous, and tender-hearted narratives, especially those willing to embrace an unconventional premise with an open mind, are likely to thoroughly enjoy this book. It is highly recommended for anyone seeking a quick, engaging read that explores themes of motherhood, responsibility, and acceptance, ultimately leaving them with a sense of happiness and satisfaction.
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Details & editions
- This edition
- The Text Publishing Company, 2019
- ISBN
- 9781925923032
- ISBN-10
- 1925923037
- Language
- English
Original edition Nothing to See Here Originally published in 2019 · English · Ecco
