Book Review: There’s a Word for That by Sloane Tanen

*I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Title: There’s a Word for That
Author: Sloane Tanen
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
ISBN: 9780316437165

Synopsis from Goodreads:
Introducing the Kesslers: Marty, a retired LA film producer whose self-worth has been eroded by age and a late-in-life passion for opioids; his daughter Janine, former child star suffering the aftereffects of a life in the public eye; and granddaughter Hailey, the “less-than” twin sister, whose inferiority complex takes a most unexpected turn. Nearly six thousand miles away, in London, celebrated author Bunny Small, Marty’s long-forgotten first wife, has her own problems: a “preposterous” case of writer’s block, a monstrous drinking habit, and a son who has fled halfway around the world to escape her. When Marty’s pill-popping gets out of hand and Bunny’s boozing reaches crisis proportions, a perfect storm of dysfunction brings them all together at Directions, Malibu’s most exclusive and absurd rehab center.

If you’re looking for something more light-hearted and a bit more humorous to read this summer, There’s a Word for That might just be the perfect fit. This easy-to-read, often funny novel is full of quick wit and troubled, flawed, but still likeable characters. Brought together at a rehab centre, these characters must each confront their own flaws–and often their own narcissism–, they have to check their egos at the door, and open themselves up to the possibility that there is more to life than their own personal narratives and obsessions. Only then might they make real and actual progress and begin to heal year’s worth of pain and suffering that has driven a wedge between each of them and the rest of their families.

It’s a quick and easy read, full of banter, ridiculous situations, ludicrous amounts of money, and foolish characters, but it wraps up neatly with a very satisfying bow at the end. The novel explores themes of family, romance, parenthood, celebrity, and wealth. It’s not too light and not too heavy, making it the perfectly balanced book if you’re wanting something light and refreshing. It certainly would make for a good beach or cottage read. It’s fun, and funny, and it doesn’t ask too much from the reader. I was able to finish it in just a day. I hope you’ll enjoy it as well.

Happy reading!