“How come gray hair on handsome men makes them look distinguished and sexy, while gray hair on a pretty woman means she is getting old and should head to the stylist for a $200 touch up?”
If you happen to pick up a copy of How Do You Know? By Meredith Schorr, the above quote pretty much sums up your experience.
The leading lady in How Do You Know? is 39-going-on-40 year old Maggie Piper. Maggie has just turned 39, she’s single, and she thinks her life is over . . . sort of. She is in a job she likes, dating a wonderful man named Doug.
Maggie proceeds to break up with Doug because he’s not “exciting” and embarks on a year of bad decisions.
No. A year of horrific decisions.
Maggie spent her year being 39 making dumb decisions in an effort to find happiness. Along the way, she spends little time thinking about the happiness of others, but obsesses about having never been married and having no kids. She also OBSESSES over turning 40. Throughout the whole book, it’s like this ticking time bomb that is going to explode and destroy her life.
But you know what? Selfishness doesn’t lead to happiness. And growing older doesn’t have to be a negative thing.
By the end of the book, Maggie learns these lessons in a somewhat roundabout way.
Maggie is a character who finds her identity in her relationships. I found her dependency on a relationship to be a bit overwhelming and seriously unhealthy.
If you’re looking for a light, somewhat humorous piece of chick-lit, How Do You Know? is for you. If, however, you’re a more critical reader, this may not be your cup of tea.
Happy Reading!
Live, Love, Learn,
Candice & The Write Teacher(s)