Dear Great Book Guru, The Sea Cliff Civic Association is hosting a wonderful Valentine’s event on Friday, February 8 from 7:30 to 9:30pm at the SC Yacht Club. It will be Love Stories from folks who have appeared on NPR. Last year, it was sold out so I am getting my $15 in this weekend, but first I am looking forward to reading a “can’t put down” novel.  Any recommendation?  

Valentine Gala Goer

Dear Valentine Gala Goer, My book club just read a horrifying yet fascinating novel by Leila Slimani: THE PERFECT NANNY.  The story opens with the words “the baby is dead.”  The rest of this 220 page book tells the story of two women: Myriam the mother of two children and Louise the children’s nanny.  Louise is a magical addition to the household - the chaos of daily life is transformed to immaculate, peaceful orderliness.  The children are well behaved, meals are delightful, and Myriam finds a calm that has eluded her since becoming a mother. Louise takes pleasure in her duties and all seems idyllic until the unthinkable occurs. The complex relationship that exists between a mother and her nanny is brutally described. At times Myriam is in control but then we see Louise move to a position of power; ultimately the economics of worker and employer prevail. Louise lashes out in the only way she sees possible.  This is a very difficult book to read and one you will not forget. Highly recommended!