The House We Grew Up In

You're only as sick as your secrets could be the theme for the story of the Bird Family. They were a happy family living in England until something terrible happens on Easter morning, and the family begins to unravel. The mother Laurie is a hoarder and as the story progress her disease becomes unmanageable, and the family falters. My curiosity about hoarding is what initially drew me to the story. I haven't read much on the topic of hoarding, but after listening to this book on audio, I have a deeper understanding and feel more compassion for people suffering from this sickness.

I became utterly invested in these loveable, yet flawed characters. They're well developed and there was something universal about their quest for happiness while they carried their heavy emotional baggage. The narration was terrific, and the British accents added a sense of place and charm to the story. It's told alternating between past and present, which I usually don't like in an audiobook, but the story was easy to follow. This book offers several different topics for discussion and would make an excellent Book Club Choice.