Introduction

The novel from bestselling author Lisa Alther--now available as an ebook

Caroline is a giver--as an ER nurse, as devoted lover to her partner, Diane, as a divorced mother of two boys, and as the daughter of world-class do-gooders--but can she accept help from others and still be herself?

When trauma cases in the ER leave Caroline emotionally paralyzed and her relationship with her partner, Diane, breaks down, she knows its time to take a look at her life and do something she'd never imagined: go to therapy. Her therapist, Hannah, knows a thing or two about sacrifice and pain. A former war bride, Hannah may live a seemingly cozy domestic life with her beloved husband and two grown children, but she can't forget her own harrowing past. As she and Caroline work together, each comes to understand and admire the resilient woman sitting before her.

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Discussion Questions

Other Women is recommended to book clubs interested in exploring themes of friendship, resilience, and the endeavor to be happy or one’s best self.

With immense humor, sympathy and feeling, author Lisa Alther introduces Caroline Kelly, a kind-hearted do-gooder who struggles in accepting help from others. Despite avoiding herself over the years through various preoccupations—marriage, feminism, work, alcohol, consumerism, true love—she ends up on edge, full of darkness, in her mid-thirties. Caroline’s plight is a pervasive one in our society, and it’s fascinating to see her ask for help from the wise, extremely engaging therapist, Hannah. Caroline’s journey is a therapeutic one, not just for her and Hannah, but for readers as well.

"One of the best books I have read in a while. I just couldn't put it down until I had finished it, and then I was sad that it was over. This book has everything: Humor, compassion, wisdom, insight, and great characters. It makes you think deeply about your own life and your relationships. The slow transformation of the main character Caroline is fascinating as she goes through therapy and takes a critical look at herself and her past. I have bought copies for all my friends to read and they all liked it just as much. If you tend to get depressed during the winter months, read this book as it may not only cheer you up but may also give you a fresh new perspective on your life."—Amazon.com Reviewer

“Alther's genius as a novelist is her ability to capture and juxtapose the odd combinations of personality, gender, class, culture, family life, and chance that shape human destinies . . . Artfully counterpointing the feelings of client and therapist, Alther demonstrates the terror and comfort generated by the psychotherapeutic process.”—San Francisco Chronicle

"Witty, acute and compassionate.... Alther has great emotional range. She can give you the hush of New Hampshire woods in winter. She can get a sad smile out of you and she can make you laugh."—Baltimore Sun

Weblinks

»	Open Road's video interviews with Lisa Alther
»	Lisa Alther's web site

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