Leaning, Leaning Over Water by Frances Itani

Leaning, Leaning Over Water

Frances Itani

A family story set in post war Canada, which details everyday life as told by the 'in between' daughter. Anybody living with mental problems, be they family, friends or themselves, will find this story a painful but ultimately valuable experience. It is above all a story about recognising your own strength.

Extract
Dear Granny Tracks
This week mother chopped some of the furniture while we were at school. I am not supposed to put this in the letter. She dragged the furniture down to the River and made a bonfire. Father was very mad but mother was mad too....
Mother says that because I am her child in-between it is my job to see both ways, forward and back. When I grow up, I am the one who will be doomed to tell the family stories.
Parallels
  • The Highest Tide by Jim Lynch
  • Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd