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CLT Mamas Who Read

A book club for mamas in CLT who want to read books and talk to other adults once in a while.

The Garden of Small Beginnings

"A quirky, funny, and deeply thoughtful book"* that's "filled with characters you'll love and wish you lived next door to in real life"** from the author of The Bookish Life of Nina Hill.

Lilian Girvan has been a single mother for three years--ever since her husband died in a car accident. One mental breakdown and some random suicidal thoughts later, she's just starting to get the hang of this widow thing. She can now get her two girls to school, show up to work, and watch TV like a pro. The only problem is she's becoming overwhelmed with being underwhelmed.

At least her textbook illustrating job has some perks--like actually being called upon to draw whale genitalia. Oh, and there's that vegetable-gardening class her boss signed her up for. Apparently, being the chosen illustrator for a series of boutique vegetable guides means getting your hands dirty, literally. Wallowing around in compost on a Saturday morning can't be much worse than wallowing around in pajamas and self-pity.

After recruiting her kids and insanely supportive sister to join her, Lilian shows up at the Los Angeles botanical garden feeling out of her element. But what she'll soon discover--with the help of a patient instructor and a quirky group of gardeners--is that into every life a little sun must shine, whether you want it to or not...

READERS GUIDE INCLUDED

*HelloGiggles
**Bustle

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368 pages

Average rating: 7.65

26 RATINGS

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3 REVIEWS

Community Reviews

Debi Loves to Read xoxo
Nov 15, 2024
7/10 stars
Super cute book about relationships, awkward re-entry into the dating world, tough love and mental health wellbeing. Fast and easy read, the characters are delightful. If you are looking for a sweet beach read, this is your book!
@MissLitLife
May 20, 2024
8/10 stars
A sincere, delightful and charming read that explores big themes such as grief, loss, and regret in a gentle and tongue-in-cheek way. Absolutely adored the cast of characters, fun banter, and the good feels and cheers this book provides. I enjoyed the story so much, I read it in one sitting!
Valarie
Apr 26, 2024
8/10 stars
A little cheesy, but also delightfully snarky. A light read with filter-free gardening advice at the beginning of each chapter.

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