Within Arm's Reach - by Ann Napolitano (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A tender and perceptive novel about three generations of an Irish American family jarred into crisis by an unexpected pregnancy--from the bestselling author of Hello Beautiful

"This stunning . . . exquisite, skillfully written gem addresses serious issues-e.g., guilt vs. loyalty, the past vs. the present--[but] remains hopeful and includes ample doses of humor and wit."--Library Journal (starred review)

No one in my mother's family ever talks about anything that can be categorized as unpleasant or as having to do with emotions. . . .

This spellbinding debut by bestselling author Ann Napolitano is a poignant reminder of how connected we are to those we love, even when we cannot find the words to say it. The unforgettable story of three generations of a large Irish Catholic family, Within Arms Reach is another rich and deeply satisfying novel from the author who captured the many dimensions of grief in Dear Edward and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood in Hello Beautiful.

Review Quotes

"Napolitano writes with beauty and power, skillfully bringing her characters within arms's reach until your heart is taken and this family becomes your own. This novel is a must-read for any book group." --Hannah Tinti, author of Animal Crackers

"Napolitano has created a fascinating family in crisis. . . . Successfully skirting melodrama, [she] gives us a family drama that says even the most contentious can find a bit of happiness." --Hartford Courant

"As if we are friends she brought home for the holidays, Ann Napolitano plops us onto the living room sofa of a big family with big problems and gives us an intimate view of what goes on behind closed doors. Within Arm's Reach is a deft, vivacious novel whose author compels us to stay seated until the very last word." --Helen Ellis, author of Eating the Cheshire Cat

"A fresh and exceptionally strong family portrait." --Denver Post

About the Author

Ann Napolitano is the New York Times bestselling author of Hello Beautiful, the 100th selection for Oprah Winfrey's book club; Dear Edward, a Read with Jenna selection and an Apple TV+ series; A Good Hard Look; and Within Arm's Reach. For seven years, Napolitano was the associate editor of the literary magazine One Story, and she received an MFA from New York University. She has taught fiction writing at Brooklyn College's MFA program, New York University's School of Continuing and Professional Studies, and Gotham Writers Workshop.