Mother
by Bryan C. Sanctuary

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Harry has always known that his family is dysfunctional. From his mother’s early affair to her screaming tantrums, the psychological and emotional toll of her chaotic influence and destructive relationships has had a lasting effect on her four children. From post-WWII America through to modern times, Harry recounts what it was like growing up in such a family, and how each of his siblings deals with the trauma of their childhoods. The narrative weaves together themes of good versus evil, family dynamics, German-Jewish tensions, and Harry’s mother’s hedonistic lifestyle. Despite dark undertones, humor and fantastical elements lighten the story. As Harry’s mother confronts her past on her deathbed, revelations about her life and its impact on her children culminate in a tragic and cathartic resolution, blending humor, raw emotion, and existential reflection. A powerful novel about the complex and multifaceted aspects of human experience, Mother is perfect for readers who seek both emotional resonance and intellectual engagement. It will be of particular interest to readers looking for family sagas, historical settings, and psychological drama. Given its layered themes and opportunities for deep discussion, the book is particularly suited to book clubs and discussion groups.

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Bryan C. Sanctuary is an author, scientist, and retired professor. He’s published more than 140 papers in peer-reviewed journals and co-wrote the textbook Physical Chemistry by Laidler, Meiser, Sanctuary (2003). He’s had the story of Mother in him for a long time, and when his nephew committed suicide, the book poured out in response. Bryan spends his free time reading scientific articles and researching quantum mechanics. He maintains a Buddhist garden with Chinese statues and enjoys a bit of farming on the side. Bryan lives on a farm in southeast Ontario with two cats and nice neighbors.

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Bryan C. Sanctuary