Moving ~ Surprising ~ Engaging

tl; dr: Young mother has a life-changing experience after attending a retreat. (Actually, this isn't the half of it. But, thats why you must read this book.)

Recently, numerous books have used the trope of the retreat as a device. Maureen Goo's second book includes an influencer retreat. Conley's Elsey Came Home is centered around a retreat. Point being, you might pass this book because you have read something similar. Well, let's me tell you--you haven't. This book surprises the reader on many levels. Firstly, the writing is a bit of a wiley creature, moving seamlessly between forms in a compelling manner. The story is also metamorphic, starting as a middle-aged coming-of-age with hints of Bridget Jones only to morph into something else entirely. The story has a fable-quality, in the best sense of the term. The main character's revelations are personal to her situation but really feel universal. The writing is exceptional, and the story is thoughtful. This book is a rare literary acheivement. Find a copy.

Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Oh, how I loved this book! Moriarty's voice is so accessible and authentic that I fell in love with Abi, the main character in GRAVITY IS THE THING. All of the characters are delightful (with the exception of Abi's husband, who I wanted to give a swift kick in the gonads) and the plot line was one of the most original I have experienced in years. GRAVITY IS THE THING has got it all and I can't wait to read Moriarty's next work. I'll be buying lot of copy of this one as gifts.

I really wanted to enjoy this and I was in the mood for a funny book, but I gave up on this one after reading only a few pages because the writing style just did not work for me. It was too over-the-top.