Roberta Sommerfeld

The Weight of Stones Roberta Sommerfeld

Elsie Dewhurst is a product of the fifties. She believes a woman's role is that of wife, mother, and household manager. "I run a tight ship" is her motto. She believes she has control and influence over her four daughters. Elsie is wrong. Frequently fearful, constantly vigilant, Elsie navigates her life with integrity and grace. She is particularly sensitive to the criticism of her mother-in-law and the perceived notion of what the neighbours might think. Set on the Canadian prairies and spanning the years 1981-1996, The Weight of Stones chronicles the misadventures of the four Dewhurst daughters and their long-suffering parents. Written with empathy, honesty, and humour, the novel explores such themes as family, loyalty, marriage, and forgiveness.