Sleeping Arrangements
Cunningham, Laura ShaineA humorous memoir about growing up. Adopted by her two eccentric bachelor uncles after her mother's death, the author describes growing up in an unorthodox, but happy, Bronx household during the 1950s.
Comments from Groups
Everyone really enjoyed 'Sleeping Arrangements'. We found the characters extremely engaging - the Uncles' characters were delightful, as was the grandmother. It was a little disturbing in the early stages, but would highly recommend. Dunedin 012 Everyone thought this book was interesting, but felt much of it was 'made up" or a figment of the author's imagination. Nevertheless, all enjoyed it. Waiheke 001 Most found the book very enjoyable; an amazing and different childhood to any we have experienced. The writing style was excellent - we would all like to know more about Laura's life, and will endeavour to read more of her books. A very lively discussion as always! Queenstown 005 Everyone enjoyed this beautifully told memoir. We had a good discussion about Lily's sexual encounters as a youngster and the way they were described. Some of us thought this aspect far-fetched and not quite believable. Others thought it totally believable. What warmth and affection shines from this book! Auckland 133 There was a mixed reaction to this book. Some found it quite entertaining with some wry humour, but others felt it was an unlikely recall of a small girl's memory, and so was in part augmented by her imagination rather than reality. Taupo 006 Quirky, and a delightful light read. Nelson 051
Pages
240
240
Year
2000
2000
Reviews
26-07-2023
Unnecessarily descriptive in places, but with comic interludes to lighten the darkness of a very unusual childhood.
06-05-2022
Most members of our group enjoyed this book. We appreciated the eccentricity of the characters and the warmth of the relationships.
31-01-2022
We found it quite disturbing - her childhood 'games' with her friends had such sexual overtones for such young children! What a fabulous relationship she had with her uncles, but we felt it was dismissed by the abrupt ending. What happened to their relationship after she went to college Is she still close to them etc.
31-01-2022
Mixed reaction. Most enjoyed it, especially the uncles. Some felt the precocious children were exaggerated.
31-01-2022
An easy read which everyone enjoyed, and the discussion was interesting.
31-01-2022
A great book enjoyed by all who read it.
31-01-2022
Really enjoyed the book! All very positive comments.
31-01-2022
A popular good read!! Fascinating insight to the 1950s through the eyes of a not so innocent 5 year old. Great discussion book. We all enjoyed it!
31-01-2022
Very enjoyable with laugh out loud moments. Covered serious issues , but written in a light, entertaining style. Great portrait of a loving, caring and supportive family.
31-01-2022
Wonderful story - warm - the 2 uncles endearing!
31-01-2022
Some were enthusiastic, others not so. Some parts were funny, some sad. Good discussion.
20-09-2021
Mixed reaction to this book. Enjoyable and the characters were interesting but found it hard to believe that the author could recall so much from childhood.