April Rising - Softcover

Lemâitre, Corene

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0006511333 ISBN 13: 9780006511335

Publisher: HarperCollins, 2000

Synopsis

A funny, sharp and also moving first novel about a young woman – and a whole family – taught a lesson in life by the person they least expected to be able to teach them anything at all.

Although she sees herself rather differently (a very mature feat of storytelling in itself), Ellen is a spoiled middle-class girl who has never done a day’s work in her life. Returning from a trip to Europe with the intention of surprising her doting parents and adored elder brother, she is appalled to find her place in the arty, health-food-eating, politically-conscious family taken by an overweight junk-food and soap-opera fan by the name of April who introduces herself as the brother’s girlfriend. Worst of all, the entire family seems very fond of April to the extent that they are all eating chocolate breakfast cereal and ignoring the exotic traveller Ellen.

There follows a very funny comedy of modern manners, in which Ellen tries to get rid of April, and in so doing comes eventually to grasp some home truths about herself.

About this title

About the Author

Educated at New York University, where she read drama and trained in Stella Adler’s studio, Corene Lemaitre was editor for the source magazine and is now a full-time writer. She is based in London.

From the Back Cover

Ellen's back from a two-year trip around Europe. Too bad she didn't find time to phone home. But her parents are bound to welcome her, shower her with affection, and roll out the fatted calf in the form of finance for her next great escape. Aren't they?

But something's changed in the perfect suburban household. Someone's sleeping in her bed and taking her place at the table. The impossible has happened: big brother James has been bewitched by a white-trash golden girl in red marabou-topped slippers. Worse, everyone loves her. Ellen's been usurped by a junk-food fan called April.

Other dilemma's complicate matters. Ellen desires the elusive – and dangerous – Frederick, who refuses to give her the time of day. She craves career satisfaction but lacks the drive. She longs for James to resume his role in her life as best friend. Burt above all, she wants her place in the family back – and that means getting rid of her rival.

While April's popularity soars, Ellen grits her teeth and plots her downfall. It's not simple. April may not have had the benefits of an expensive education but when it comes to family, she's an expert – more than can be said for Ellen, who is too busy looking for the enemy to see that people are not always what they seem…

''April Rising' stands on its own terms: a sharp and distinctive novel about family life. Lemaitre has wit and warmth, and the ability to be strange.'
NICCI GERARD

'Impressive…enough sardonic wit to keep even the most cynical book reviewer happy'
DAILY MIRROR

Edition details

• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Publication date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0006511333
• ISBN 13: 9780006511335
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 288