March 1, 2023
By 2019, Ryan Flannigan thought she had left behind her past as a child actor, a lifestyle that was pushed upon her by her now-estranged mother, Fiona. Then breaking news reveals that a controversial photograph of preteen Ryan has been found among the belongings of a famous man recently exposed as a pedophile and sex trafficker. Even worse, the photo is inscribed by Fiona, forcing Ryan to confront pieces of her past she wishes to forget. The story examines 1970s New York City, a dysfunctional mother-daughter relationship, and the sexualization and exploitation of child-stars by those who should protect them. Narration by former child-star Mara Wilson (Matilda) adds authenticity. Wilson is an excellent choice to narrate, given her acting skills as well as her criticism of the problematic treatment of young stars in Hollywood. Her narration is soothing and melodic, good for audiences who enjoy a measured pace, although some listeners may wish to speed it up a notch. VERDICT Greenwood's (Keeping Lucy) latest is a troubling look into the bohemian lifestyles of artists and actors in 1970s New York. Suggest to historical-fiction readers and fans of Tessa Hadley, Janelle Brown, and Ashley Audrain.--Meghan Bouffard
Copyright 2023 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.