impression I want to end on is that I liked the motherhood themes in this book.31:T744,I’m not a mother, I’ve never even really considered being a mother. But as a woman, I felt such a strong connection to Blythe and her monstrous thoughts. It’s the worst fear a mother could have, to resent your own child, and this book solidifies that fear into a terrifying reality.

Despite everything, I can’t say I would have done anything different from Blythe. A lot of women feel like their connection with their child isn’t strong enough, and Blythe’s experience is this x10. Her daughter’s actions are hard to read, hard to process, and hard to grieve without wanting—as Blythe says—for Violet to have died instead.

I mean seriously, I wanted to throat punch Violet this entire book, 6 years old or 14, it doesn’t matter. HOWEVER! I understand she was in a state of shock and had regrets after, but wow Blythe should have told someone about her daughter tripping that little boy. They could have gotten her psychological help and stopped all of this. But again, this book is brilliant in how it tackles motherhood and dealing with a daughter who is basically evil straight out of the womb, and not wanting to admit any perceived failure as a mother.

Now FOX! Seems like a good dad, but drove me insane. I understand this was the point, so his characterization was amazing. How no one even entertained the idea of Violet doing the things she did is beyond me. I sympathize with Blythe so much. The fact that I’m not gonna find out what happened to Gemma’s son drives me crazy!!!

I really enjoyed this book, more than I thought I would have. At first I considered the writing style to be kind of abstract and try-hard, but it quickly grew on me and felt like a very personal narrative. I especially appreciated it when Blythe explained her post-Sam change in writing. Brilliant.

5/5

The Push: A GMA Book Club Pick - Likewise Book Reviews

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