Book: We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves

"We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves" by Karen Joy Fowler is a captivating novel that intricately weaves a tale of family dynamics, identity, and the complexities of human-animal relationships. The story is narrated by Rosemary Cooke, who begins her account in the middle of her life's timeline. As Rosemary slowly unravels her past, the reader is drawn into the mystery of her family's unusual structure, which includes her sister Fern, whose absence casts a long shadow over Rosemary's life. Fern is not an ordinary sibling, and the revelation of her true nature serves as a pivotal turning point in the narrative. Through Rosemary's introspective and candid lens, Fowler explores themes of memory, childhood trauma, and the bonds that define us. The novel's rich character development, coupled with its profound emotional depth, challenges readers to reconsider preconceived notions about family and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Fowler masterfully blends humor and heartbreak to create a thought-provoking and unconventional story that lingers long after the final page.