{"title":"Bernice Rubens","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBernice Rubens\u003c\/strong\u003e crafts richly textured stories that delve into the complexities of human nature and family dynamics. Her writing, often marked by a sharp wit and deep psychological insight, invites readers to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the quiet upheavals within everyday lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eReaders of Rubens’ work can expect immersive narratives that balance dark humour with poignant moments, set within compelling general fiction frameworks. Titles like \u003cem\u003eThe Elected Member\u003c\/em\u003e showcase her talent for portraying flawed, deeply human characters in situations that resonate beyond the page.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-elected-member-by-bernice-rubens-9780349144344","title":"The Elected Member","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Elected Member\u003c\/em\u003e portrays Norman as the clever one of a close-knit Jewish family in the East End of London. An infant prodigy and brilliant barrister, he is the apple of his parents' eyes until, at forty-one, he becomes a drug addict. Confined to his bedroom, he is at the mercy of his hallucinations and paranoia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor Norman, his committal to a mental hospital represents the ultimate act of betrayal. For Rabbi Zweck, Norman's father, his son's deterioration serves as a bitter reminder of his own guilt and failure. Only Bella, the unmarried sister, still in her childhood white ankle socks, can reach across the abyss of pain to bring father and son the elusive peace they both desperately crave.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette Aotearoa New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48010623680748,"sku":"9780349144344","price":27.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780349144344-the-elected-member.jpg?v=1785154612"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.co.nz\/collections\/bernice-rubens.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}