Sandwich

Rocky Aukerman and her family have always treasured their annual week-long retreat to their cherished beach rental in Cape Cod—a sanctuary filled with quirky furniture and pots and pans that evoke a sense of nostalgic bliss. This year, Rocky finds herself sandwiched between two generations: her children, teetering on the edge of adulthood, and her ageing parents, who are fortunately still alive and well. However, this delicate balance is threatened as family secrets emerge and unexpected challenges disrupt their idyllic holiday.

Written by the acclaimed author of We All Want Impossible Things, Catherine Newman's novel Sandwich is an uproariously funny yet poignantly moving exploration of family dynamics, the bittersweet challenges of middle age, and the ever-present potential for change. The story artfully captures the essence of being caught between simultaneous responsibilities while celebrating the joys and complexities that such a situation entails. It is a delightfully compelling read, perfect for fans of Marian Keyes and Nora Ephron.

This joyful summer read has garnered widespread acclaim. The New York Times has recognised it as an instant bestseller, while STYLIST has named it their Book of the Month, calling it 'a holiday reading gem.' The Guardian has praised it as 'wise and exquisitely written,' and beloved author Rachel Joyce describes it as 'a piece of perfection.'

As Rocky navigates the turbulent waters of family secrets, health concerns, and the encroaching waves of change, she must confront the reality that this cherished week might not remain forever untouched by time. The tensions that unfold are met with humour and grace, as every relationship is examined and treasured in Newman's keen, heartfelt prose.

Acclaimed reviews include:

• GRAZIA: 'A summer read with added bite'
• Ann Patchett: 'Sandwich is joy in book form. I laughed continuously, except for the parts that made me cry. Catherine Newman does a miraculous job reminding us of all the wonder there is to be found in life.'
• Nina Stibbe: 'Funny, wise, poignant'
• OBSERVER: 'A gem of a novel'
• Elin Hilderbrand: 'I stand in awe, it's just perfect.'
• i Newspaper: 'If you are after a book to pack on your next holiday, look no further. Here is a novel which will go down as easily as a chilled poolside drink.'
• Jenny Colgan: 'I adored this novel and am forcing it on everyone I know.'
• Guardian: 'Newman is truly a master of taking complex and chaotic human emotion and making sense of it.'
• New York Times: 'If you want to laugh out loud, tear up and rush to pull out a book in the 35 seconds between subway stops, this sweet, savoury, tenderhearted Sandwich fits the bill, and goes down like (bread and) buttah.'
• Rachel Joyce: 'A wonderful book about how families love, disagree, fail one another - and endure.'
• Daily Mail: 'Engaging, frank, funny and moving...in every sense the hot summer read.'

Selected by the Richard and Judy Book Club, Sandwich is not just a novel; it's an experience that resonates with the laughter, tears, and the sheer unpredictability of life itself.