I truthfully have no idea how I stumbled upon The Wednesday Sisters, which was published a decade ago. My guess is that I was looking for another book in the same stack and the spine caught my eye. Then, the synopsis did it’s job and reeled me in hook, line and Miss America crown.

It reads:

When five young mothers – Frankie, Linda, Kath, Ally and Brett – first meet in a neighborhood park in the late 1960s, their conversations center on marriage, raising children, and a shared love of books. Then one evening, as they gather to watch the Miss America Pageant…

That’s when I stopped reading and tucked it under my arm to take home with me. A tight circle of friends, historical references, books AND Miss America chatter…obviously, this book was written for me to read.

There were times when I wasn’t sure where the story was taking me or what the point of certain sections was, but the characters and the stories they shared were so interesting and authentic, sometimes heartbreakingly so, that I kept reading.

There were really high highs (success in careers and the birth of a baby) and really low lows (a cheating husband and a life-threatening illness) – and one question that the writer, Meg Waite Clayton, never addressed (what did the old mansion have to do with anything and why was Ally sneaking into it to play an out of tune piano?…really though…why?), but the ending… it was like I was watching it happen right before my very eyes it was so well written. I saw every little detail.

The last few chapters were emotionally driven and heartwarming and simply spectacular. After I read the last line, I put the book down and, with a big smile on my face, said aloud to absolutely no one, “I loved that book!” and I meant it. It was such an enjoyable read that simply makes you feel good.

I want to live on their street and be part of their inner circle and watch Miss America and write novels with The Wednesday Sisters. So, if you’re looking for a mindless read to help you escape your own reality for a bit or to enjoy on a lazy vacation, I’d add this one to your list, especially if you’re a pageant girl (like myself) or have ever attempted to write anything for someone else’s entertainment (…also like myself) or simply enjoy reading about women who lift up and support each other, celebrate with each other and have each others’ back (…still me!).

I’m sure you’ll fall in love with The Wednesday Sisters like I did!