Songs Without Words

Songs Without Words by Ann Packer is a beautiful, sometimes heartbreaking novel. It tells the story of the lifelong friendship between Liz and Sarabeth, two women now in their 40's living in the Bay Area.

Sarabeth's mother committed suicide when Sarabeth was only 16. She then moved in with Liz's family, and their bond as sisters was forever formed. Now decades later, Liz has a teenage daughter of her own in crisis, and Liz and Sarabeth's friendship is put to the test.

Packer writes so convincingly and with such introspection about the relationships we have with our family, our friends, and even with ourselves. She also writes of the harrowing descent into depression. She uncovers our deepest emotions and fears, our frailties, and  ultimately our humanity. Songs Without Words is a thoughful and moving novel.