The unlikely mix of family history, parenting, basketball, Chicago, mental health and love, most of all love, are all elements of Ann Napolitano’s Hello Beautiful.
Much has been written regarding this as homage to Little Women. Yet, the references are brief with themes beyond what Louisa May Alcott addressed. Yes, there are four sisters: Julia, intent on a better life; Sylvie, the librarian with whom she is closest, who dreams of finding her one true love; and twins Cecelia, and Emeline.
Beginning in 1960s, Napolitano’s novel provides perspectives from different characters. William Waters is a sad child neglected by his parents dealing with years-old grief. Basketball courts are the only places he finds a sense of belonging.
His skills and physical growth develop almost simultaneously. By the time he’s in high school, William is 6’7” and good enough to earn a scholarship to Northwestern University. There, he meets Julia the eldest of the Padavano sisters who decides William is the man for her. That is, unlike her father: kind but lacking motivation. Julia has long-range plans for William; he just wants to play ball while he can.
The Padavano family embraces William in ways he never experienced. What follows is a multi-decade narrative addressing depression and belief in the power of love.
When Julia gives birth to their daughter, William despairs he’s an emotionally-distant parent. What ensues is an upheaval in the relationships of all the characters. Napolitano creates such a credible rift; it’s questionable whether repairing the damage is possible.
Hello Beautiful
Four Bookmarks
The Dial Press, 2023
387 pages (includes acknowledgements)
The Blue Page Special 