Nearly one in three American adults is estranged from at least one family member—a sobering reality that underscores the emotional weight of broken familial bonds. In Across the Kitchen Table, acclaimed author Carla Seaquist brings this often-hidden struggle into the light with a poignant and deeply personal narrative. Her book serves as both a memoir and a reflective examination of the tensions that can fracture even the closest relationships.
At the heart of Seaquist’s story is the strained relationship between a mother and daughter, shaped by grief, misunderstanding, and silence. The book chronicles the aftermath of her daughter’s untimely death and the emotional unraveling that followed within her family. Through unflinching honesty and raw introspection, Seaquist guides readers through her journey of sorrow, introspection, and the slow path toward healing.
But Across the Kitchen Table is not merely a recounting of loss—it is a broader meditation on the fragile, often complex nature of familial ties. Seaquist explores the psychological terrain of estrangement with sensitivity and grace, revealing the pain of distance and the yearning for reconciliation. Her storytelling invites readers to reflect on their own relationships and the sometimes unspoken fractures within them.
Carla Seaquist, a distinguished playwright, essayist, and author, is widely recognized for her insightful work on cultural and societal issues. Her award-winning plays, including Who Cares? and Looking for Atticus, along with essays featured in major publications, showcase her talent for navigating nuanced topics with empathy and depth. In Across the Kitchen Table, she brings the same literary sensitivity to a deeply emotional subject, crafting a narrative that is both timely and timeless.
What makes this book particularly powerful is its ability to resonate with a wide audience. Whether or not readers have experienced estrangement firsthand, Seaquist’s narrative underscores the universal need for connection, understanding, and healing. She sheds light on a topic too often shrouded in silence, offering not only a voice to those affected but also a glimmer of hope.
Across the Kitchen Table encourages its readers to confront uncomfortable truths, extend compassion, and rebuild where damage has been done. It’s a heartfelt call to reexamine the bonds that tie us together—and what happens when those ties are tested. For anyone who values family or has felt the ache of disconnection, this book offers a compelling and redemptive exploration of what it means to come back to the table.
Watch the book trailer: https://youtu.be/lmyVYfJKPsw
