Dear Neighbor, DROP DEAD - Book Review

Ha, I had so much fun reading this book! It is hilariously funny, smart, uplifting and comforting. A deliciously wicked read.

Dear Neighbor, DROP DEAD is a lively romp through the daily lives of two strong, smart women who view and experience life in different ways. It tells the story of how two feuding neighbors navigate the treacherous waters of today's society, juggling kids, husbands and relatives. 

I sympathized with both during their journey from foe to friends, as they struggled with the realities of married life, impossible family clan situations, financial calamities and feelings of inadequacy. The unexpected twist and turns leave you breathless and rooting for both our heroines to succeed and prevail.

The writing style surprised me. I had the feeling I landed smack in the middle of the set of Wisteria Lane and at the same time read someone's private thoughts in their journal or followed an all too revealing on-line blog. The first two chapters were a bit slow while the author set the stage.   

Beth, is oh so easy to hate and envy, with her perfect husband, perfect kids, perfect home. She always appears polished and in control, obsessed with healthy living, controlling everyone and everything in her world. Enter Mindy, with a heart the size of Texas, juggling a part time job while trying to hold together a chaotic family.

Mindy is completely intimidated by Beth from the first day the two women meet. Beth takes pleasure in being the neighbor from hell and turning even the daily kids carpool into a nightmare for Mindy. 

From the third chapter until the very end, I scarcely came up for air, sucked into the vortex of ever changing action, heartbreaks, joys, infidelity and a winning contest entry all presented in an incredibly fast paced, witty style.

You might describe it as a realistic comedy. One which every woman can relate to, from hormonal outbursts to giving guidance to a 17 year old going on 70; who in a series of unfortunate events comes to be embraced as the long lost son and ends up being a hero to boot.

It felt like stepping through a looking glass into the turbulent lives of two very different women. Entirely believable and mesmerizing.

The author, Saralee Rosenberg wrote this book from a contemprorary, female point of view, weaving in life philosophies, moral codes and a unique family history. My only critique would be that less action and a smoother transition into the family tragedies and history towards the end, might have provided the opportunity for an even deeper look into the lives of the characters, resulting in a more polished book.

I enjoyed every catty remark, true to life tantrum and heart tugging episode in this book. It is a celebration of the crazy lives women lead today. A roller coaster ride of two women who become allies in their venture to find love and success while holding their families together.

About the Author

Saralee Rosenberg is the author of four books of nonfiction as well as the recent novels Fate and Ms. Fortune, Claire Voyant, and A Little Help from Above. She lives in Long Island with her busband and three children.

• Go ahead, pre-order your copy at your favorite book seller.
• This book will be on sale starting July 22, 2008. 
• Price: US $ 13.95

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• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Avon A (July 22, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061253774
• ISBN-13: 978-0061253775
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.3 x 0.8 inches