This Book Will Not Save Your Life

Too big for regular medical equipment, Sylvia Swamp is on her way to a veterinary hospital for an emergency procedure. While the ambulance workers try to keep her alive, Sylvia contemplates her life and her place in the dysfunctional family that she both idolizes and detests. Sylvia's mother, Ruth, is obsessed with the common sense advice in the book, Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care, but common sense is exactly what eludes her. Sister Sadie wants to follow in her mother's footsteps as an assistant to a magician. But once Sadie dons the sequins, Ruth must learn to share not only the applause but also the erotic attentions of Marvellous Marvin. Meanwhile, the somnolent Mr. Swamp turns to TV and booze for escape. Who in this misfit family will crack first? It appears that not even the good doctor can save the Swamps from their fate. . . .

"This is a story about magic - and about what happens to a family when magic goes missing, costumes no longer fit, and love disappears backstage. Michelle Berry is the best kind of magician, the kind who rather than save your life reminds you why life is worth living." — Jessica Grant, author of Come, Thou Tortoise

". . . a thoughtful study of a dysfunctional family in mid-1980s Toronto." — Kathryne Cardwell, Winnipeg Free Press

“Michelle Berry is a talent (…) her willingness to navigate such challenging darkness is admirable.” — Moira Dann, The Globe and Mail

Michelle Berry was born in California, grew up in Victoria, and currently lives in Peterborough with her family. Her writing has appeared in literary magazines across Canada and she is the author of three books of short stories. This Book Will Not Save Your Life won the Enfield & Wizenty literary award. It is her fourth novel.