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Reads more like a very long essay than a conventional memoir, which both adds to and detracts from its charm.
Feature image credit: Simon & Schuster
It is always exciting to hear from local voices, and it feels meaningful to read and celebrate homegrown talent, so I was thrilled to be able to read the work of another local author, Gemma Parker, who currently teaches creative non-fiction at the University of Adelaide. Although Parker has travelled and worked abroad, her references to South Australia give this book familiarity.
This memoir is largely about the ‘trappings’ of motherhood and embracing this role in an ever-changing world. As Parker navigates motherhood she continues to be quite absorbed in her literary world, amusingly noting how the kids at times are somewhat of a distraction from her path. It may come across as self-indulgent, however I like this sardonic frankness, and felt it contributed to the idea of nihilism, which is the investigative path she is pursuing.
Although her life story sounds genuinely interesting, her privilege is apparent, which gives the memoir a narrow frame of reference. This may limit its appeal for mainstream mothers, yet for those who have had professional careers or are involved in the creative pursuits, her memoir will be more relatable.
For myself, I found the book never quite bridged the gap between the author’s inner world and me as the reader. Structurally, it reads more like a very long essay than a conventional memoir, with frequent quotations and references. While it was interesting to see her apply the ideas of philosophers and writers to her own life and interpret their meanings, I felt it drowned out her own voice. It felt like Parker was trying to reach out and be seen, but the writing never quite followed a clear or specific point, so I was left unsure of what she ultimately wanted to say.
But maybe that is the point? The book is about nihilism so in its truest sense her form and style reflect the concept perfectly? It was a little fragmented and meandering without a specific point and all throughout the memoir she tests the theory that life has no inherent meaning.
Her use of French throughout the text, and how much it is part of her life (her husband is French) adds to the literary flair and also provides some type of tenderness as she reflects on her progress in the language. As it is a factual and intellectualised text rather than overtly emotional, these personal moments give humour and grounding.
Reviewed by Rebecca Wu
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Simon & SchusterReleased: January 2026RRP: $34.99
