This is a haunting, tragic, and distressing family tale, an enthralling page-turner primarily because it centers on an abysmal act by one individual that affects everyone for whom he cares. David Henry leads the perfect life; he -s an orthopedic surgeon married to a wonderful, beautiful woman. It is 1964, and there -s a terrible snowstorm in Lexington, KY, when his wife goes into labor. The bad weather keeps Norah -s ob/gyn from making it to the hospital, so her husband, along with his nurse, Caroline Gill, decides to deliver the baby in his clinic. Under sedation, Norah gives birth to a healthy boy. As David is thrilled by the birth of his son, Norah starts to have more contractions. He quickly sedates her again, and she gives birth to a girl with Down syndrome. Wanting to protect Norah and feeling she would not be able to cope with a mentally challenged child, David gives the baby to Caroline and asks her to place her in an institution and never reveal their secret. The novel, read by Martha Plimpton, is told through different characters - points of view, moving from one person -s thoughts to another, always keeping the secret at the center of the story. "The Memory Keeper -s Daughter", while ultimately hopeful, tells much of the dark side of human understanding and relationships. Recommended." -Carol Stern, Glen Cove P.L., NY" Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

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