By 
An estimated 30% of American adults are estranged from at least one family member—a sobering statistic that underscores a widespread, often unspoken emotional burden. Carla Seaquist addresses this painful reality with striking honesty and sensitivity in her evocative book, Across The Kitchen Table. This work is not merely a memoir, but a stirring exploration of familial fracture, grief, and the journey toward healing, all seen through the intimate lens of a mother-daughter relationship marred by sorrow and misunderstanding.
Seaquist delivers a profoundly reflective narrative that delves into the intricate layers of family dynamics. Following the devastating loss of her daughter, she recounts the emotional fallout that led to the disintegration of her family ties. With unflinching vulnerability, Seaquist guides readers through the turmoil of estrangement—unraveling themes of regret, communication breakdowns, and the long, painful road to reconciliation.
Renowned for her work as a playwright, essayist, and author, Carla Seaquist brings the same depth and nuance to Across The Kitchen Table that marks her broader body of work. Her acclaimed plays—Who Cares? and Looking for Atticus—and her essays on personal, cultural, and political themes have appeared in notable publications and reflect her enduring commitment to tackling complex human issues with clarity and compassion.
In this book, Seaquist turns her narrative skill inward, casting a light on a topic many shy away from discussing: the quiet devastation of familial estrangement. Yet, she does so without bitterness. Instead, her words extend a hand to readers navigating similar emotional terrains, offering not just resonance but the possibility of renewal.
Across The Kitchen Table is not just for those who have endured estrangement—it is for anyone who cherishes the bonds of family and seeks to understand their fragility. Seaquist encourages readers to confront uncomfortable truths, open paths to forgiveness, and commit to the hard work of understanding. Her message is clear: while family fractures may run deep, the potential for healing—and reconnection—remains.
This deeply personal yet universally relatable narrative stands as both a mirror and a beacon for those who know the weight of unresolved conflict. Seaquist’s work reminds us that even across the divides of silence and grief, the simple act of sitting together at the kitchen table can be a powerful beginning.
Watch the book trailer: https://youtu.be/lmyVYfJKPsw
Comments