Morningside Heights

by Cheryl Mendelson

This is the first book in the Morningside Heights trilogy, which I happen to be reading in reverse order.

Morningside Heights is, of course, a neighborhood on the upper west side. Full of artsy and intelligent types, MH has its own vibe and unspoken law.

Our story centers on the Braithwaite family, headed by Charles and Anne. Charles is an opera singer, and Anne is a stay-at-home mother of three. There is always music in their home, despite their financial circumstances. You see, being musical doesn’t always pay the bills, and living in New York isn’t really cheap.

Anyway, this story is about a family, their friends and neighbors, and the changing landscape of their neighborhood. It is a story about beliefs, ideals, morals, and even a little serendipity.

The characters are well drawn, the plots are compelling, and the setting is perfect. The connections between characters and their plots are deeply satisfying. Of the three novels in this trilogy, I love this one best. I wish that I could keep reading novels about these people and their beloved neighborhood!

3/11/11