It's here! Browse the 2024 Penguin Christmas gift guide
One True Thing

One True Thing

Summary

Ellen Gulden is a successful, young New York journalist. But when her mother, Kate, is diagnosed with cancer, she leaves her life in the city to return home and care for her. In the short time they have left, the relationship between mother and daughter - tender, awkward and revealing - deepens, and Ellen is forced to confront painful truths about her adored father.

But in the weeks that follow Kate's death, events take a shocking and unexpected turn. Family emotions are laid bare as a new drama is played out, and overnight Ellen goes from devoted daughter to prime suspect, accused of the mercy killing of her 'one true thing'.

One True Thing is the devastating story of a mother and daughter, of love and loss, and of shattering choices.

Reviews

  • A very good novel indeed - the relationship between mother and daughter is a triumph. This novel deserves to be bought, read and kept.
    Elizabeth Jane Howard

About the author

Anna Quindlen

Learn More

Sign up to the Penguin Newsletter

For the latest books, recommendations, author interviews and more