Kaleidoscope

A Novel

By: Cecily Wong

Narrated by: Courtney Lin, Dan Bittner

A dazzling novel about the tumultuous relationship between two sisters, a shocking loss that changes everything, and the life-altering adventure that follows.

Morgan and Riley Brighton are joint heirs to Kaleidoscope: a glittering, ‘global bohemian’ shopping empire—created in sleepy Oregon and catapulted into haute New York—sourcing luxury goods from around the world. Morgan, statuesque beauty and Kaleidoscope’s talented designer, is adored by all, especially by the Brighton parents. Yet no one loves her more than Riley, whose shy and adventurous spirit is exalted by her sister.

When a catastrophic event dismantles the Brightons’ world, Riley must stand in the spotlight for the first time in her life, with questions about her family that challenge her memory, identity, and loyalty. Restless and heartbroken, she sets off across the globe with the person she least expects, to seek truths about those she thought she knew best—herself included.

Kaleidoscope is at once an examination of the precious bond between sisters as well as a vibrant story of exploration and surprising love. Moving and funny, warm and wise, Cecily Wong delivers a transporting, addictive page-turner that will tempt your appetite for food and travel and change the way you imagine your place in the world.

What happens when the glue is gone?

Riley and her sister Morgan seem to be a pair. Even when Riley tries to pull away from her family and her older sister to make her own way, they follow. To Riley's thinking, Morgan is the favored child, the talented one, the pleaser. In fact even Riley acknowledges that things are better when the two are together.

Then the unthinkable happens. The glue that holds the family is gone and everything is exploding around them. Soon, realizing that she has to follow her own path through grief, Riley meets up with James, Morgan's boyfriend, and together they plan to leave their pain behind.

While not my usual fair - I feel too old for young adult angst - Kaleidescape is a good look at how families grieve, alone and together. A decent read.

Disappointed

This story doesn’t compare with the author’s previous novel. I was unable to invest in the characters and could not finish the book.