The Other Hand / Little Bee

Last summer a few friends came through town for a visit and waffle sandwiches. Quickly the conversation turned to my friend's new book. Naturally, I asked, "What's it about?" "I can't tell you" she very quickly replied, "but you have to read it." It seems that the editor believed so strongly in the unfolding of the story that she requested readers not spoil it for others.

Several months later I came across The Other Hand by Chris Cleave while browsing the bookshop. I flipped to the back and read, "We don't want to tell you what happens in this book." Immediately I thought of that summer day eating our waffles at a picnic table and my friend's very mysterious book recommendation.

After a little research I discerned that indeed it was the same book only under a different title. It was published as Little Bee in North America and The Other Hand worldwide. (Why?)

Since I can't give you a recap of the story... here's a bit more from the back of the book from where I left off:

"It is a truly special story and we don't want to spoil it. Nevertheless, you need to know enough to buy it so we will just say this:

This is the story of two women. Their lives collide one fateful day, and one of them has to make a terrible choice. Two years later, they meet again - the story starts there...

Once you have read it, you'll want to tell your frinds about it. When you do, please don't tell them what happens either. The magic is in how it unfolds."

So there you have it.

Recommendation: When you're ready for a quick engaging read that just might possibly give you night sweats, let this be it.