January 25, 2015
“All the betrayals — the tiny and the monstrous – that define the coming-of-age narrative have come together in Caitlin Hicks’ latest work, “A Theory of Expanded Love.”
“I took on this review as I take on many projects – an impulsive response that the next morning seemed more chore than delight, but five pages into the story I was enraptured.
“Hicks distills God, love, politics and family to their essence through the eyes and ears of Annie, the insouciant centrepiece of an early 60s fleet of Catholic navy brats. Yes, I’m a middle-aged, male atheist, but Hicks made me feel for a time that, “Je suis Annie.”
“To be clear, A Theory of Expanded Love is not a Young Adult novel. Its narrator might be twelve, but the doubts and pain and resolutions Hicks explores through Annie’s voice speak carefully, fluently and deeply to those of us all.
“You will read this book. If not now, you’ll be tempted next year by the awards it garners; if not then, its movie adaptation will finally woo you . . .”
Gord Smedley, journalist
Heidi Ferber
“Just wanted to send a quick note telling you I am absolutely enjoying your book. You are hilarious and would love to pick your brain . . .
“By the way, have you ever read A Prayer For Owen Meany by John Irving? It is one of my all-time favorite novels and it, too, centers around faith and youth. You should have a read. I think you would enjoy it as your book reminds me of it.
“I can’t believe you called Africans pygmys. Oh my lord. That nearly sent me over the edge.
“What a riot.
“Loving this and very happy to be reading your creation,
“Feb 6, 2015 – Just want you to know, Caitlin Hicks, that I was in tears last night busting a gut. Seriously. Spitting vegetables into your milk?! . . . LOL. #sequel? – Heidi Ferber
