A heartfelt novel that explores the themes of longing, loss, and unexpected connections against the contrasting settings of 1979 suburban New York and war-torn Vietnam. When Grace and Anh, two women from vastly different worlds, find a runaway boy displaced by conflict, they forge a deep friendship that helps them heal their own painful pasts. Their lives intertwine with Jack, a mysterious Vietnam vet working at a watch repair shop, as Richman masterfully unravels their stories, illuminating the impact of war and the power of human connection.

Alyson Richman graduated from Wellesley College with a degree in art history and Japanese studies. She is an accomplished painter and her novels combine her deep love of art, history, and travel. Alyson’s novels have been published in 25 languages and have reached the bestseller lists domestically and abroad. She lives on Long Island with her husband and two children.

Co-Chairs: Vivian Lemelman and Joanne Baseman