Book Review: Getting to Happy
I’m late with this one, mainly because I didn’t want to write it. Terry McMillan’s Waiting to Exhale was beautiful; the characters were gorgeously written and each strong in their own right. So when word came that there was a sequel, so to speak, I was ecstatic. I was yearning to learn what happened to Robin, Savannah, Gloria, and Bernadine…so I anxiously awaited their return to my life.
In simple terms, I was disappointed. The story seemed rushed and contrived, and there ran an undercurrent of anger in the story. When I read, I don’t want to read anger, unless I purposely do so. The ladies in Getting to Happy again face major life disappointments (some seem so…I don’t know…out of character?), and once again rally together and find solace among in their friendship.
I know life happens; believe me, I’m beginning to know that more and more everyday. But even realistically, it seemed like Ms. McMillan woke up on morning and decided, “Let’s make Savannah’s husband a porn addict who isn’t worth shit! And while we are at it, let’s also make Bernadine’s daughter gay!” There was just too much pushed into this 400 page book, and by the time I reached midpoint, I was weary. The story no longer held my interest, and I no longer cared what happened to these women. That was a disappointment.
I am a huge fan of Terry McMillan. That’s why this was so hard to say, so hard to write. But this book missed me. I think it forgot to involve me in the story. In Waiting to Exhale, I felt Robin’s sigh when she decided to tell Russell to kick rocks; I cried with Bernadine when her husband chose the other woman; and I cheered for Gloria when she and Marvin hooked up. Getting to Happy holds no connection for me.
I will still read and buy Ms. McMillan’s books. The main reason is because Disappearing Acts is one of my favorite books, and I am waiting on her to recreate the magic that book had. Ms. McMillan has a distinct voice; it is the thing that set her apart from the rest. I just wish her to find that voice again and yell loudly from the rooftops that she won’t conform.
This book wasn’t about Getting to Happy; it was more like Getting to Bitter, Weary, and Disappointment.
My rating: 3/5 out of 5.
