When I first heard that well-known children’s author wrote a novel for adults I was curious to say the least. A fan of her children’s work and starting with children’s literature but moving to adult myself I knew I needed to read Kiss the Joy as it Flies
So I did but not after I heard a lot of controversy over the main character Mercy Beth Fanjoy. It seems Fitch’s readers either hated this character or loved her – I adored her and her seemingly infinite wisdom about all that is life. The controversy, the discussions at a workshop Sheree Fitch hosted and the overall perception of this book only made it more enticing.
Kiss the Joy As It Flies follows Mercy as she is diagnosed with a possible cancer. This tale offers the reader humour in time of devastation while Mercy tries to complete a list she created which included being given her father’s suicide note her mother has but won’t admit to. Also on the list: complete and publish her first book ( no easy task for anyone), have relations with “the Animal man”, belly dance and so many more. Although I won’t spoil any of what does or doesn’t happen this book is a must read for anyone who understands that life is worth living and for anyone who will ultimately die.
My only question after finishing this book is why anyone would wait to create their list, which is sometimes referred to as a bucket list, until they are told they may die soon. We all my die soon, that’s the tragedy of death – we never know when it’ll greet us, so get out and do what you love because no matter when you die life is too short.
Read Kiss the Joy as it Flies
I promise you’ll laugh, and cry, and either hate or love Mercy Beth Fanjoy but no matter what you’ll enjoy this book and it will help you complete your life before it’s too late.
Thanks for reading,
Sarah Butland
Sarah, it sounds like a good read. I will have to pick up a copy to read on the beach this summer. I am always on the lookout for great books. Thanks
Wow! This sounds amazing. Is it the joy that Mercy has even in the face of death that makes the character so controversial? Why do you think people hate the character? Really curios and I will have to read. <3
I loved this book…. I’m waiting for the movie and casting Julia Roberts as Mercy Beth…….. and I wouldn’t say that Mercy has joy in the face of death, it evokes a lots of different emotions… it made me laugh, stop and think, maybe even a tear, I might even go pull it out and read it again
Sounds like the kind of book I’d have a hard time getting through. Death is a tender subject. Regardless, I’m with you on the bucket list. Life is a bucket list, or it should be. The only reality is the one we make for ourselves.
[…] While attending a book signing of hers last year through the Writer in Residence Program of the Pictou Antigonish Regional Library, I loved the reception of kids and adults alike to her arrival. Each child, and their parent, had their favourite Sheree book and could chose from dozens of them. For the long time fans she has an adult book as well titled Kiss the Joy As It Flies (reviewed by myself). […]