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Average rating: 5/5

Based on 2 ratings

Adieu, Betty Crocker

by Francois Gravel
Translated by: Sheila Fischman

Cormorant Books | August 4, 2005 | Trade Paperback

Adieu, Betty Crocker continues the very well received Fillion Family Saga, which began with A Good Life and was followed by The Extraordinary Garden. In this, the third volume, Benoît investigates the life of his mother''s sister, Arlette, who was a domestic presence in the extended family, but who remained a mystery to her nephew.

Arlette''s story appears simple at the first: she was a traditional stay-at-home mother in the 1960s and 1970s, with a home in the suburbs of Montreal, two children, and a husband who drove buses. She was always prepared for visitors, with Rice Krispies Squares or cookies on her ultra-spotless table.

When her husband died in a freak accident, she was left financially well off; she should have been comfortable. But something was wrong - something on which Benoît is not able to put his finger.

Through beautiful prose and a glorious translation, the reader discovers the story of Arlette in the voices of her nephew, her son, her daughter, and, finally, herself. A tragedy, the story of Arlette is also a story of grace, courage under pressure.

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  • Anonymous's Review
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What an awesome book! The writing is rich, symbolic and intelligent. Not only is this book a quick read, but it is also enjoyable on a deeper level than the superficial. I laughed and cried and reminisced. It is very representative of Montreal and Quebec cultures.
Francois Gravel's representation of domestic life is a breath of fresh air. Gravel depicts a stereotypically submissive female role (housewife) and transforms it into a rich text full of symbolism and meaning. By the end Ma Tante Arlette transcends the role of domestic to become an empowered domestic goddess.
A worthwhile summer, fall, winter or spring read!

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