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Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
How far would you go to help your child? In Gino’s Mom, Gary Markman tells the story of Rachel Carver, a woman devoted to her son, Gino. She's married to Anthony, a teacher and musician with a temper that sometimes causes problems for them. When Gino experiences a serious medical problem as an infant, their lives are forever changed. From that moment on, Rachel must juggle caring for her son, a challenging marriage, and a demanding job. As the years pass, mother and son experience life's ups and downs, and meet people who change them in unexpected ways. Rachel meets Jesse, a man who enters the scene at a time when she least expects it. She also must make difficult decisions that test her priorities and convictions. Can this determined woman balance her own dreams with Gino's needs? And what lies ahead for them both?
As I read Gino's Mom by Gary Markman, I kept thinking Rachel’s anthem should be Kelly Clarkson's song "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)." Even though she faces one challenge after another, she continues to move forward for the sake of her child. It's an easy but emotional read that kept me engaged from start to finish. The immersive writing had me admiring Rachel for her determination, strength, and devotion to her son, while also frustrating me with how much she endured from Anthony. I enjoyed getting to know Gino at every stage of his life. Jesse is another great character who comes around at just the right time. In many ways, I felt Rachel deserved someone like him after so many hardships. I found this complicated but rewarding story well worth the journey. Readers who like family sagas, women's fiction, and stories about families navigating disability will want to pick this one up.
