Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

The Breaks by Ellen Barker is an interesting look at the tedium of life and routine and how that can be interrupted and impacted in a most unexpected, ultimately rewarding manner. Marianne, after a successful career in corporate data management, followed by an unexpected layoff, has returned to her hometown of Kansas City, Missouri, and purchased the rather dilapidated property that she grew up in. But the neighborhood she grew up in has changed dramatically from her childhood. The area East of Troost is no longer the province of the white working class; it is now predominately black and crime and gang-ridden. Still, she is determined to make her change work, and having secured employment in the local school board office, she is determined to use her data management skills to improve the lot for children of Kansas City and especially the area East of Troost. Apart from her work, her house, and her best friend and neighbor, Marianne’s life is simple. That is until Sister Collette buys the house directly behind her property as a place where women ex-prisoners can learn to “just live.” Stephanie, a young black woman just out of prison, will be instrumental in teaching Marianne a thing or two about how to “just live.”

The Breaks is a gentle read that appeals as much for its warmth and charm as it does for its ability to tackle issues such as institutional racism and the marginalization of black communities. Ellen Barker has created several fascinating and interestingly nuanced characters. Marianne is a typical white fifty-something woman whose sole ambition is to just get on with her life, religiously protecting and guarding her privacy and her personal space. Stephanie is introverted, withdrawn, and to a large extent institutionalized. If she is going to adapt to the real world, she will need all the mentoring, tutoring, and guidance Marianne can give her. The author has done a superb job of creating the interplay between Marianne and Stephanie and their burgeoning relationship, especially when Stephanie becomes the teacher and Marianne the pupil. I particularly appreciated the role of Sister Collette in fostering this unusual friendship that develops between the two women. It was her perception and insight that saw in Marianne a good heart that just needed a nudge in the right direction. The character development is superb and the author takes the time to flesh out the characters of even the more minor players. The overarching theme is never to settle, always look for new challenges, and have the courage to accept people at face value and not prejudge them. This relatable tale made me examine many of my practices and habits; an excellent and enjoyable read I highly recommend.