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Reviewed by Robert A. Groves for Readers' Favorite
Twice the Family traces Julie Ryan McGue’s life as an adoptee and identical twin. The girls grew up in a large Catholic family in the Chicago suburbs. The memoir follows Julie and her twin sister Jenny from infancy through adulthood. The backdrop of their childhood is set against a series of family tragedies. There are miscarriages, the death of a newborn brother, and the sudden loss of a toddler sister. All these life events formed the emotional landscape of their home. As the family expands, Julie must work through many issues: twin identity, adoption, and faith. She writes about belonging and finding her place within a family structure that contains lingering grief. Structured in three parts, Identity, Belonging, and Becoming, the book chronicles her evolving sense of self. As she moves from childhood into motherhood, readers learn about early bonds, unanswered questions, and family expectations. All these factors influence the woman she ultimately becomes.
I was surprised by the feelings Julie Ryan McGue’s Twice the Family caused within me. I had to pause the narration more than once, either to catch my breath or to think about what she had just shared. The mix of grief, strength, and quiet humor drew me in and kept me there. As someone with siblings, I especially connected with the twins’ changing relationship. The book reminded me that family stories, with all their messiness, play a big part in determining who we become. I recommend this audiobook to listeners who appreciate memoirs that are filled with honesty and grace. I found myself carrying it with me to listen to as opportunities presented themselves throughout the day. I think you will, too.
Katie Hagaman’s narration makes the experience even better. She is a multi-award-winning voice actress. Her professional expertise is quite evident in this presentation. Her voice is warm and steady, and she brings gentleness to the harder parts of the story. She reads in a way that feels almost like someone is telling you the story across the table. I felt she captured and conveyed the emotion of McGue’s words across the sound waves without fail. Her care with the material helps carry you through both the painful moments and the lighter ones.
