Who knows you better than your best friend? Who knows your secrets, your fears, your desires, your strange imperfect self? Edi and Ash have been best friends for over forty years. Since childhood they have seen each other through life’s milestones: stealing vodka from their parents, the Madonna phase, REM concerts, unexpected wakes, marriages, infertility, children. As Ash notes, ‘Edi’s memory is like the back-up hard drive for mine.’
So when Edi is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Ash’s world reshapes around the rhythms of Edi’s care, from chipped ice and watermelon cubes to music therapy; from snack smuggling to impromptu excursions into the frozen winter night. Because life is about squeezing the joy out of every moment, about building a powerhouse of memories, about learning when to hold on, and when to let go.
**A Heartrending and Hilarious Ode to Friendship: Discover *We All Want Impossible Things* by Catherine Newman** Prepare to laugh, cry, and cherish the bonds of friendship like never before with Catherine Newman's *We All Want Impossible Things*. This poignant and darkly funny novel delves into the extraordinary connection between two lifelong friends, Edi and Ash, as they navigate the complexities of life, love, loss, and the enduring power of female camaraderie. From their mischievous childhood escapades think stolen vodka and Madonna impersonations to navigating the challenges of adulthood marriages, infertility, raising children, and unexpected losses Edi and Ash have been each other's constant companions. Ash eloquently describes their bond: "Edi's memory is like the back-up hard drive for mine." They are two halves of a whole, their lives inextricably intertwined. When Edi receives a devastating diagnosis of terminal cancer, their world shifts dramatically. Ash steps up to become Edi's caregiver, immersing herself in the minutiae of Edi's comfort and care. The novel beautifully portrays the intimate and often messy realities of caregiving, from the simple acts of providing chipped ice and watermelon cubes to arranging music therapy sessions. It celebrates the importance of finding joy in the face of adversity, whether it's smuggling forbidden snacks or embarking on spontaneous adventures into the winter night. *We All Want Impossible Things* is more than just a story about illness; it's a celebration of life, memory, and the profound impact of friendship. Newman masterfully blends humor and heartbreak, creating a narrative that is both deeply moving and surprisingly funny. The novel explores themes of mortality, acceptance, and the enduring power of love in the face of loss. Catherine Newman, known for her honest and witty writing style in publications like *The New York Times*, *McSweeney's*, and *Cup of Jo*, brings her signature voice to this unforgettable novel. Her insightful observations and relatable characters resonate deeply, making *We All Want Impossible Things* a truly special and unforgettable reading experience. Readers will find themselves reflecting on their own cherished friendships and the importance of savoring every moment. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy novels about female friendship, family sagas, and stories that explore the complexities of life with both humor and heart. It's a must-read for anyone who has ever experienced the joy and pain of loving and losing a friend. Published in 2023 by Penguin, this paperback edition is perfect for curling up with and savoring every page. Don't miss out on this extraordinary novel that is sure to stay with you long after you finish reading. Order your copy of *We All Want Impossible Things* today and experience the power of friendship, the beauty of life, and the importance of letting go.