“Rise and Shine” by Anna Quindlen is a good read, though a bit of a chick book (no surprise to Quindlen fans). Her strength is in writing about real people and “Rise and Shine” is no exception.The story is centered around sisters who were orphaned at a very young age and have grown up as polar opposites. Meghan is, essentially, Katie Couric, in other words a famous morning show host with the perfect husband and perfect son. Bridget, the younger sister, has spent years drifting aimlessly from job to job, unable to commit to a career or find a man who appreciates her.

While a bit formulaic, the book introduces a series of complications into their lives that pulls them farther apart than ever before. How they cope, or fail to cope, is predictable but in a good way. Sometimes, I don’t mind predictability if it’s a good story and turns out just the way you hope it will. “Rise and Shine” is that kind of story. It seems to be about sisters and about love lost and found, but really it’s about making peace with who you are.

Guys – this book is probably NOT for you.

Ladies – if you like this book, you’d love an even better novel about discovering your true self, “The Elegant Gathering of White Snows” by Kris Radish (read my review of it here).