Karen's Reviews > Clock Dance

Is it possible to become oneself at age 61? When we consider a coming-of-age novel we typically think of teenagers coming into themselves and finding their way. But this one looks at a grown woman, Willa, who has led a life in which it has passed her by in such a way – predictable in many ways, that when an opportunity comes by, she has a chance to grab a hold of her life and begin again. At age 61. Perhaps then she can learn to live.

Will readers connect or relate to Willa?

Can Willa be the “grandmother” to Cheryl, walk the dog and find herself?

While watching Willa grow into herself, readers also learn about her past, to understand why this moment of growth could be important to her.

Clock Dance is told in three stories followed by a short novel – in other words – glimpses into four periods of Willa’s life. Seemingly trauma-filled. So, when Willa has this opportunity to change/grow…

Will it be enough to bring her the freedom she needs? Will she be able to transform her life?

And, what is a clock dance? How does it relate to the title of the book? Cheryl and friends perform what they call a “clock dance.” Willa imagines her own ‘clock dance’ would be a race against time. Is this ‘grandmother’ experience to Cheryl her own race against time?

In many ways it was a well-written story, but at times difficult to read because of Willa’s timidity and weakness to the men in her life.

Still, by the time Willa has her breakthroughs, will it be enough to give readers satisfaction in the end?