A sparkling, enchanting and staggeringly original debut novel about one day in the lives of three unforgettable characters
"2 A.M. at The Cat's Pajamas" by Marie-Helene Bertino is a novel that weaves together the lives of several characters in Philadelphia over the course of a single day and night. The story primarily revolves around three characters: Madeleine Altimari, a nine-year-old aspiring jazz singer; Sarina Greene, her fifth-grade teacher; and Lorca, the owner of The Cat's Pajamas, a jazz club in danger of closing.
Madeleine, a precocious and determined girl, is dealing with the recent loss of her mother and an absentee father. She dreams of becoming a jazz singer and finds herself on an unexpected adventure in the city, searching for a place to sing. Sarina Greene, recently divorced and newly returned to her hometown, is trying to reconnect with an old flame while also navigating the complexities of her students' lives. Lorca, the club owner, is dealing with his own challenges, including financial troubles and a strained relationship with his son.
The novel is set in a whimsical, almost magical version of Philadelphia, where chance encounters and serendipitous moments shape the characters' paths. The story explores themes of loss, hope, and the pursuit of dreams, all against the backdrop of the city's vibrant jazz scene. The narrative style is lyrical and often playful, reflecting the musicality that permeates the characters' lives.
Published on by eBooks
Categories: Fiction