Keeping Lucy was undoubtedly an eye-opening novel and T. Greenwood provided insight into the time prior to the paradigm shift in the treatment of individuals with disabilities. I certainly enjoyed her skillful storytelling that allows the reader to appreciate what a long way we've come from our ignorant views about basic human rights. Her novel prompted me to further research this heinous history, and I was interested to find that the occurrences at the Belchertown State School for the Feeble-minded circa 1971 very closely paralleled those of her novel. I had heard of institutions such as these, but had no idea that children with Down's Syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities were ever relegated to such places, nor was I aware of the abhorrent conditions and inhumane treatment of patients. In writing this novel, Greenwood highlighted the importance of investigative journalism in our history, and how it has lead to major reform in both the public and private sector.
I also appreciated her nod to women's liberation, which was still in its infancy in this not-so-distant past. I'll admit that Ginny & Marsha's relationship made my heart swell. I would've preferred knowing what exactly happened to Marsha in the small town where their car broke down... that drama seemed a bit out of left field. Additionally, some of the writing seemed rudimentary: "Her mind spun like the lazy Susan she kept on the dining table at home." But generally speaking, this was a very valuable read, and one that I genuinely enjoyed.
Many thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin's Press for gifting me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Read 1/17/19
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