Life rarely ever travels in a straight line; in fact, it usually diverts off the beaten path at the most unexpected times. In Jeanne Kenny-Freeman’s The Mother, the protagonist, Rachelin is a perfect example of life’s unplanned detours. At the age of two, she sang, “Vesper Bells” at the annual Christmas pageant, convincing her entire “Ode to the River” community that she would someday become a famous musician.
Narrated by Josie, Rachelin’s younger sister, the story weaves in many thematic elements: love, marriage, motherhood, commitment, death, nature, and more. The plot centers on Rachelin and her son, who is born out of wedlock. Despite having several opportunities to release herself from Poor Boy’s burden, she is committed to raising him, resulting in conflict and ultimately separation from fiancée Joon van Breden.
Essentially, The Mother is presented in parts. The first part of the story is centered entirely on Rachelin and her perceived successful singing career. The second part of the story focuses on her coming of age, using her music to stir anti-Vietnam War sentiments at UC Berkeley, getting engaged to Joon van Breden, separation, and ultimately giving birth to Poor Boy, as he was known. Poor Boy, or Love as Rachelin sometimes called him, suffers from gigantism and Down Syndrome, a combination that gives him immense strength, but not the reasoning or aptitude to control his strength.
Poor Boy is strongly reminiscent of Lenny, from John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. For example, Poor Boy ignorantly sucks the life right out of a kitten, prompting Rachelin to fear “that Poor Boy’s strength in years ahead, combined with ignorance could be a threat to human life.”
The next phase of the story reveals maturation within Rachelin, transforming her from a self-centered college girl to a nurturing mother who, for the sake of her child, lives the life of a recluse. In essence, she surrenders herself to another mother, Mother Nature, and tries to form a “oneness” with her creations. Though the men in Rachelin’s life have done nothing but disappoint her, she allows herself to unexpectedly fall in love with Greet Weatherhead.
One scene that particularly resonates is when Poor Boy accidentally falls into an unmarked mine shaft. Josie narrates, “And it was then someone came to her rescue. She saw no physical being, but she felt a presence as real as a breathing mate. A great and easy strength pulled the rope, so that it moved slackly through her hands, and her son was moved up.” This scene depicts the apex of Rachelin’s moral fortitude and her belief that a spirit is helping her to take care of her son.
Overall, The Mother portrays moral growth in Rachelin, the strength of a mother, and Mother Nature’s power to tend for her children. While the notions of healing and morality are an integral part of this book, these and other relevant themes are not presented in a dogmatic, preachy manner. On the contrary, the story is character-driven and Rachelin’s experiences are more than adequate to convey the sentiments of healing, strength, and morality.
From hopeless romantics and nature lovers to families of special needs children, this is a must read book that has future, big-screen potential. A true page-turner, this story completely engages its readers to the last page. Will Rachelin’s resolve provide a secure future for Poor Boy? Will Greet accept Poor Boy? Be sure to read The Mother to find out.
