This is Where I Leave You by Jonathan Tropper (2009)
Overview
This is Where I Leave You is a 2009 novel by Jonathan Tropper. Following his father’s death, Judd Foxman is forced to stay with his dysfunctional family for seven days of observance. While he is there, he must grapple with his family’s secrets, his own feelings of loss, and his complicated relationships. This is Where I Leave You is a humorous yet touching story of a family trying to come to terms with their past and present.
Plot Summary
Judd Foxman’s life is thrown into chaos when he learns his father has died. His mother, Hilary, informs him that his father’s last wish was for his children to observe the traditional Jewish mourning period of shiva, which requires them to stay together in their childhood home for seven days. Reluctantly, Judd returns home, where he must confront his estranged siblings, Wendy, Paul, and Phillip, as well as his mother.
While spending time together, Judd and his siblings unearth secrets from their past. Judd learns that his father had a secret relationship with a woman named Tracy and his mother had an affair with her psychiatrist. Through these discoveries, Judd is able to come to terms with his own feelings of loss and regret.
In the end, Judd and his family are able to reconcile their differences, and Judd finds peace in the knowledge that his father’s last wish was fulfilled.
Themes
This is Where I Leave You explores several themes, including family, loss, and regret. The novel highlights the importance of family and the strength that comes from having a strong support system. It also shows the power of love and understanding in the face of grief and loss. Additionally, the novel examines the consequences of regret and the importance of accepting the past.
Interesting Facts
- The novel was adapted into a 2014 film. This is Where I Leave You was adapted into a 2014 film, starring Jason Bateman, Tina Fey, and Adam Driver.
- The novel was inspired by Tropper’s own life. Tropper drew from his own life experiences when writing the novel, including his father’s death.
- The novel is set in Westchester, New York. The novel is set in Tropper’s hometown of Westchester, New York.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who wrote This is Where I Leave You?
A: This is Where I Leave You was written by Jonathan Tropper.
Q: What is the plot of This is Where I Leave You?
A: The plot of This is Where I Leave You follows Judd Foxman, whose life is thrown into chaos when his father dies and he is forced to stay with his dysfunctional family for seven days of observance. Through his time spent with his family, he uncovers secrets from their past and is able to come to terms with his own feelings of loss and regret.
Q: What themes are explored in This is Where I Leave You?
A: This is Where I Leave You explores several themes, including family, loss, and regret. The novel highlights the importance of family and the strength that comes from having a strong support system. It also shows the power of love and understanding in the face of grief and loss. Additionally, the novel examines the consequences of regret and the importance of accepting the past.
Q: Was This is Where I Leave You adapted into a film?
A: Yes, This is Where I Leave You was adapted into a 2014 film, starring Jason Bateman, Tina Fey, and Adam Driver.