The Push Book Summary
A GMA Book Club Pick (A Novel)
TL;DR
The Push by Ashley Audrain is a tense psychological drama exploring the complexities and fears of motherhood through the story of Blythe Connor, who suspects something is wrong with her daughter Violet.
What is The Push about
The Push by Ashley Audrain delves into the uneasy and often unspoken aspects of motherhood. The novel follows Blythe Connor, who is determined to be a better mother to her daughter Violet than her own mother was to her. However, Blythe's dream of a perfect motherhood is shattered as she becomes increasingly convinced that something is wrong with Violet. Her husband, Fox, dismisses her fears, leading Blythe to question her own sanity. The birth of their son Sam brings a temporary sense of normalcy, but a tragic event forces Blythe to confront the truth. Set against the backdrop of family dynamics and psychological tension, The Push is a gripping exploration of maternal instinct, mental health, and the societal pressures on women.
The Push 5 Key Takeaways
Blythe's determination to be a good mother
Blythe Connor vows to be the nurturing mother to her daughter Violet that she never had. However, the early days of motherhood prove to be exhausting and far from her expectations.
Concerns about Violet's behavior
Blythe becomes increasingly worried that something is wrong with Violet, who does not behave like other children. Her husband, Fox, dismisses her concerns, leading Blythe to doubt her own perceptions.
Birth of Sam
The birth of their son Sam brings immense joy and the mother-child connection Blythe always desired. Even Violet appears to love her little brother, offering a temporary sense of family harmony.
Tragic event
A devastating incident abruptly changes the family's life, forcing Blythe to grapple with harsh truths about her children and herself.
Blythe's quest for truth
As the family's dynamics unravel, Blythe must confront her own mental health and the societal pressures placed on her as a mother, ultimately questioning what it means to be believed and understood.
Top The Push Quotes
- "Hooks you from the very first page and will have you racing to get to the end."
- "Utterly addictive."
Who should read The Push?
This book is ideal for fans of psychological dramas and those interested in exploring the complex emotions tied to motherhood. It offers a gripping narrative for readers who appreciate in-depth character studies and themes of mental health and societal expectations.
The Push Best Reviews
- "Utterly addictive." —Paula Hawkins, author of The Girl on the Train
- "Hooks you from the very first page and will have you racing to get to the end."—Good Morning America
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The Push FAQs
What is the book Push about summary?
Blythe Connor is determined to be the warm, comforting mother to her new baby Violet that she never had. However, she becomes convinced that something is wrong with Violet, leading to a tense psychological drama where she questions her own sanity and the nature of her daughter's behavior.
Is The Push by Ashley Audrain based on a true story?
No, The Push is not based on a true story. Ashley Audrain started writing it when her son was about six months old, but the characters and events are fictional.
What are the trigger warnings for The Push?
Trigger warnings for The Push include child abuse, self-harm (suicide), and mental health issues, including postnatal depression. The story is intense and may not be suitable for all readers.