Lauren Grodstein Books in Order

Waiting outside the bathroom while his girlfriend takes a pregnancy test, Joel Miller reconsiders his romantic history. Memories of his parents, friends, and former lover force him to confront intimacy, commitment, and the possibility of fatherhood.

Successful doctor Pete has invested his hopes in his teenage son’s future. When Alec becomes involved with the troubled daughter of Pete’s closest friend, the father’s attempt to stop the relationship threatens everything he meant to protect.

Widowed biology professor Andy has rebuilt a quiet routine around research and raising his daughters. Agreeing to supervise a devout student’s investigation of intelligent design unsettles that fragile stability and challenges his understanding of faith and doubt.

Terminally ill single mother Karen wants to prepare her young son for life without her. When he asks to meet the father who never knew him, she must confront jealousy and fear while deciding what her child will need.

Imprisoned in the Warsaw Ghetto, teacher Adam joins a secret effort to preserve residents’ testimonies. Love for a married neighbor sustains him, but a possible escape forces an agonizing decision about whom he can save.

Dissatisfied with her marriage and unsure of her own purpose, Amy travels to Georgia to search for a missing dog. Encounters in Tbilisi draw her toward friendships, difficult questions, and desires she has long ignored.

Ten stories follow young people struggling with desire, insecurity and the approach of adulthood. An awkward attempt at consolation, a family trapped on a stalled monorail and an uncomfortable night out reveal the tensions beneath ordinary encounters.