September Book Pick: The Names by Florence Knapp

Synopsis: In the wake of a catastrophic storm, Cora sets off with her 9-year-old daughter, Maia, to register her son’s birth. Her husband, Gordon, respected in the community but a terrifying and controlling presence at home, intends for her to name the infant after him. But when the registrar asks what she’d like to call the child, Cora hesitates… Spanning thirty-five years, what follows are three alternate versions of Cora’s and her young son’s lives, shaped by her choice of name. The Names explores the painful ripple effects of domestic abuse, the messy ties of family, and the possibilities of autonomy and healing. Physical copies and CD audio are available at the library. E-books and e-audios are available on Libby.