Jun 4, 2012 — Becoming a grandparent for the first time requires some adjustment. For Lamott that included coming to grips with the fact that her 19-year-old son, Sam, was going to be a father. Sam, who is featured lovingly in Lamott’s 1993 book, Operating Instructions, participated in the writing. In Some Assembly Required, the Lamotts muse on the difference between parenting and grandparenting. “With your own child you are fixated on . . . keeping the child safe and alive. With a grandchild the focus is softer beyond the anxious foreground.” As usual, Lamott’s irreverent tone is gentled as she speaks about “allowing Grace in” on this uncharted road. (Riverhead)
About the Author
Jenny deGroot is a retired educator, farm-living art lover, and longtime contributor to The Banner's news and Mixed Media sections. She lives near Fort Langley, B.C., and attends Willoughby Christian Reformed Church in Langley, B.C.
