The River is Waiting by Wally Lamb is a highly emotional read (spoilers ahead).

Corby is sentenced to three years in jail after backing over his two-year-old son while under the influence. The pain and horror of this moment kept me awake after reading it.

What follows is the aftermath of this tragedy. Corby’s relationship with his wife Emily is severely damaged. Once in jail, he has no contact with his remaining daughter (his deceased son’s twin sister).

Corby’s 1095 days in jail are marked by gradual friendships (bunkmate, prison librarian) and severe bullying (first bunkmate and two guards). During this time he must come to terms with his actions, his own upbringing, and figure out how to move forward.

This book was both riveting and heart wrenching. The characters (especially Corby) are so well developed. I found myself rooting for him despite his horrible mistake. Much of the advice given to him by either his first therapist and AA members is profound and pertinent to anyone going through a struggle. I really enjoyed this book’s realism albeit that it didn’t have the happy ending I hoped for.