roost

by Ali Bryan

Roost is a disarmingly honest, witty exploration of the chaos, humour, and heartbreak that define modern family life. Told through the sharp and self-deprecating voice of Claudia, a single mother juggling the demands of her two young children, the novel offers a poignant yet laugh-out-loud glimpse into the messy realities of parenthood, grief, and self-discovery. As Claudia navigates the aftermath of her mother’s sudden death her days are filled with temper tantrums, sleepless nights, and the constant balancing act of work and family. Bryan’s writing shines, capturing the absurdity and tenderness of parenthood with an exacting eye for detail. Claudia’s inner monologue is biting and relatable, often veering into hilarity as she reflects on everything from the craziness of parenting advice to the quirks of her own family. And the moments of vulnerability—when she allows herself to confront her pain—are some of the most moving in the book. Finishing it is like saying goodbye to an old friend.