Across the Kitchen Table by Carla Seaquist: A Moving Reflection on Family Estrangement
Nearly one in three American adults is estranged from a family member—a sobering reality that speaks to a quiet but widespread emotional divide. In Across the Kitchen Table, author Carla Seaquist brings this hidden struggle to light through a deeply intimate and resonant account. Her book offers a heartfelt and unflinching exploration of familial conflict, grief, and the difficult path toward reconciliation, framed by a mother-daughter relationship fractured by tragedy.
More than a simple memoir, Across the Kitchen Table is a profound examination of the fragile nature of family ties and the psychological weight that estrangement carries. Drawing from her personal experience, Seaquist recounts the devastating loss of her daughter and the subsequent collapse of familial connections. With striking emotional honesty and grace, she invites readers into a world shaped by sorrow, introspection, and, ultimately, the hope of healing.
Seaquist’s narrative stands out for its courage and emotional transparency. Her willingness to confront painful memories and reveal raw vulnerability encourages readers to contemplate their own familial relationships. She skillfully illuminates how silence, unresolved grief, and misunderstanding can lead to deep rifts, while also showing that reconciliation—however uncertain—remains possible through compassion and honest dialogue.
A celebrated playwright, essayist, and author, Carla Seaquist has long been recognized for her nuanced takes on social, cultural, and political issues. Her plays, including Who Cares? and Looking for Atticus, have won acclaim for their depth and insight. Her essays, featured in prominent publications, reflect a thoughtful voice that grapples with both public and private spheres. Her literary strength lies in her ability to unpack complex emotions with clarity and empathy—qualities that define Across the Kitchen Table.
In this book, Seaquist turns her discerning eye toward one of society’s least discussed emotional experiences. She gives voice to the many who endure familial separation in silence, offering not only validation but a path forward. The book is both a personal reckoning and a broader call to action: to face pain, foster open communication, and extend grace to those we love—even when it’s difficult.
Across the Kitchen Table will resonate with readers who have experienced estrangement, but its relevance extends far beyond that audience. It speaks to anyone who values the bonds of family and the need for emotional connection. With insight and sincerity, Carla Seaquist encourages us to examine the ties that bind—and to mend them when they fray.
Watch the book trailer: https://youtu.be/lmyVYfJKPsw
