The School for Good Mothers

The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan is a 2022 debut novel that explores a chilling and thought-provoking dystopian world. Here's a breakdown:

The Story:

• Frida Liu, a single mother struggling with exhaustion and a recent separation, makes a single mistake - leaving her young daughter alone briefly.
• This lapse in judgment lands her in a government program called "The School for Good Mothers."
• This institution, under the guise of rehabilitation, enforces strict rules and utilizes surveillance to assess mothers' competence.
• Frida must prove herself worthy of regaining custody of her daughter by excelling in a series of tests and caring for robotic child simulations.

Themes:

• The novel tackles critical issues like societal pressures on mothers, the far reach of government control, and the definition of "good mother."
• It explores the anxieties and challenges of motherhood in a way that resonates with many readers.

Why You Should Read It:

• Gripping and suspenseful: The story is fast-paced and keeps you guessing about Frida's fate and the true purpose of the School.
• Thought-provoking: It raises important questions about parenting, social norms, and the role of the state in our lives.
• Emotional and moving: The story explores the powerful bond between mother and child, while also highlighting the vulnerability of mothers in society.
• Well-developed characters: You'll find yourself invested in Frida's journey and the other mothers she encounters at the School.
• A commentary on modern society: The novel cleverly reflects some anxieties about surveillance and government overreach in a way that feels relevant to our times.