Wreck: A Personal Journey Through Chaos and Caregiving
When a book captures the essence of our own lives so vividly, it’s hard not to get a little excited about it. That’s exactly how I felt when I received two copies of Wreck by Chloe Benjamin, selected as Good Morning America’s Book Club pick for November 2025! Winning these copies was a delightful surprise, especially since I had already enjoyed her debut novel for adults, We All Want Impossible Things. I was looking forward to diving back into her world. But I also realized I needed to grab a copy of the first book in this series, Sandwich, to fully savor the journey ahead. If you’re curious, you can find my reviews for both We All Want Impossible Things and Sandwich linked below.
Like many readers, I often find parallels between fiction and my own life, and Wreck delivered an unexpected dose of déjà vu. The protagonist, Rocky, is navigating a bewildering array of health issues—blood tests, scans, and, ultimately, a mounting anxiety that struck very close to home. I experienced something similar last year when my own health issues led me down a winding path of medical inquiries. As I read about Rocky’s quest for answers, I couldn’t help but feel uneasy about my own “special” trip to the County Tumor Board. While I appreciated the camaraderie of Rocky’s chaotic health journey, it felt more real than I was prepared for.
This dual experience—Rocky’s health struggles and the wreck of a train crash that opens the story—establishes the book’s themes of chaotic family dynamics and the intricate web of caregiving. As a quick read at just 210 pages, Benjamin’s writing captures the emotional upheaval of a family in crisis, delivering a raw honesty that will resonate with those juggling multiple caregiving responsibilities. I couldn’t help but chuckle and cringe at the dialogue filled with humor, or annoyance, depending on one’s perspective.
Benjamin has a knack for developing vibrant characters, and Rocky, along with her well-meaning but chaotic family, shines as both relatable and deeply flawed. As she attempts to manage her father’s transition into her home while also caring for her adult children and husband, readers are treated to an authentic, albeit complicated, portrayal of family life. The mix of anxiety and responsibility felt palpable, especially for those of us who’ve ever had to play the role of caregiver.
One standout quote from the book that truly resonated was Benjamin’s reflection on Rocky’s dual compulsion to care for others while feeling torn about her own desires. It’s a balancing act many of us can relate to, whether we’re caring for aging parents or our own children. This exploration of personal identity versus family obligations added layers to the narrative that I found compelling.
With all that said, I would rate Wreck at a solid 3.5 stars. It’s a book that blends humor with heartbreak, and offers insights into the messy reality of caregiving.
This novel is perfect for readers who appreciate heartfelt stories that explore familial love laced with chaos. If you find joy in books that reflect real-life struggles and triumphs, you might just find yourself entrenched in Rocky’s journey.
In a world full of complexities, Wreck serves as a reminder that while we might feel like wrecks at times, our stories are what connect us. Happy reading, everyone!
If you’d like to read more about my thoughts on the books mentioned, you can find my reviews here: