Family estrangement is far more common than many realize—nearly 30% of American adults are disconnected from at least one close relative. This quietly endured yet widespread issue is at the heart of Carla Seaquist’s evocative book, Across The Kitchen Table. In this moving and introspective work, Seaquist explores the fragile terrain of familial conflict, loss, and the long road to reconciliation, centering her narrative on a deeply strained mother-daughter relationship shaped by grief and miscommunication.
More than a memoir, Across The Kitchen Table serves as an intimate reflection on the intricacies of family bonds and the emotional weight carried by those who experience estrangement. Seaquist writes from personal experience, sharing the harrowing story of her daughter’s tragic death and the subsequent disintegration of her family relationships. Her storytelling is searingly honest and emotionally raw, drawing readers into a journey marked by sorrow, introspection, and, ultimately, the pursuit of healing.
Seaquist’s prose is unflinching yet compassionate. She brings a rare vulnerability to the page, prompting readers to consider their own familial relationships—the fractures, the silences, and the possibilities for reconciliation. Her willingness to confront painful truths allows the book to function not only as a memoir, but as a mirror, offering insight and solace to those grappling with their own family disconnects.
Renowned as a playwright, essayist, and author, Carla Seaquist has long been recognized for her thoughtful treatment of social and cultural themes. Her acclaimed plays—such as Who Cares? and Looking for Atticus—along with her essays on politics, personal growth, and morality, have cemented her reputation as a writer of uncommon depth and clarity. In Across The Kitchen Table, she brings that same perceptiveness to bear on one of the most personal subjects of all: the family.
What makes this book especially compelling is its courage in addressing what many avoid—emotional distance among those who should be closest. Seaquist opens a much-needed dialogue about the private anguish of estrangement, but she does not dwell in despair. Instead, she offers a sense of hope. Through empathy and communication, she suggests, healing is possible—even when the wounds run deep.
Across The Kitchen Table speaks not only to those who have been estranged, but to anyone who has struggled to maintain or mend familial connections. It is a call to action: to face uncomfortable realities, to extend grace, and to find a way back to one another. Seaquist’s writing urges readers to reflect, reach out, and rediscover the enduring value of family ties.
In the end, this is a book about what it means to be human—to grieve, to forgive, and to grow. For those yearning to understand or restore broken relationships, Across The Kitchen Table offers wisdom, comfort, and a compelling reminder of the power of love and communication to bridge even the deepest divides.
Watch the book trailer: https://youtu.be/lmyVYfJKPsw