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Greater Than the Still
Juliette Laredo never meant to leave an impression on anyone, but in a city of constantly intertwining lives, her impact is greater than she knows. On the brink of deciding to return to a stable career as a mental health counselor or follow her passion as a pastry chef, Juliette’s worries surface when she is faced with a life changing opportunity.
More than a dozen unique New Yorkers narrate their own perceptions and feelings of Juliette, as her story is told through their eyes. Greater Than the Still portrays the love, fears, and heartbreaks of New Yorkers as strangers and familiar faces peel back layers of Juliette’s life. It is through their crossed paths that change the course of Juliette’s future.
More than a dozen unique New Yorkers narrate their own perceptions and feelings of Juliette, as her story is told through their eyes. Greater Than the Still portrays the love, fears, and heartbreaks of New Yorkers as strangers and familiar faces peel back layers of Juliette’s life. It is through their crossed paths that change the course of Juliette’s future.
- GenresContemporary
226 pages, Paperback
First published May 6, 2014
1 person is currently reading
628 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Dayan
1 book11 followersSarah is the author of "Greater than the Still" and the traveler behind Sarah and a Suitcase. She has three upcoming books on the way, including a literary fiction novel entitled "The Lies on Their Lips", a poetry collection entitled "Of Hearts and Homes", and a collection of children's lullabies entitled "From Here to You".
Aside from writing her next novel, she spends her time laughing and cuddling with her one year old son and thinking about her next vacation. She is the proud spouse of a United States Marine and has a love for all things dessert. You can keep up with her on her blog at Sarah and a Suitcase.
Aside from writing her next novel, she spends her time laughing and cuddling with her one year old son and thinking about her next vacation. She is the proud spouse of a United States Marine and has a love for all things dessert. You can keep up with her on her blog at Sarah and a Suitcase.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
February 16, 2022
I loved the idea of this book. The myriad lives of the people who live, and lived in the big city, all somehow interlinked, albeit some of them briefly with the main character, Juliette. Some of the tales in Greater Than the Still are uplifting, some heartbreaking, some unexpected, unresolved or utterly delightful. These short insights into various lives were well-rounded, and though some were left wanting, they were enjoyable accounts of the yearning for family reunion or world-wide travel, experience of loss and bereavement, affairs, abuse and love. I think the problem for me is that the main character. I didn't dislike her, and her story was sweet (wink wink) and very sad in parts, but her impression on all these people is supposed to be the backbone of the book, didn't come across half as powerful as I expected, and ended up being overshadowed by the rest of the cast.
"An image of me, raw and natural, resurfaced in the mirror. I noticed the fire in my eyes and questioned how long it had been there."
Some of the stories I particularly enjoyed included Gloria's, whose wait for her marine son to return from duty sees her cross paths with Juliette on the subway. It had a strong maternal tone, that showed not only deep love for her son, but also vice versa. It was a lovely hopeful tale, that no matter how far your children may stray, a strongly forged bond will never be broken.
Kevin's story was one of heartbreak. Of a man who didn't know what he had until it was gone. The woman he loved became a convenience for him, and his attention was elsewhere until he realised hers had strayed with it - just in the opposite direction. It also gave a chance for the author to explore a bitter character, as not all of these characters saw uplifting closure.
Emma's story is one of a wandering heart, a child of the world in a way, who finds everything she wants in an equally adventurous man but whose own yearning could not settle in one place. this ultimately breaks up an otherwise perfect union.
Henry's tragedy of losing his young music school sweetheart, who taught him so much about life and love and fun, is heartbreaking. The loss of Elle forced him into a dreary rut, and stale office job, and a rejection of his love of music, for it was what had brought them together, and therefore torn them apart.
Rachel's story was also another where the author wove in a less savoury character, whose own self-consciousness about her successful siblings forces jealously and rudeness - in this case towards Juliette - and ultimately leaves her unable to really fulfil the creativity she holds and find common ground with Juliette.
Robert's story unravels in the supermarket, where he bumps into Juliette not once, not twice, but three times, absolutely by accident, and we're taken through his recent breakup with the married Katherine. It's a sad story, of something ultimately raised to fail, and shows how much we can deceive ourselves about situations because we wish they were true.
And herein lies my issue. I found a lot in these stories that I liked, and the fact that they came in and out of the novel only once was a good parallel for the crossing of paths with Juliette, and also the reading experience of knowing these characters so briefly but their stories still resonating. Still, Juliette doesn't really make an impression in the true sense of the words. She sparks memories in these characters, but a true impression is something that would usually affect the behaviour or choices of another character. Juliette didn't really do that, instead we see people she passes (or that pass her), or people she knows, but whose stories are generally isolated and don't alter in flow when she leaves their tales. I think perhaps a trick was missed.
Though the text would benefit from another edit to enhance its flow and really clarify the power in the story the author intended, plus correct confused POVs, overall I enjoyed it. The above said, Greater Than the Still does have much to recommend it. The author has produced a cast who are wonderfully diverse in character, situation and temperament, and who each tell a tale that someone, somewhere can relate to, which is essentially the message.
"An image of me, raw and natural, resurfaced in the mirror. I noticed the fire in my eyes and questioned how long it had been there."
Some of the stories I particularly enjoyed included Gloria's, whose wait for her marine son to return from duty sees her cross paths with Juliette on the subway. It had a strong maternal tone, that showed not only deep love for her son, but also vice versa. It was a lovely hopeful tale, that no matter how far your children may stray, a strongly forged bond will never be broken.
Kevin's story was one of heartbreak. Of a man who didn't know what he had until it was gone. The woman he loved became a convenience for him, and his attention was elsewhere until he realised hers had strayed with it - just in the opposite direction. It also gave a chance for the author to explore a bitter character, as not all of these characters saw uplifting closure.
Emma's story is one of a wandering heart, a child of the world in a way, who finds everything she wants in an equally adventurous man but whose own yearning could not settle in one place. this ultimately breaks up an otherwise perfect union.
Henry's tragedy of losing his young music school sweetheart, who taught him so much about life and love and fun, is heartbreaking. The loss of Elle forced him into a dreary rut, and stale office job, and a rejection of his love of music, for it was what had brought them together, and therefore torn them apart.
Rachel's story was also another where the author wove in a less savoury character, whose own self-consciousness about her successful siblings forces jealously and rudeness - in this case towards Juliette - and ultimately leaves her unable to really fulfil the creativity she holds and find common ground with Juliette.
Robert's story unravels in the supermarket, where he bumps into Juliette not once, not twice, but three times, absolutely by accident, and we're taken through his recent breakup with the married Katherine. It's a sad story, of something ultimately raised to fail, and shows how much we can deceive ourselves about situations because we wish they were true.
And herein lies my issue. I found a lot in these stories that I liked, and the fact that they came in and out of the novel only once was a good parallel for the crossing of paths with Juliette, and also the reading experience of knowing these characters so briefly but their stories still resonating. Still, Juliette doesn't really make an impression in the true sense of the words. She sparks memories in these characters, but a true impression is something that would usually affect the behaviour or choices of another character. Juliette didn't really do that, instead we see people she passes (or that pass her), or people she knows, but whose stories are generally isolated and don't alter in flow when she leaves their tales. I think perhaps a trick was missed.
Though the text would benefit from another edit to enhance its flow and really clarify the power in the story the author intended, plus correct confused POVs, overall I enjoyed it. The above said, Greater Than the Still does have much to recommend it. The author has produced a cast who are wonderfully diverse in character, situation and temperament, and who each tell a tale that someone, somewhere can relate to, which is essentially the message.
July 9, 2014
We never think much about the impressions we leave on people; in particular the strangers we encounter on a daily basis. The few minutes spent offering someone comforting words just might save their life. Sometimes, just your appearance, or the sound of your voice, or a tattoo you have, could leave someone reminiscent of a time, place or loved one.
These are just some of the impressions that Juliette Laredo leaves as she goes about a more than ordinary day of July 12th. Sarah Dayan's debut novel explores the range of impressions she leaves on people- friends, co-workers, strangers, etc.- on that faithful day in New York.
Already I was intrigued to read this book after learning that the protagonist is Hapa (an individual of part Asian descent). It's rare to come across books these days that showcase people of color- in particular people of mixed race heritage. I am happy that Dayan made the decision to create an already beautiful character with such a background, for it's stories like that, that need to be showcased more often; and Dayan did that to justice towards the end of one of the chapters of the book.
What I loved about the book in its overall capacity is Dayan's vivid descriptions of New York. I'm from the West Coast and have never stepped foot into New York in my life. It was amazing to read descriptions of shops lined together up a street, subway rides, commuters going about their day, and a readable glimpse at the cupcake culture there.
What was most intriguing above everything else of course was encountering the individuals who were graced with Juliette's presence that day. As readers, we got to learn their stories- some of them were more heavy thematically than others. When their chapters ended, they always tended to leave you wanting to know more about them.
Dayan's exposure to the culture of New York was even more authentically crafted out by having the characters trace from all walks of life and statuses as well; from a single Puerto Rican mother, to an Italian cafe owner; from a Julliard dropout office worker, to Juliette's West Coast-bred, supportive boyfriend. It just goes to show that no matter where they came from, they're all connected by the fact that 1. they live in this prominent city in the US and 2. they all have a memory of Juliette encased in their minds, to some capacity.
With this being a first book- and a self-published one as well- of course it was also a little rough around the edges. I encountered a number of grammar errors that appeared throughout the book that I guess weren't caught in time. There were also a couple of chapters that could have been a little stronger. But overall though, these were minor flaws. The book kept me engaged in the content provided otherwise.
I definitely would recommend this book for anyone who's up for a good read about the connection amongst all humans. Dayan was wise in setting such a story in a place as collective as New York. You never know who you're connected to, or who you're going to run into.
I look forward to reading more from this new author in the future to come.
These are just some of the impressions that Juliette Laredo leaves as she goes about a more than ordinary day of July 12th. Sarah Dayan's debut novel explores the range of impressions she leaves on people- friends, co-workers, strangers, etc.- on that faithful day in New York.
Already I was intrigued to read this book after learning that the protagonist is Hapa (an individual of part Asian descent). It's rare to come across books these days that showcase people of color- in particular people of mixed race heritage. I am happy that Dayan made the decision to create an already beautiful character with such a background, for it's stories like that, that need to be showcased more often; and Dayan did that to justice towards the end of one of the chapters of the book.
What I loved about the book in its overall capacity is Dayan's vivid descriptions of New York. I'm from the West Coast and have never stepped foot into New York in my life. It was amazing to read descriptions of shops lined together up a street, subway rides, commuters going about their day, and a readable glimpse at the cupcake culture there.
What was most intriguing above everything else of course was encountering the individuals who were graced with Juliette's presence that day. As readers, we got to learn their stories- some of them were more heavy thematically than others. When their chapters ended, they always tended to leave you wanting to know more about them.
Dayan's exposure to the culture of New York was even more authentically crafted out by having the characters trace from all walks of life and statuses as well; from a single Puerto Rican mother, to an Italian cafe owner; from a Julliard dropout office worker, to Juliette's West Coast-bred, supportive boyfriend. It just goes to show that no matter where they came from, they're all connected by the fact that 1. they live in this prominent city in the US and 2. they all have a memory of Juliette encased in their minds, to some capacity.
With this being a first book- and a self-published one as well- of course it was also a little rough around the edges. I encountered a number of grammar errors that appeared throughout the book that I guess weren't caught in time. There were also a couple of chapters that could have been a little stronger. But overall though, these were minor flaws. The book kept me engaged in the content provided otherwise.
I definitely would recommend this book for anyone who's up for a good read about the connection amongst all humans. Dayan was wise in setting such a story in a place as collective as New York. You never know who you're connected to, or who you're going to run into.
I look forward to reading more from this new author in the future to come.
October 7, 2014
Juliette Laredo has lived in New York all her life. Choosing to leave her career as a mental health counselor behind and pursue her passion of baking, Juliette is still unsure about her life choices. Following several perspectives of the New Yorkers that Juliette crosses paths with on a single day, Greater Than the Still will take you on many different journeys—all the while showing how one person can change the lives of many.
While reading Greater Than the Still, I felt as if I was peeking into the lives of real, everyday people. I laughed, cried, sympathized with, and shouted at different characters. It made me hopeful, contemplative, sad, inspired, and happy all at the same time. This book examines so many different angles of the human heart—hopes, dreams, motives, love, lust, fulfillment, passions, fears, etc. One of the things I love most about reading is being able to learn something through each and every story that wouldn’t have otherwise been possible, and this book had me feeling like I had really travelled to New York and met all these interesting characters. It helped me gain a whole new perspective on how much we can affect those around us. The people that Juliette encountered and their stories were definitely engrossing, but what interested me most about this read was Juliette’s story itself. As a self-taught baker with dreams and passions myself, I connected with her on a level that was unique. Her hopes, dreams, and passions—and taking the leap to pursue them in spite of fear—inspired me greatly.
Though I really enjoyed Greater Than the Still, I do have to mention that this is not your typical fictional novel and won’t be for everyone. For those looking for a single character driven story, this isn’t it. But if you are looking for a grappling read that will leave you with a whole new perspective on everyday life and the people we encounter, read this book! It was so refreshing and I will definitely be recommending Greater Than the Still to family and friends. I only have one more thing to add—isn’t the cover just gorgeous?!
**I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FROM THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR MY HONEST REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS ARE COMPLETELY MY OWN.
http://www.willbakeforbooks.com/2014/...
While reading Greater Than the Still, I felt as if I was peeking into the lives of real, everyday people. I laughed, cried, sympathized with, and shouted at different characters. It made me hopeful, contemplative, sad, inspired, and happy all at the same time. This book examines so many different angles of the human heart—hopes, dreams, motives, love, lust, fulfillment, passions, fears, etc. One of the things I love most about reading is being able to learn something through each and every story that wouldn’t have otherwise been possible, and this book had me feeling like I had really travelled to New York and met all these interesting characters. It helped me gain a whole new perspective on how much we can affect those around us. The people that Juliette encountered and their stories were definitely engrossing, but what interested me most about this read was Juliette’s story itself. As a self-taught baker with dreams and passions myself, I connected with her on a level that was unique. Her hopes, dreams, and passions—and taking the leap to pursue them in spite of fear—inspired me greatly.
Though I really enjoyed Greater Than the Still, I do have to mention that this is not your typical fictional novel and won’t be for everyone. For those looking for a single character driven story, this isn’t it. But if you are looking for a grappling read that will leave you with a whole new perspective on everyday life and the people we encounter, read this book! It was so refreshing and I will definitely be recommending Greater Than the Still to family and friends. I only have one more thing to add—isn’t the cover just gorgeous?!
**I RECEIVED THIS BOOK FROM THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR MY HONEST REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS ARE COMPLETELY MY OWN.
http://www.willbakeforbooks.com/2014/...
August 28, 2014
Juliette Laredo is conflicted. On the brink of deciding to return to a career as a mental health counselor or follow her passion as a pastry chef, Juliette’s worries surface when she is faced with a choice - duty or passion. Moving through the story is more than a dozen New Yorkers whose lives are touched by Juliette, even briefly. This is an interesting book, one which draws you from chapter to chapter. While Juliette seems to have "finished" her story, I felt I was left dangling at the end. Throughout the story, July 12th is mentioned, but not in any way tied to the ending. But each chapter has interesting characters and circumstances.
August 15, 2014
Read my review of this book over my blog: Virna Aryanita
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews