Rappaport's father, who had left the children's home in the wake of a divorce prior to her mother's suicide, emerges as he reveals more about his feelings and view of the events. At the time, he was a public figure as a successful attorney, and the press made much of the divorce. This press coverage revealed much to the author as she explored this shocking and painful event in the life of this family of talented and creative individuals. Much like a watercolor painting, the family comes to life in this book as details are learned and feelings expressed. In the process, her relationship to her long-deceased mother becomes more complete and richer. There is much to appreciate here in terms of grief and loss and the value of knowing about one's family. At the same time, we are reminded about the devastation caused by suicide in families and the need for "postvention" and prevention.