Summary

In Chapter One, Cecilia Fitzpatrick, one of the main characters, is looking for her piece of the Berlin Wall in her attic when she finds a letter written to her by John-Paul, her husband. He had labeled the letter to be read after his death. Since her husband is still alive, Cecilia debates whether or not she should open it. Although Cecilia is known for her perfectly organized life, her daughter’s activities, and wonderful dinners, the letter takes away her focus. She recalls seeing a little boy hit by a car and killed a year ago. She believes the experience has made her more aware of how quickly one’s life can become abnormal.

When she was twenty years old, Cecilia had visited the Berlin Wall. Now, she tries to remember some details about the visit for her 10-year-old daughter who is...