With nearly 30% of American adults estranged from a family member, the quiet epidemic of familial disconnect is far more common than many realize. Carla Seaquist’s Across The Kitchen Table boldly confronts this reality, offering a heartfelt and courageous account of family estrangement through the lens of her own life. Through the deeply strained relationship between a mother and daughter, Seaquist crafts a narrative that is both intimate and universally resonant.
More than a traditional memoir, Across The Kitchen Table is a poignant reflection on the fragile nature of family relationships and the emotional scars left by separation and misunderstanding. Seaquist recounts the devastating loss of her daughter and the resulting rupture in her family ties, presenting her story with unflinching honesty. The book unfolds as a deeply personal journey through grief, conflict, and the search for reconciliation, ultimately guiding readers toward healing and introspection.
Known for her work as a playwright, essayist, and author, Carla Seaquist has long explored complex social and cultural themes. Her acclaimed plays—including Who Cares? and Looking for Atticus—as well as her essays in major publications, showcase her talent for tackling difficult subjects with empathy and intellectual clarity. In Across The Kitchen Table, she brings that same thoughtful voice to the deeply personal subject of family estrangement.
Seaquist’s writing opens a much-needed dialogue on a topic often kept in the shadows. She invites readers into the emotional depth of familial breakdowns while simultaneously extending a message of hope. Her storytelling fosters understanding, encouraging those who are estranged or affected by estrangement to confront painful emotions, initiate healing conversations, and perhaps, rediscover a path to reconciliation.
This book speaks not only to those who have experienced estrangement firsthand, but also to anyone who cherishes the value of family and yearns for deeper connection. Across The Kitchen Table urges readers to reflect, forgive, and communicate with empathy—reminding us that even the most fractured relationships can find a way toward peace.
Watch the book trailer: https://youtu.be/lmyVYfJKPsw