Summary

The work opens with a section titled "The Offspring," which is set on April 15, 2000, 16 years before the bulk of the events. This section describes the eldest Sorenson daughter's wedding and opens with Marilyn, the matriarch's perspective. She observes her four daughters and reflects on each of their idiosyncrasies. This opening provides a quick glimpse of each of the main characters' perspectives. Marilyn and David are parents to four girls: Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace. Marilyn is drawn to her husband as she wonders and worries about the welfare of each of their daughters. In turn, each of their daughters observes the two of them embracing, under the ginkgo, and marvels at their love for one another.

Part One is entitled Spring, and begins with Chapter One in which Violet is slated to meet her older sister, Wendy. Upon arrival, she finds Wendy sitting...