By Rabbi Rachel Esserman 

Distance creates far better relationships with siblings and in-laws than does traveling or living together. At least, that’s the lesson that could be learned from two recent novels: “Serge” by Yasmina Reza (Restless Books) and “Good Grief” by Sara Goodman Confino (Lake Union). However, the strength of those connections is also portrayed in these works. Reza shows the difficulties of traveling with siblings, in this case to visit Auschwitz and Birkenau, while Goodman notes the problems that occur after a mother-in-law moves in with her widowed daughter-in-law and two grandchildren. 
“Serge” is narrated by Jean, the middle son, who, with his older brother, Serge, and younger sister, Nana, faces life after the death of their mother. The family doesn’t come across as particularly pleasant: their late father was physically abusive to Serge and their mother seemed not to have much interest in her children. The parents didn’t talk about their lives before moving to France, but the siblings are aware that members of their extended family perished in the Holocaust. However, they have no interest in learning more about them. It’s only when Serge’s daughter, Joséphine, decides that they should visit Auschwitz and Birkenau to pay their respects to those family members who died there that the siblings agree to revisit the past.
However, rather than appreciating what they might learn, the siblings squabble, complain and, in general, behave rather badly. Most of the fault belongs to Serge, who clearly did not want to make the trip. His behavior – particularly with women – also makes him less than admirable. Jean seems to try, but his life appears lackluster, at least relationship-wise. Nana is the only one happily married, although her brothers dislike and ridicule her husband. 
While the characters in “Serge” are not ones readers might want to know personally, reading about them was interesting. Although the fact they didn’t find their trip to the concentration camps meaningful might be disturbing, it did feel very realistic. Parts of the novel are humorous, at least for those who don’t mind dark humor. The ending does show a different and welcome side to the family: the pull of their connection proves stronger than one might think. 
While the humor in “Serge” might make one nod in recognition, parts of “Good Grief” are laugh-out-loud funny. Two years after her husband died, Barbara Feldman, who is in her 30s, is finally ready to stand on her own two feet. Her mother has been helping out, but Barbara feels that she and her two children – Susie, age 8 and Bobby, age 6 – are prepared to live this new version of their life. However, it’s 1963 and opportunities for women are limited. Fortunately for Barbara, a volunteer position at a nearby hospital has turned into a permanent part-time position. Everything seems set, that is, until her mother-in-law Ruth shows up to permanently move in with them, claiming finances have caused her to give up her own home. 
Ruth is not a particularly pleasant person and takes over in ways that make Barbara feel unwelcome in her own home. However, some of what Ruth does is very funny – everything from getting a dog for the children, putting up horrible wallpaper in the kitchen and complaining about Barbara’s cooking. The children, however, love having her around since she pampers them. Barbara complains to her good friend, Janet, and depends on Janet’s brother, Eddie, to help her through her difficulties. Barbara then decides the best way to get rid of her mother-in-law is to find her a husband. However, Ruth has the same idea for Barbara and the results of their actions are wonderfully good fun. The plot does have its serious aspects connected to the hospital: the resolution to those problems is completely unbelievable, but will leave readers cheering with joy.
“Good Grief” was great fun to read, even though regular readers of romance will figure out the romantic aspect of Barbara’s journey almost immediately. That didn’t spoil the fun, though: watching her finally understand the person’s feelings will leave readers sighing with relief. This excellent feel-good novel is perfect for those who love rom-coms.