Vessels: A Love Story

Marriage can be rife with challenges even in the best of times, but when a relationship is beset by tragedy, as Raeburn (a writer and teacher at the University of Chicago) recounts in this affecting and often wrenching memoir, that is when vows and bonds are truly tested. Raeburn, at loose ends professionally and personally, meets Bekah, a potter, at a party, and they have an instant connection. But Raeburn endured his parent’s shattering divorce and wants nothing to do with marriage or kids. Bekah, also a bit lost after experiencing artistic success, makes the first move. After they get engaged, Raeburn is still fighting his lingering reluctance when Bekah learns she’s pregnant, but ultimately miscarries. When she gets pregnant again, she discovers she has a thyroid condition and placenta abruptia, placing her chances of carrying to term at 50/50. The baby, Irene, is stillborn, but Bekah goes through the labor because her midwife explains it will improve her chances of giving birth later on. They’re haunted by Irene, keeping her ashes in a vase Bekah made. They go to a support group, bury themselves in work, take note of which friends and relatives say and do nothing while they grieve, and mark Irene’s almost birthdays. Raeburn writes palpably of loss and anguish, but also shows how love, hope, and resilience triumph over despair. (Mar.)