The Children's Crusade by Ann Packer
This intimate novel follows the complicated relationships within the Blair family for three decades. In 1954 Bill, a pediatrician, purchases land in what will become Silicon Valley. He marries Penny, who suffocates under the weight of being domestic and raising children. She longs to be an artist but must first see Robert (responsible), Rebecca (studious), Ryan (dreamer) and James (holy terror) through childhood. Each family member tells their side of the story, good and bad. As the years roll by there are heart-wrenching memories and resentments; all rendered so clearly by Ms. Packer that you’ll recognize bits of their experiences in your own life.