Through the Glass — Barbara Smith

Through the Glass is an upbeat, poignant story about a stained glass artist whose studio faces a cul-de-sac in the outskirts of Logan, West Virginia. Through her front window, Patricia Tazewell keeps close track of her neighbors, whose business she insists upon knowing. The story has several serious subplots, including one involving Patricia's daughter, Celia, who, at thirty-nine years of age, is suffering from Bipolar Disorder and still lives with her mother. Patricia, a widow, develops interest in two men, one is married and the other deserts her. Like the biblical Job but with a far better sense of humor, Patricia remains faithful and optimistic. In spite of loose ends still dangling, Pat eventually takes control of her life.