Archive · 27 Oct 2025
Novel Explores Identity, Motherhood, and Friendship: 'Goodbye Without Leaving'
This book is about a woman named Geraldine who feels lost and unsure of herself.
She tries different things like being a dancer in a band to find her identity, which goes against her mother's wishes.
She eventually marries and becomes a mother, but still doesn't feel like she's found herself.
The story follows her journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of friendship, relationships, and figuring out what truly matters in life.
Through all her ups and downs, her best friend Mary is there for her, until Geraldine can find her own truth.
The novel centers on Geraldine Coleshares, struggling with identity and expectations.
Geraldine defies her mother's wishes by joining a rock 'n' roll group.
She marries a lawyer and becomes a mother, leading to an identity crisis.
Geraldine's best friend, Mary Abbott, offers support and understanding.
The story explores themes of authenticity, motherhood, and self-discovery.
- Who
- Geraldine Coleshares, the protagonist.
- What
- A novel exploring a woman's journey through identity, relationships, and motherhood.
- When
- The novel was published in 1990.
- Where
- N/A
- Why
- To explore the questions that trouble every modern woman: Soulmate, child vs. career, feminism and spirituality, and the pressures of motherhood.
- Author
- Laurie Colwin
- Title
- Goodbye Without Leaving
- Protagonist
- Geraldine Coleshares
- Geraldine's Career
- Singer/Dancer (Shakette)
- Key Relationship
- Best friend Mary Abbott
- Published By
- Harper Via