Raising Raffi, the 2023 novel by Keith Gessen, is a deceptively quiet story about the complexities of modern parenthood, marriage, and the lingering echoes of political idealism. Gessen, known for his incisive non-fiction and his work as a co-founder of the literary magazine *n+1*, brings a keen observational eye and a dry wit to this exploration of a Brooklyn family navigating the everyday chaos of raising a small child. The novel arrives at a moment where many are questioning the personal sacrifices involved in parenthood, and the sometimes-contradictory demands of family life and individual ambition, making its themes feel intensely relevant. Find it on Amazon here.
The narrative centers on the family of Sam, a somewhat adrift academic, and his wife, Natasha, a Russian immigrant with a strong sense of self and a demanding career. Their young son, Raffi, is the fulcrum around which their lives—and the narrative—revolve. The plot isn’t driven by grand events but by the small, often humorous, and sometimes frustrating moments of daily life: tantrums, sleepless nights, awkward social interactions with other parents, and the constant negotiation of childcare responsibilities. The pacing is deliberate, allowing readers to settle into the rhythms of their life, mirroring the often slow and repetitive nature of early parenthood. The setting of Brooklyn, with its blend of gentrified neighborhoods and lingering traces of its industrial past, becomes a character in itself, a stage for their domestic drama. The atmosphere is often one of controlled chaos, reflecting the internal anxieties and the external pressures of their situation.
Sam and Natasha are incredibly well-drawn characters, flawed and relatable. Sam, a man wrestling with a sense of lost purpose, often finds himself overwhelmed by the demands of fatherhood. He’s a character many will identify with: he’s well-meaning, but frequently gets things wrong, lost in his own thoughts and anxieties. Natasha, on the other hand, is a force of nature—driven, pragmatic, and fiercely protective of her family. The dynamics between them are compelling, marked by both love and friction, mirroring the complexities of any long-term relationship. Their individual struggles, and the ways in which they clash, add depth to the narrative, preventing it from becoming a simple depiction of domestic bliss. It’s less about grand gestures and more about the subtle shifts in their relationship, the ways they support—and sometimes fail—each other. The evolution of their characters is also marked by their individual experiences, and how their past shapes their present.
The novel tackles several central themes, including the tension between individual freedom and parental responsibility, the challenges of maintaining a marriage while raising a child, and the enduring influence of the past. There’s also a subtle exploration of class and cultural differences, particularly through Natasha’s experiences as a Russian immigrant navigating American life. Raising Raffi avoids easy answers, instead presenting the messiness of these experiences. For me, the book resonated deeply with the feelings of being pulled in multiple directions – the demands of work, family, and personal growth. It highlighted the constant balancing act of modern life, and the ways in which our own personal histories can impact how we approach these challenges. Purchase it on Amazon now.
Gessen’s writing style is marked by its understated elegance and keen observation. His prose is clear and precise, allowing the story to unfold organically without unnecessary embellishment. The dialogue feels realistic, capturing the nuances of everyday conversation, and the subtle power dynamics at play between the characters. The pacing, while deliberate, never feels slow or boring. Gessen has a knack for finding the humor in mundane situations, often using dry wit to lighten the often-heavy emotional weight of the narrative. He doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable realities of parenting, but he also manages to find the moments of joy and connection that make it all worthwhile. This balance between humor and pathos is one of the book’s greatest strengths.
Raising Raffi is not a book that provides easy answers. Instead, it offers a nuanced and honest portrayal of the messy, complex, and often contradictory experience of modern family life. It’s a book that stays with you long after you finish reading, prompting reflection on your own relationships and the choices you make. It’s a valuable contribution to the canon of contemporary fiction, offering a realistic portrayal of parenthood, and a thoughtful exploration of the challenges and rewards of family life. Click here to buy Raising Raffi. It’s a book that would appeal to anyone who is navigating the challenges of parenthood or simply interested in a well-written story about human relationships. If you enjoyed novels like *Fleishman Is in Trouble* by Taffy Brodesser-Akner or *The Days of Abandonment* by Elena Ferrante, you’ll likely find Raising Raffi to be a compelling and thought-provoking read. It is also a great book for those interested in the dynamics of immigrant families in the US.
Ultimately, Raising Raffi matters because it portrays the reality of family life without sentimentality or romanticism. It shows the struggles, the small victories, and the constant negotiation of love, responsibility, and individual identity. This is not a book about perfect parents or a perfect family, but about real people trying their best in a world that often feels overwhelming. It’s a book that offers both comfort and challenge, and one that is sure to resonate with a wide range of readers. It leaves a lasting impact by reminding us that even in the midst of chaos, there is beauty, humor, and connection to be found. Check the price and availability on Amazon.