Bomb Shelter

By: Mary Laura Philpott

Narrated by: Mary Laura Philpott

A New York Times Editors’ Choice
One of NPR’s Best Books of the Year

“A beautifully wrought ode to life…a precious gift to the world.” —The Washington Post

From the bestselling author of I Miss You When I Blink comes a poignant and powerful new memoir that tackles the big questions of life, death, and existential fear with humor and hope.

As a daughter, mother, and friend, Mary Laura Philpott considered herself an “anxious optimist”—a natural worrier with a stubborn sense of good cheer. And while she didn’t really think she had any sort of magical protective powers, she believed in her heart that as long as she loved her people enough, she could keep them safe.

Then, in the early hours of one dark morning at home, her belief was upended. In the months that followed, she turned to poignant memories, priceless stories, and a medley of coping mechanisms (with comically mixed success) to regain her equilibrium and find meaning in everyday wonders.

Hailed by The Washington Post as “Nora Ephron, Erma Bombeck, Jean Kerr, and Laurie Colwin all rolled into one,” Philpott tackles the big questions of life, death, and existential fear—not to mention the lessons of an inscrutable backyard turtle—with hope, humor, and joy.

Critic reviews

"In this essay collection, author and narrator Mary Laura Philpott brings to life the worries, absurdities, and challenges that arise from loving people through life’s transitions. Philpott’s perceptive presentation invites listeners to hear her inner dialogue as she reflects on parenting a child diagnosed with epilepsy, as well as dealing with aging parents, the loss of beloved pets, and becoming middle-aged. Philpott sensitively narrates themes ranging in emotion from profound — her feelings surrounding the approaching departure of her growing children — to humorous — her descriptions of Frank the turtle, who roams her yard at will, a living symbol of patience and loyalty. Through these vignettes, Philpott draws meaningful conclusions with an engaging style."

I loved this book

I don’t really know how to explain why, but I just loved this book! It’s funny, heartwarming, and profound at times. I really, really liked it. I also loved that she did the narration!

Bravo!

This was book was the hug I needed after two long years of parenting in a pandemic.

I couldn’t love this book more

I related so deeply to Mary Laura’s impossible desire to protect those she loves and the agony of living with uncertainty. I am also a mother approaching middle age, and every word of this story rang true for me. “I Miss You When I Blink” was also terrific, and I’m glad I read it first, though each book stands alone. Mary Laura was a wonderful narrator in the Audible version. I look forward to experiencing “Bomb Shelter” again in print.

Insightful and moving

This book was powerful and so insightful. Masterfully written, there was no hindrance to enjoying and absorbing this wisdom of this author. It made me smile, cry, be more present, and fear death less. It made me worry less, and feel less guilt about all the worries that will never go away. Really a gift. I will be purchasing many hand bound copies for gifts.

A book that will uplift and affirm.

What could be better than reading Mary Laura Philpott’s new book- taking her with you wherever go; a walk, a road trip, or hunkered down in your cozy chair. Philpott connects the dots of her life in language that will comfort, delight, and resonate to the reader in a way that elevates life experiences from common to profound. You will want to listen, listen again, and share generously.