The "script" alluded to in the title is the script that every parent has for themselves and their children, at least on some level. College, marriage, kids, whatever their subconscious expectations are, that is their script. Well, Sheila Katz' life isn't quite turning out the way she had it scripted.

I have to admit that when Therese handed me A Departure from the Script and asked me to read it for review I was a bit put off after reading the back cover. "Why would I want to read this?" I asked. "It's Jewish stuff!" said T, in her most adorable manner.

But, it was more than Jewish stuff. The book centers on a mother (Sheila Katz) and her reaction to her daughter coming out, after the disappointment of seeing her son marry a (gasp!) shiksa (non-Jewish woman).

She also has to deal with her husband, who seems to be in denial about the entire Our daughter is a lesbian situation, and here's where I really hit the anticipatory roof, her own growing attraction to a striking lesbian artist.

The taller of the two women, touched the other's hand, passing her something. A lover's note? I hurried toward them, half believing that if I only knew what lay between them, I'd understand Jenny's new lifestyle. The short-haired woman perused the slip of paper her lover had handed her, then murmured to her confidingly, I edge closer to catch her words. "Well, it's up to you, sweeties," she said in a husky voice. "But with this coupon we only get sixty cents off, even after it's doubled. We'll save even more just buying the Giant brand."

And just in case all that isn't enough, the book came complete with a Reading Group Guide because the author is a card-carrying member of PFLAG.

But, needing reading material, and with not just a little trepidation, I sat down to read the book.

And it was wonderful.

It was better than wonderful.

It was a real novel.

Reminiscent in flavor and style to Olivia Goldsmith, who has written glorious novels such as "The First Wives Club." (And if you thought that movie was great, you still have to read the book.)

The characters in A Departure From The Script are just enough over the top to be lovable and fun while still being believable.

I don't want to give any of the book away for it is a delightful page turner that could only spoiled for you if I suggest any of the possible plot twists or even the plot meanderings.

Rest assured, however, that you will enjoy every character, every event, every argument, every resolution, every plot and subplot, and most of all, every word.

Deborah Levinson
Community activist and WebMaven of Gay/Lesbian Issues