September 13, 2024
The four Jacobson siblings were raised to be frugal. Their mother reused tea bags and only bought things on sale. However, as adults, their financial lives are a mess. After their mother's death, they reunite when their father puts their beloved Jersey Shore home up for sale. Trouble is brewing for each of the Jacobsons, and packing up their childhood home brings forth memories. When Noah buys a lottery ticket, he can't imagine that he'd win, but instead, they all become millionaires. Flush with money, the siblings soon forget the lessons from their mother and find solace in objects instead of in one another. Friedland (The Most Likely Club) takes listeners to the Jersey Shore for an emotion-filled summer with the Jacobson siblings. Jealousy and rivalry are brought to the forefront, but so is the love of family. Th�r�se Plummer narrates as the Jacobsons navigate their newfound wealth and personal issues in a way that highlights the drama and dysfunction while also showing the bonds between siblings, parents, and children as they try to do their best. VERDICT An engaging listen, highlighting the importance of family, the inevitability of change, and the allure of money. Friedland's fans will be pleased.--Elyssa Everling
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