Ordinary People / Judith Guest 263 p.

Cal, Beth and Conrad Jarrett seems to be the ideal family -- ordinary  middle class people you meet everyday.  A boating accident takes the life of the eldest son, leaving the rest of the family reeling from the death.  Con, loaded with guilt, attempted suicide, is hospitalized, and returns home.  Home is the place where one doesn't talk.  He has a inaccessible and indifferent mother; a father who is somewhat overprotective-- all with issues to deal with.  Con is making the effort.  He connects with a girl at school.  He still needs his shrink.  All is not perfect as one may think at first glance.