(37)Tilt by Emma Pattee

 

Set over the course of one day, a heart-racing story about a woman facing the unimaginable, determined to find safety

Annie is nine months pregnant and shopping for a crib at IKEA when a massive earthquake hits Portland, Oregon. With no way to reach her husband, no phone or money, and a city left in chaos, she realizes there’s nothing to do but walk.

Making her way across the wreckage of Portland, Annie experiences human desperation and kindness: strangers offering help, a riot at a grocery store, and an unlikely friendship with a young mother. As she walks, Annie reflects on her struggling marriage, her disappointing career, and her anxiety about having a baby. She’s determined to change her life if she can just make it home.

While walking on a local trail, I listened to this book on vacation. All I could think about was what would happen if I were in town when an earthquake hit. And I haven't worn Birkenstocks while leaving the house since I listened to this book. Annie's perseverance was admirable, especially as an extremely pregnant woman. As the day wears on, she tries to get to her husband and reflect on their relationship. 

I was a little disappointed that there wasn't "more" at the end of the book. The reader is left to decide what happens the next day and beyond. 

Details: 

• Tilt by Emma Pattee
• Pages: 240
• Publisher: S&S/ Marysue Rucci Books
• Publication Date: 3/25/2025
• Buy it Here!