Primates of Park Avenue

I read this book for the pure titillation level, because I’m fascinated by high society in general and New York culture in particular.

And the book delivered on that level – there are some horrifying anecdotes where of a woman trying to fit into Upper East Side mommies. Women who use Birkin bags as weapons, and spend their days in a never-ending power struggle with other moms while always aware that they’re completely dependent on husbands that many of them rarely see.

But the book turns in the penultimate chapter. Something happens, and the entire book changes. This woman learns about the true nature of tribalism, and the underlying connection that binds mothers far below the surface. It’s remarkable.