The Sleepwalker by Chris Bohjalian

Last updated: Sep 22, 2023

Summary of The Sleepwalker by Chris Bohjalian

The Sleepwalker by Chris Bohjalian is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the mysterious disappearance of Annalee Ahlberg, a sleepwalker. The story is narrated by her daughter, Lianna, who is determined to uncover the truth behind her mother's vanishing.

The novel is set in a small town in Vermont, where Annalee's sleepwalking episodes have become a regular occurrence. Lianna and her older sister, Paige, have grown accustomed to their mother's nocturnal wanderings, but when Annalee goes missing one night, their lives are turned upside down.

As the search for Annalee intensifies, Lianna becomes increasingly obsessed with finding her mother. She delves into her mother's past, uncovering secrets and hidden desires that she never knew existed. Lianna's investigation leads her to question her own memories and the people around her.

Throughout the book, Bohjalian explores the complexities of sleepwalking and its impact on Annalee's family. He delves into the psychological and emotional toll it takes on Lianna and Paige, as they struggle to come to terms with their mother's disappearance.

As Lianna digs deeper into her mother's life, she uncovers a web of lies and deceit. She discovers that Annalee had been involved in a secret affair with a man named Gavin Rikert, a fellow sleepwalker. Lianna suspects that Gavin may have something to do with her mother's disappearance.

As the plot unfolds, Lianna's search for the truth becomes increasingly dangerous. She finds herself in the middle of a web of deception, where nothing is as it seems. Lianna must confront her own fears and insecurities as she races against time to find her mother.

In the end, Lianna discovers the shocking truth about her mother's disappearance. The Sleepwalker is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that explores the depths of family secrets and the lengths one will go to protect the ones they love.

1. The Importance of Sleep

In "The Sleepwalker," Chris Bohjalian highlights the significance of sleep in our lives. The book delves into the mysterious world of sleepwalking and explores the potential dangers and consequences of disrupted sleep patterns. Through the protagonist's experiences, readers gain a deeper understanding of the vital role sleep plays in our physical and mental well-being.

Bohjalian's narrative serves as a reminder that quality sleep is essential for maintaining optimal health. It emphasizes the importance of establishing a consistent sleep routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and prioritizing restful sleep. By recognizing the value of sleep, readers can make conscious efforts to improve their sleep habits and prioritize self-care.

2. The Complexity of Memory

"The Sleepwalker" also delves into the intricate nature of memory. The protagonist's mother suffers from sleepwalking episodes and experiences memory loss, leading to a captivating exploration of the fragility and unreliability of our recollections.

Bohjalian's portrayal of memory serves as a reminder that our perceptions of events and people may not always align with reality. It prompts readers to question their own memories and consider the potential biases and distortions that can occur over time. This insight encourages a more critical and introspective approach to understanding our own memories and those of others.

3. The Power of Family Bonds

Throughout "The Sleepwalker," the strength of family bonds is a recurring theme. The protagonist's unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth about her mother's disappearance showcases the power of familial love and loyalty.

Bohjalian's exploration of family dynamics serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and cherishing our relationships with loved ones. It encourages readers to prioritize open communication, empathy, and support within their own families. By recognizing the significance of family bonds, readers can strive to cultivate stronger connections and create a supportive network of loved ones.

4. The Complexity of Human Psychology

"The Sleepwalker" delves into the complexities of human psychology, particularly through the exploration of sleep disorders and their impact on mental health. The book highlights the intricate interplay between our subconscious minds and conscious actions.

Bohjalian's portrayal of the protagonist's journey to understand her mother's sleepwalking and its potential psychological underpinnings offers valuable insights into the intricacies of the human mind. It prompts readers to consider the multifaceted nature of their own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This understanding can lead to increased self-awareness and empathy towards others, fostering healthier relationships and personal growth.

5. The Dangers of Suppressing Trauma

One of the thought-provoking takeaways from "The Sleepwalker" is the exploration of the consequences of suppressing trauma. The protagonist's mother's sleepwalking episodes are linked to a traumatic event from her past, highlighting the potential long-term effects of unaddressed emotional wounds.

Bohjalian's narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and processing trauma. It encourages readers to seek professional help and support when dealing with past traumas, emphasizing the potential dangers of burying painful experiences. By addressing and healing from trauma, individuals can work towards emotional well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

6. The Intricacies of Relationships

"The Sleepwalker" delves into the complexities of relationships, particularly through the lens of the protagonist's marriage. The book explores the challenges of maintaining a strong and healthy partnership amidst personal struggles and external pressures.

Bohjalian's portrayal of the protagonist's marriage serves as a reminder of the importance of open communication, trust, and empathy in relationships. It prompts readers to reflect on their own relationships and consider the ways in which they can foster stronger connections with their partners. By recognizing the intricacies of relationships, readers can strive for healthier and more fulfilling partnerships.

7. The Impact of Secrets

Throughout "The Sleepwalker," the consequences of keeping secrets are explored. The protagonist's journey to uncover the truth about her mother's disappearance reveals the potential harm that can arise from hidden truths.

Bohjalian's narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and transparency in relationships. It encourages readers to consider the potential impact of their own secrets and the potential benefits of sharing them with trusted individuals. By recognizing the power of secrets, readers can strive for more authentic and open connections with others.

8. The Complexity of Identity

"The Sleepwalker" delves into the intricate nature of identity, particularly through the exploration of the protagonist's search for her mother's true self. The book raises thought-provoking questions about the fluidity and complexity of individual identities.

Bohjalian's portrayal of identity serves as a reminder that our sense of self is multifaceted and can evolve over time. It prompts readers to reflect on their own identities and consider the various factors that shape who they are. This understanding can lead to increased self-acceptance and empathy towards others, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.