" ‘The Girls’ tells the story of Rose and Ruby Darlen, who are not only literally but spiritually attached for eternity. Born joined at the head in 1974 to a feckless teenage mother who abandons them, and reared by a delightfully open-minded adoptive couple, the Darlen girls are darling girls, indeed. "
- Stacey D'Erasmo

The quote describes the lives of Rose and Ruby Darlen, a pair of conjoined twins born in 1974. Their unique physical condition means they are joined at the head, creating both literal and spiritual bonds that define their existence. The passage also mentions that their biological mother was young and irresponsible when they were conceived, leading her to abandon them shortly after birth. However, they were adopted by a loving couple who embraced their unusual circumstances with open-mindedness and kindness.

Beyond its straightforward narrative, the quote delves into themes of resilience, interconnectedness, and nurturing. The literal bond between Rose and Ruby highlights how deeply intertwined human connections can be. This physical connection suggests a metaphorical tie that transcends mere biology or circumstance, emphasizing a profound spiritual unity. Additionally, their story underscores the importance of supportive family environments in shaping individuals' development and well-being, especially when faced with challenges like being abandoned by a teenage mother.

The quote is from Stacey D'Erasmo, an accomplished author known for her novels that explore complex human relationships and emotional depth. Her work often focuses on characters navigating life's complexities with resilience and insight, much like the story of Rose and Ruby Darlen suggests in this excerpt.