Buy new:
-5% $18.99
FREE delivery Tuesday, May 14 on orders shipped by Amazon over $35
Ships from: Amazon.com
Sold by: Amazon.com
$18.99 with 5 percent savings
List Price: $19.99

The List Price is the suggested retail price of a new product as provided by a manufacturer, supplier, or seller. Except for books, Amazon will display a List Price if the product was purchased by customers on Amazon or offered by other retailers at or above the List Price in at least the past 90 days. List prices may not necessarily reflect the product's prevailing market price.
Learn more
Get Fast, Free Shipping with Amazon Prime FREE Returns
FREE delivery Tuesday, May 14 on orders shipped by Amazon over $35
In Stock
$$18.99 () Includes selected options. Includes initial monthly payment and selected options. Details
Price
Subtotal
$$18.99
Subtotal
Initial payment breakdown
Shipping cost, delivery date, and order total (including tax) shown at checkout.
Ships from
Amazon.com
Ships from
Amazon.com
Sold by
Amazon.com
Sold by
Amazon.com
Returns
Eligible for Return, Refund or Replacement within 30 days of receipt
Eligible for Return, Refund or Replacement within 30 days of receipt
This item can be returned in its original condition for a full refund or replacement within 30 days of receipt.
Read full return policy
Returns
Eligible for Return, Refund or Replacement within 30 days of receipt
This item can be returned in its original condition for a full refund or replacement within 30 days of receipt.
Read full return policy
Payment
Secure transaction
Your transaction is secure
We work hard to protect your security and privacy. Our payment security system encrypts your information during transmission. We don’t share your credit card details with third-party sellers, and we don’t sell your information to others. Learn more
Payment
Secure transaction
We work hard to protect your security and privacy. Our payment security system encrypts your information during transmission. We don’t share your credit card details with third-party sellers, and we don’t sell your information to others. Learn more
$12.25
Item in good condition. Textbooks may not include supplemental items i.e. CDs, access codes etc... Item in good condition. Textbooks may not include supplemental items i.e. CDs, access codes etc... See less
$3.98 delivery May 15 - 16. Details
Only 1 left in stock - order soon.
$$18.99 () Includes selected options. Includes initial monthly payment and selected options. Details
Price
Subtotal
$$18.99
Subtotal
Initial payment breakdown
Shipping cost, delivery date, and order total (including tax) shown at checkout.
Access codes and supplements are not guaranteed with used items.
Ships from and sold by glenthebookseller.
Amazon book clubs early access
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Amazon book clubs early access

Join or create book clubs

Choose books together

Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
Explore Amazon Book Clubs
Kindle app logo image

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

QR code to download the Kindle App

Follow the author

Paul Michael Peters
+ Follow
More books from this author
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.

The Symmetry of Snowflakes Paperback – March 19, 2015

by Paul Michael Peters (Author)
3.9 3.9 out of 5 stars 187 ratings
See all formats and editions
{"desktop_buybox_group_1":[{"displayPrice":"$18.99","priceAmount":18.99,"currencySymbol":"$","integerValue":"18","decimalSeparator":".","fractionalValue":"99","symbolPosition":"left","hasSpace":false,"showFractionalPartIfEmpty":true,"offerListingId":"p%2FK%2BspoCc0KGpy3rv5E8z%2FsP8%2F9xymibnekOpWu9Qdxig7ubAe3sinq4RQYvuN5kokbxBlIIENBT4w0eAlFxzDn5D4EB5Ueq9gs71Cci9vW44NfVnNGEhVgy5lFGuvH5%2FMtiyZ6k3qyfwDoqZbaIIQ%3D%3D","locale":"en-US","buyingOptionType":"NEW","aapiBuyingOptionIndex":0}, {"displayPrice":"$12.25","priceAmount":12.25,"currencySymbol":"$","integerValue":"12","decimalSeparator":".","fractionalValue":"25","symbolPosition":"left","hasSpace":false,"showFractionalPartIfEmpty":true,"offerListingId":"p%2FK%2BspoCc0KGpy3rv5E8z%2FsP8%2F9xymib2sc98zIfz28tqTkmWPv4RwuBamDUR8isP8SINhESEKU1gq%2FvCuTuNl7WySrCMafZGr%2FpzYlCfKn6xKVu8A%2FQpkiR0Dd6BWcvyNPWKb9i39IMeRjYpx3wGkzIxxqrKGGoARquI%2BEKa1eabnvTBWzRbauA3TkYmaZM","locale":"en-US","buyingOptionType":"USED","aapiBuyingOptionIndex":1}]}

Purchase options and add-ons

Hank Hanson’s family is not only blended; it’s pulverized by the weight of its own perfect symmetry

Step into "The Symmetry of Snowflakes," a journey through the intricate and delicate nature of relationships, mirrored in the uniqueness of snowflakes. At its heart is Hank Hanson, whose seemingly perfect life hides deep-seated turmoil from a family reshaped by multiple divorces and remarriages. His life's predictable pattern of Thanksgiving visits changes course upon meeting Erin Contee, who appears as the missing piece in his complex puzzle. Yet, as they grow closer, Erin's hidden past looms, threatening to disrupt the fragile beauty of their budding relationship.

The story tenderly navigates the complexities of blended families, the quest for personal identity amidst disorder, and the transformative power of love and forgiveness. Through Hank's eyes, readers traverse the poignant growth of relationships, seeing reflections of their own struggles and triumphs. Anchored in the relatable backdrop of Michigan, "The Symmetry of Snowflakes" touches the heart of anyone who recognizes the deep, sometimes painful beauty of profound connections. It's a narrative that unfolds the themes of love, redemption, and the intricate, fragile bonds that unite us, inviting readers into a world where each relationship is as distinct and delicate as a snowflake itself.

Read more Read less
Previous page
  1. Print length
    265 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publication date
    March 19, 2015
  4. Dimensions
    6 x 0.6 x 9 inches
  5. ISBN-10
    1505693691
  6. ISBN-13
    978-1505693690
  7. See all details
Next page
Amazon First Reads | Editors' picks at exclusive prices

Editorial Reviews

Review

KIRKUS REVIEW"THE AUTHOR PACES HIS STORY WELL AND OFFERS SOME PITHY IMAGES ""A NOVEL WITH SOME NICE MOMENTS THAT OFFERS AN EFFECTIVE EXAMINATION OF COMPLICATED FAMILY TIES"

"I was pleasantly surprised. This goes W-A-Y beyond romantic silliness and turns out to be a fairly involving look at family relationships. For it seems, Hank's dad, who has been a pretty big rat in the past, desperately needs Hank's help. Just to complicate matters, the old man is now married to the first girl Hank's brother ever loved. And she's now making eyes at Hank.""I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was not what I expected at all. I was expecting a mushy gushy romance but instead I got something very real and raw. It wasn't all butterflies and rainbows between Hank and Erin, there were also some surprising twists on almost every page!""The way he talks about snowflakes in the beginning of this book had me amazed. There is so much depth to Paul Michael Peters writing. Being in Michigan myself and having a mixed up family, I can definitely relate to his journey.""Honestly, I loved it! Its a wonderful story about relationships, mistakes in life, making up and moving on."

About the Author

Top-selling author Paul Michael Peters is an American writer best known for his take on the quirky tangents and morals of contemporary life and his recent novel, Insensible Loss.

His upcoming novel, Combustible Punch, is a thriller scheduled for release in 2019 that explores the psychological dance between that most unlikely of odd couples: a serial killer and a high school shooting survivor.

Stay up to date with Peters' latest book releases and author news by visiting his website, where you can sign up for the newsletter as well as find more short stories and other online content.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (March 19, 2015)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 265 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1505693691
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1505693690
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.03 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.6 x 9 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    3.9 3.9 out of 5 stars 187 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters

Brief content visible, double tap to read full content.
Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

Paul Michael Peters is an acclaimed American author, masterfully weaving narratives that traverse the realms of thrillers, suspense, and the beautifully unexpected. Renowned for his adeptness at crafting compelling twists and delving into life's quirky tangents, he invites readers into worlds both startlingly dystopian and intimately human.

His upcoming works for June 2024 promise to further cement his reputation. 'Right Hand of the Resistance' is a riveting political science fiction thriller set against a backdrop of a dystopian border crisis, challenging the very essence of the golden rule. Meanwhile, 'Mist and Moonbeams: Stories from the Great Lakes Edge' is a collection of enchanting short stories, each a tribute to the majesty and mystery of the Great Lakes. His first non-fiction work, “Business Advice for Emerging Leaders: Mastering Core Principles with Truisms and Actionable Worksheets.”

Paul Michael Peters recent offerings include 'Broken Objects,' a poignant historical fiction narrative following Linnea Karlsson’s coming-of-age during the Gilded Age, and 'Combustible Punch,' a thriller that explores the psychological entanglement between a serial killer and a high school shooting survivor. His portfolio also boasts titles like 'The Symmetry of Snowflakes' and 'Insensible Loss,' each a testament to his narrative versatility and depth.

Dive deeper into the worlds created by Paul Michael Peters by signing up for our newsletter. As a welcome gift, you'll receive a complimentary copy of "Mr. Memory and Other Stories of Wonder," offering a glimpse into the extraordinary experiences that define his work. Join us on a journey through stories that resonate with the intricacies of the human spirit and the shadows of the unknown.

#PaulMichaelPeters

#ThrillerAuthor

#SuspenseStories

#UnexpectedTwists

#DystopianFiction

#GreatLakesStories

#RightHandOfTheResistance

#MistAndMoonbeams

#HistoricalFictionFan

#PsychologicalThrills

#SerialKillerFiction

#AmericanWriters

#GildedAgeNovel

#ShortStoryCollection

#NewReleases2024

Customer reviews

3.9 out of 5 stars
3.9 out of 5
187 global ratings

Top reviews from the United States

Stacey
5.0 out of 5 stars You really need to read this book!
Reviewed in the United States on April 5, 2015
Verified Purchase
I'm not quite sure how best to describe The Symmetry of Snowflakes. It's not a love story, but at it's heart, it's about the complexity of relationships. To me, this wasn't necessarily about Hank & Erin. What it was about was Hank's relationship with his dad. Let's face it...we really are the sandwich generation. Hank works on his relationship with his father in a way I find admirable. Although he makes many, many mistakes, he comes to realize it's about the effort. Now, as for Hank and Erin....Let me just say that if I found a man like Hank, who could forgive such big stuff, I'd hold on tight, with both hands and never let go.

I'm going to be honest and say that this book made me feel so many emotions. I cried on page 4.... if you've ever spent a holiday alone, pondering your life choices, you might too. I felt for Hank as he dealt with family drama. I guess for me, the most relatable part of this whole book was how complex all relationships are, and how they can grow and evolve over time.

If you are from Michigan, you'll appreciate the hometown touches - the Lions Thanksgiving Day game at Ford Field, Zingerman's Roadhouse (best mac & cheese ever!), downriver, and of course, Tigers opening Day. Do yourself a favor, download this book NOW, and lose yourself in a wonderful story. You won't regret it.
7 people found this helpful
Helpful
 Report
Robin Surface
4.0 out of 5 stars Families ... what are ya gonna do?
Reviewed in the United States on May 4, 2015
Verified Purchase
I think it was telling that the main character is the only one in his group that doesn’t have a nickname; he’s always just Hank Hanson. It seemed like until he met a woman who actually gave him one, he hadn’t really come into his own but was only doing what he thought was right.

Hank’s snowflake shaped family tree keeps him busy and confuses his friends and the new people he meets. He has such a convoluted family that he assigns the members various number designations so he can keep them straight.

While Hank seems to be slightly used and abused by his family and their demands on his time, he is also basically a good guy who endeavors to do what’s expected of him and tries to keep the peace in his odd family.

This is a book about relationships and at times it is poignant and at others it’s nearly infuriating, especially when Hank takes pity on his father even when history and the rest of the people in his life advise against it.

Ultimately, Hank ends up doing something that’s not so nice, which makes him more human but nearly loses what he desires most.

The author's use of snowflakes throughout was an interesting touch, and related to the text well.

This book is well written and hits on lots of emotional points of life in an overly extended family. It was a thoroughly entertaining read.
6 people found this helpful
Helpful
 Report
SB
3.0 out of 5 stars Hints of great writing
Reviewed in the United States on October 21, 2015
Verified Purchase
Overall, this was a good read. Main character has many layers, and I liked him, for the most part. I started out really liking Hank, as he was quirky, but smart in business and confused when it comes to love. He seems dedicated to his very dysfunctional extended family, which comes off as endearing. Then, there is with a sweet first random meeting of boy and girl. Suddenly, it seems that the author lets Hank become what all men dream to be...wanted by all/many women. A few parts where this occurred had me rolling my eyes, and thinking, "Give me a break..." So Hank goes from nice guy to shady guy to untrustworthy guy.

That's when the story kind of gets off track. And the ending feels too fast and doesn't feel emotional enough. It's like the author needed to end the book and wasn't quite sure how to do so. All in all, the story is a bit unbalanced, as if the main character can't really decide who he is.
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
 Report
Susan R. Beyer
5.0 out of 5 stars Worth the read
Reviewed in the United States on September 28, 2015
Verified Purchase
This is the second book of Paul Michael Peter's I have read. I liked "Peter in Flight" more - however, I think that is because I could better relate to the character. However, I still give this a 5 star rating as it kept me engrossed and I really wanted to find out how it turned out. The book really showed that even after you make mistakes (which we all do) you are a good person and friends and family are able to forgive you your humanness. Definitely recommend this book.
Helpful
 Report
Catherine Grainger
4.0 out of 5 stars Very thought provoking
Reviewed in the United States on April 27, 2015
Verified Purchase
The Symmetry of Snowflakes by Paul Michael Peters
Symmetry of Snowflakes is an insider’s look at the life and relationships of one Hank Hanson, a Michigan man with a lot of ex-step-parents. The story follows him through a Thanksgiving of trying to see his entire, and entirely complex, blended family, and his attempts to navigate those relationships, and the potential for something more with a woman he meets at a parade. The story, and Hank, is one that resonates with almost anyone. Even through Hanks failings, the reader can still see a bit of themselves in him, and his wish for love. The motif of snowflakes as a metaphor for relationships, each one unique and fragile, is woven throughout.
The writing style is charming and eloquent, and anything but simple. The characters are well rounded and interesting. The plot of the story keeps the reader interested, invested, and hopeful. It is a very charming read, and the snowflake motif is an intriguing one.
Helpful
 Report
Teila Smith
2.0 out of 5 stars If you like books which offer a window into other people's lives
Reviewed in the United States on December 31, 2015
Verified Purchase
I wish I could give this book more stars. It isn't the author's fault, really. It reads well and was interesting enough for me to finish it, but it simply isn't my preferred reading material. This is similar to how I remember Nicholas Spark's novels reading (it's been a while so don't hold me to that), and it does have a couple of "explicit" sex scenes, but that should be expected, given the plot. If you like books which offer a window into other people's lives, this book is for you.
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
 Report
Kindle Customer
3.0 out of 5 stars Interesting Allegory
Reviewed in the United States on August 23, 2015
Verified Purchase
It was an interesting, though meandering story about a man and his relationships with his friends, family, and a girlfriend. It is well written but I was not in the mood for all the introspection.
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
 Report

Top reviews from other countries

Denise Baer
2.0 out of 5 stars A Checklist of Errors
Reviewed in Germany on December 8, 2016
Verified Purchase
I love the title and book cover. I bought the paperback. I waited for a cozy time to start reading. I had to stop reading. Normally, I don’t write reviews for books I don’t finish but I felt compelled to do so with this one since I spent the money. Since I’m certain the writing isn’t going to improve, I stopped at page 34. The writing style is similar to a checklist of things to do. “I can see the gang at the table near the front of the bar, which is clean, dimly lit, and warm inside. They saved me a seat by the crackling hearth, and a drink waits. My friends are lifelong. I have known them since college…I only wish I could find a woman to love me who is equally amazing.” (Page 5) Up until page 34, this is about the most descriptive Peters gets.

The main character, Hank, is making several Thanksgiving stops to visit various family members. Instead of the author allowing the reader to experience the relationships through show and dialogue, we’re told of insignificant stuff. “This is something I am still not accustomed to, having staff, especially on a holiday, though I do suspect many people are looking for additional money this time of year.” (Page 24) This serves no purpose. First, he doesn’t need to get accustom to holiday staff because he’s just visiting. Second, it doesn’t move the story along. The rest of page 24 goes on about his business, how he conducts his business, and his relationship to P5. Description and interaction with P5 would have been better than Hank telling me about him.

Then there are several “I can hear the [anger] [pride]” on pages 31 to 32 instead of describing what’s going on.

I also have to add that there are filler areas using poor dialogue—example on page 32.

The line goes out with a click. I press the speakerphone off, than tap it again to reengage.
“Dial sister.”
“Did you say dial sister?”
“Yes.”
“Ok, dialing sister.”
This is the second time the author inserts dialogue between Hank and his phone system. At the end of page 33, Hank is talking about what his sister says to him. “Be careful,” she says as if I were one of her calves. How does one talk to calves? I’ve tried to visualize this but I can’t.

This book was disappointing because I really wanted to snuggle up with it and enjoy. Instead, the writing and lack of editing got in the way.
Report
Marta Cheng
5.0 out of 5 stars Families Are Complex Creations - Just Like Snowflakes
Reviewed in Canada on April 19, 2015
Verified Purchase
If you’re looking for a book that’s big on action and body count, you won’t find it in The Symmetry of Snowflakes. The only “count” in this book, as it were, has to do with family members, extended family members, family members once or twice removed, departed family members and, well, you get the picture. Snowflakes has heart and integrity, much like the main protagonist of the story, Hank Hanson, who’s the owner of a successful greeting card company. Hailing from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Hank is a nice, unassuming guy with down home values who one would think was the product of the perfect American nuclear family. However, readers quickly learn that Hank’s upbringing was anything but “perfect”. With his parents’ subsequent divorces and remarriages, Hank happens to have a complex family structure of parents, step-parents, ex-step-parents, siblings and half-siblings, requiring him to assign alpha-numeric parental unit numbers based on each parent’s marriage as well as a master plan for visitation during Thanksgiving that is not unlike a well-oiled military maneuver. At twenty-nine, Hank is single but hopeful of finding a good woman to share his life, little expecting to find her at the Thanksgiving Day parade which he impulsively attends – but then life is full of these unexpected surprises. At its core, Snowflakes is about relationships and brings home the fact that in this day and age, families are complex creations – just like a snowflake – that come in all shapes and sizes. Peters’ prose is solid, dependable and comforting like a wonderful piece of warm apple pie on a crisp autumn day. A lovely read!
One person found this helpful
 Report