The Irrational Doorways of Mr. Gerard brings to life a kaleidoscopic relationship: on one side is Arlene Monson, with her daughter Alice and her "found" daughter Andrea; on the other side are their protector, James Bridgeford, and the enigmatic Mr. Gerard.

Bauer's post-modern imagination creates a unique reality, with details from matriarchal religion, modern fine crafts, and a deep understanding of the ways in which children first upset and then reorder the adult world. In the startling dénouement, solved mysteries open new doorways to mark, not an end, but many beginnings.