Play Book Tag discussion

A very quiet novella that is extremely moving.

Honestly, this book spoke to me personally on a lot of levels. Others may relate to it differently though I felt that the way it is written, perhaps the reader fills in the blanks with their own experiences. Or one may relate to certain aspects more than others.

Lucy is ill in a New York City hospital, and her recovery necessitates a rather lengthy stay. Her estranged mother comes to stay with her. Lucy reveals herself through her interactions and discussions with her mother and her reflections upon her marriage and burgeoning writing career.

The writing is very simple and straightforward. The reader is not spoon fed, and there isn't a big plot.

But honestly, if you've ever felt pain from childhood that has carried over into your adult life - - you will most likely relate to this book.

This book isn't entertainment. It isn't the type of story that sucks you in and holds you tight. It's more of a kernel of truth. Truth about life.

As Lucy's daughter says to her:

Mom, when you write a novel you get to rewrite it, but when you live with someone for twenty years, that is the novel, and you can never write that novel with anyone again.

Very nice! I felt there was so much of Strout as a writer that was revealed in this. And yet, maybe there wasn't and I just thought so.

A real life friend and I discussed the book and she was exasperated that we didn't know why Lucy had to spend so much time in the hospital. I thought maybe she had a staph infection.

I forgot to post my review, will have to do it when I am home later.

Nice review, I just connect to her writing on numerous levels.

Nice review

Linda S wrote: "I forgot to ost my review, will have to do it when I am home later.

Nice review, I just connect to her writing on numerous levels."

Would love to see your review, Linda. I do love her writing. This is my second read by her, but I'm going to try to get to her other books.

Elizabeth (Alaska) wrote: "A real life friend and I discussed the book and she was exasperated that we didn't know why Lucy had to spend so much time in the hospital. I thought maybe she had a staph infection. .."

It certainly was awhile in the hospital which is not really the norm these days (where the hospital just wants to get everyone out lol). However, I really didn't think that was important to the story. I think a staph infection is as good a reason as any!

Jen wrote: "Nice review"

Thanks, Jen!!

I will be reading this one at some point, I like Strout's writing.

Anita wrote: "Elizabeth (Alaska) wrote: "A real life friend and I discussed the book and she was exasperated that we didn't know why Lucy had to spend so much time in the hospital. I thought maybe she had a stap..."

I was in the hospital for 3 months last year after I was diagnosed with leukemia. When they did release me, the plan was for me to go to assisted living for 3 months then return to the hospital for at least 2 months. Fortunately I did well enough as an out-patient, and with assisted living, that I didn't have to go back except for 2 weeks near the end of the year when my body held a little rebellion.

I really liked Olive Kitteridge and I remember recommending it to everyone who would listen the year I read. For some reason I haven't read Strout since, but I think I would also find a lot to relate to in Lucy Barton. I've downloaded both the Kindle and audio editions from my library.

Margarette wrote: "I was in the hospital for 3 months last year after I was diagnosed with leukemia. "

I'm glad it appears they treated it successfully!

Agreed Elizabeth. Thanks for sharing Margarette.

Also, a great review! I've been planning to read this as part of my goal to read as many Bailey Women's Prize for Fiction longlist nominees as I can. Now I'm eager for this. Especially if it's a shorter read, hahah