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Book Review of Olive Kitteridge (Olive Kitteridge, Bk 1)

Olive Kitteridge (Olive Kitteridge, Bk 1)
eadieburke avatar reviewed on + 1613 more book reviews


This book is very thought provoking and I found the author to be very perceptive. It seems that Strout has created a place with a lot of complex characters. I loved the Maine setting with people you could find everywhere.

At times stern, at other times patient, at times perceptive, at other times in sad denial, Olive Kitteridge, a retired schoolteacher, deplores the changes in her little town and in the world at large, but she doesn't always recognize the changes in those around her: a lounge musician haunted by a past romance: a former student who has lost the will to live: Olive's own adult child, who feels tyrannized by her irrational sensitivities; and Henry, who finds his loyalty to his marriage both a blessing and a curse.

As the townspeople grapple with their problems, mild and dire, Olive is brought to a deeper understanding of herself and her life;sometimes painfully, but always with ruthless honesty. Olive Kitteridge offers profound insights into the human condition; its conflicts, its tragedies and joys, and the endurance it requires.

I will look forward to reading more from Elizabeth Strout and would highly recommend this book to those who love stories that will touch your heart.