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 of Crosby, Maine, 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 her husband, 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.
My take: 5 looks
Loved, loved, loved this one. Presented in the form of thirteen short stories, all present a different perspective of the main character, Olive Kitteridge. Written in fluid detail, Olive infuriated, mesmerized, shocked, disappointed, impressed, and touched me. What a beautifully drawn character! To be so multidimensional from the written page puts Elizabeth Strout on my list of favorite authors.
Highly recommended.
I have been wanting to read this one. Its been on my list for a long time now.
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