best friends and their books

Tracie’s Version

This was my first book from Elizabeth Strout. I didn’t know anything about her, or this book when I picked it up and had no idea it was a series.

Oh William! is about Lucy, a writer, and her ex-husband William. They do have two adult daughters together after all and they had always found a way to coparent in a way that never seemed to break their family ties.

When they are both unexpectedly alone, they turn to each other. Not to rekindle their romantic relationship but to rekindle their friendship. This story has multiple story lines showing that even though life brings people apart, memories run deep and truly hold people together.

I enjoyed this read for being something much different than I usually read. For example, Lucy was in her 60s and is in a completely different part of her life than I currently am.

Strout’s writing is exquisite, but much different than I am use to. There are no chapters, but more of an ongoing essay. It’s simplistic writing with pretty complex themes.

The main character, Lucy, is the mom, wife, friend, we all need. She’s smart, empathetic, charming, nurturing and I really loved her.

I really would have enjoyed a little more of a punch in the end. But overall enjoyed this book.