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shareen17's review
4.0
My judgment of this book is clouded by the fact that I decided to read this book based on it being on a list of novels about happiness; however, I don't really agree with that assessment. The most optimistic theme I could get from the book is that life is a mixture of happiness, pain, and random awfulness. Or maybe to have love and friendship in our lives we have to accept that people are flawed. I like the writing in this book. I like that it isn't about some extraordinary happenings but everyday people and life. It made me think, which is always part of a good book.
asipior's review
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
waynediane's review
5.0
The writing is beautiful. Great descriptions, character development, and the love and long lasting friendships in good and bad times.
suedd's review
5.0
Stegner's sense of place is as important as his characters...intertwined with them. From UW Madison to the eastern family vacation compound, I felt immersed in the unfolding of the two couples' lives. I thoroughly enjoyed the detailed and leisurely pace of the writing, mimicking the ebbs and flows of lifelong friendships. Will be reading more of Stegner's work...perhaps some of his conservation writings.
acmccloskey's review
5.0
How had I not read any Wallace Stegner before this?! I am now on a mission to read all of his novels.
tuabaxl's review
4.0
Loved this story that rawly explored relationships, friendships with a pristine beauty.
roseleaf24's review against another edition
3.0
A bit too quiet for my taste at the moment, and way too much analysis from the narrative voice. Really interesting friendship between two couples from the Depression through the early 70s, but there were some holes left in their story.
hannahshort's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
4+ stars for the quality of the writing and Wallace Stegner's incredible observational skills when it comes to human relationships and character. However, I found myself rather bored by the story at various points. A difficult book for me to rate/review, but I would like to read some more of his work.