mellogirl 's review for:

The Shipping News by Annie Proulx

5.0

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When I read this book 20-some years ago, it knocked my socks off: the language, the subtle humor, the bleak-yet-content lifestyle of the characters, Newfoundland as important as a character as the setting. But as with most things in middle age, it just hit differently this time! In a good way. More relatable now that I’m on this side of 40. I admired Quolye and Agnis and Wavey and Dennis & Beety and Jack and Nutbeem and all of these characters so much; I will wonder about them when I look out at the lobster boats this winter. There’s so much warmth and community in this story — a model of people who take care of each other, no matter what. And Quoyle is just such a loveable guy… his evolution from punching bag to beloved friend, editor, lover is simply beautiful.

Still one of my favorite books, and I’ll read it again in 15-20 years.