Book Description
A moving novel about three people who find their way back from loss and loneliness to a different kind of happiness. Arthur, a widow, meets Maddy, a troubled teenage girl who is avoiding school by hiding out at the cemetery, where Arthur goes every day for lunch to have imaginary conversations with his late wife, and think about the lives of others. The two strike up a friendship that draws them out of isolation. Maddy gives Arthur the name Truluv, for his loving and positive responses to every outrageous thing she says or does. With Arthur’s nosy neighbor Lucille, they create a loving and unconventional family, proving that life’s most precious moments are sweeter when shared.
Review
I received an eARC copy of this book from the publisher. Here is my honest review.
The cover of this book made me think of the movie "Up!" which is why I requested it. I find stories that capture the relationship between young people and older people enchanting. Arthur is not a grumpy old man, though he is lonely. He visits the cemetery every day to share lunch with his deceased wife and one day meets a young teen named Maddie who is also starved for connection with people. Arthur reaches out to her and without hesitation invites her into his sphere. She is doubtful of his friendship and invitation to visit anytime; he is quick to reassure that she she should have "come yesterday". Arthur recognizes the need for human interaction in those in his neighborhood and seeks to include them. He opens his home to a troubled teen and a grieving neighbor and the three of them form a unique family that has such a deep bond even though nothing else connects them. It's really magical to experience. Berg has done a masterful job of exploring the ideas of love and acceptance and the gentle caring for each other. This book makes me realize: it really can be this easy to love our neighbors - and what a rich blessing to all involved when we choose to be open and accepting.
Additionally, Berg has some exquisite writing in this novel. She has a way of writing and my heart responds: "Yes, that's exactly how it is/was/feels".
One of my favorite quotes from the book is this: For everything there truly is a season; if his life's work has not taught him that, it has taught him nothing. The birth of spring, the fullness of summer, the push of glory in the fall, the quiet of winter. (location 2279)
Additionally, Berg has some exquisite writing in this novel. She has a way of writing and my heart responds: "Yes, that's exactly how it is/was/feels".
One of my favorite quotes from the book is this: For everything there truly is a season; if his life's work has not taught him that, it has taught him nothing. The birth of spring, the fullness of summer, the push of glory in the fall, the quiet of winter. (location 2279)
I gave this book: ★★★★★
★ = I did not like it ★★ = It was okay ★★★ = I liked it
★★★★ = I really liked it ★★★★★ = I loved it
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