Read book 2 times through.

I think this book was really interesting because it shows one of the many endings in this series. It's very detailed and one of my favorite endings. I like it because the ending because this happened because of a coincidence.

Evil spy school is the best!

At the insistence of her ex, writer Lucy Barton leaves NYC at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and moves with him to a seaside house in Maine. There they spend weeks in lockdown, visiting their children only sporadically. We see pandemic restrictions through their eyes: empty store shelves, masking, washing hands - and clothes after a trip to the grocery store - and distrust of outsiders. As weeks turn to months, each ponders their shared future, their past in NYC, and the complications and unhappy surprises as 2020 becomes 2021. Readers need not have read other Strout novels to enjoy this book, but those who have already met Lucy will appreciate this deep dive into her life.

Fun, cute, sweet, funny!

I read this book because it was an Indie Next pick for May and I wanted to mix it up with a memoir/nonfiction read. I was unfamiliar with the author’s podcast but I loved the idea of a bookseller’s book. I felt like Annie was relatable. I appreciated her perspective on church. Overall, I thought she had a clear voice that will resonate with some but maybe not work for others. I listened to the audiobook on Libby.

I’m personally interpreting this as a metaphor for sudden disability. The way Gregor is hindered in all of his tasks and has to get used to his new body. His family is ashamed of him and keep him locked in his room and they feel relieved when he dies. It’s honestly really sad.

Great book with lots of twist and terns.

This Magic Treehouse book was very informative- covering the harsh conditions and cruelty of the Civil War. Jack and Annie meet Clara Barton and (mild spoiler) a distant ancestor. My 4.5yo thought this book was tragic but interesting.

Great book - great personality! This book really spoke to me as a 57 year old mom of two - it was like being on a long girls weekend with your super-cool, chic, well read and well-spoken best friend!