lindsayhotrod's review against another edition
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
There’s a lot going on in this book besides an octogenarian walking around NYC one cold NYE. While reading this book, I kept finding myself telling little anecdotes from Lillian’s life to people IRL like “I’m reading this box about this old woman, and get a load of this thing that happens…” I liked this book for a lot of reasons, but what I really loved was the evolving narrative structure that braided the (relative) present with the past in ways that feel familiar at first, but become much more complex and human as we reach the middle periods between the beginning and end of these time periods. What starts as an enjoyable but lighter “independent working gal in the big city!” keeps twisting to crack Lillian and her backstory open a little more, and then a little more, so that by the end, Lillian is somehow both a completely different person than you think she is at the beginning, and yet has been so crisply drawn that it all makes perfect sense. For all the ways it’s clear she is an unusual woman, there is a lot of relatable resonance expressed through often very poignant phrasing. The wordplay and language love throughout delighted the hell out of me, but importantly, moved past a gimmick or being too clever for its own good when balance shifts and the writing takes a turn towards sadness or brilliance, and guts you before you see it coming.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicide attempt
taralmassie's review against another edition
funny
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
saara_ilona_muu's review against another edition
adventurous
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
luannocracy's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
reflective
fast-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? Yes
5.0
kittykornerlibrarian's review against another edition
5.0
I hesitate to label a book where much of the action takes place in 1984 as "historical fiction" but there's so much flashback to New York in the 1930s, 40s, 50s, and 60s that I feel justified in sticking to this. Lillian Boxfish, age 85 (depending on whether she's lying about her age) is spending her New Year's Eve on the one activity that makes her feel joy... walking around the streets of Manhattan. She looks back on her earlier self in a poignant way and her interactions with contemporary New Yorkers are fresh and engaging. Lillian's career in advertising and as a poet informs much of her past. I enjoy the verses that appear in the book. Now I want to find out much more about Margaret Fishback. I adored the voice of this strong, smart, funny woman.
pjkerrison's review against another edition
5.0
Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk in NYC.
That’s it.
Years ago I read and loved the Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry so when I first heard of this book my line of thinking was, well, maybe this might fall into that category of storytelling.
All in all it seems to me a pretty simple idea.
But, it’s not simple. It is far from simple. It is moving and it is fun and it is sweet and it is heartbreaking and it is witty and above all – like our protagonist - it is very very smart.
This is a beautiful, multilayered journey that covers two miles and 84 (85 if we are being honest) years of the life of an extraordinary woman who – for the most part – lived a full and marvelous life.
Her name is Lillian Boxfish and in the 1930’s she was the highest paid ad-writing female in America. She met someone, fell in love, got married, and got pregnant. Conventional thinking of the times would have you believe that is the proper order of life. It was expected. What was also expected was a woman leaving her job to become a mother regardless of successes, status and/or income. Sure, she continued to write poetry, advertising copy, greeting cards, four line limericks leaving the fifth to be decided by readers and a magazine’s editor. But in the 1930’s and 40’s a woman’s place was in the home raising her children.
Lillian was so much more than “just a mother,” and I use the word “just” with consternation as there is likely no greater role on this earth than that of a loving parent.
But Lillian was so much more than a stay at home Mom. Hell, she was so much more than most.
My God, she was beautiful and to this day I still have no true idea of what she looks like. Author Kathleen Rooney may have described her appearance early on but for one reason or another, it escapes me. It is not important anyway, because all I see when I close my eyes and think of Lillian Boxfish is a brilliant, sharp witted, curious, open minded, willing and at times, a troubled soul with whom I’d find love to have a glass of wine with....or a bottle.
She, like all amazingly beautiful people, has a multitude of flaws. I will not give anything away, of course, but suffice it to say there was a period in her life when she came face-to-face with a bleak moment. As much of an impact as that time was, and how it continued to construct the person she was to become years after, she never lost that way about her. By that, I mean there was this way where she would give you reasons to never forget her.
She was - she is - memorable.
We found this to be true in several instances. Along this two-mile walk we meet bohemians and store clerks, chauffeurs and artists, parents-to-be and a Vietnam vet security guard; a welcoming family at dinner and a scene with three criminal’s that may be the book’s funniest moment.
Oh, I assure you, Lillian Boxfish’s walk in New York City may seem simple from the outset, and Amazon.com book summary, but it is far from it … unless you want to say it is simply lovely. Then you would be withing your rights to use an alternate form of the word. From the time you first crack the binding open, to the moment you close the book, press it against your chest, breathe in deep, wrap your arms around it, you will find yourself so very please you have met, and spent this New Year’s Eve with, the remarkable - the oh so very memorable - Lillian Boxfish.
so I say buy this book. Support this author. This is the very reason why we read books and Lillian is someone you will want to get to know.
She is, simply, lovely.
Words I learned while reading: One of my favorite parts of reading is constantly learning words I have either (a) never heard before (b) words I have heard and possess only a vague understanding of their meaning based on the context in which they’ve been written and (c) the most frustrating of the lot - the words I know I know the meaning of until I actually look them up to ensure I am correct only to learn I misunderstood it's true meaning. That last lot have an * beside them. Here is the contribution that I received from Kathleen Rooney's Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk.
Contralto - the lowest female singing voice - Vanitas - a still-life painting of a 17th-century Dutch genre containing symbols of death or change as a reminder of their inevitability - Insouciance * (inˈso͞osēəns,) - casual lack of concern; indifference. - Stentorian - (of a person's voice) loud and powerful. - Enjambments - (in verse) the continuation of a sentence without a pause beyond the end of a line, couplet, or stanza. - Housmanian - reference to an English classical scholar and poet. - Unfraught - not burdened. - Egalitarian - relating to or believing in the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities. - Petulant* - (of a person or their manner) childishly sulky or bad-tempered. - Joie de vivre (ˌZHwä də ˈvēvrə/)* - exuberant enjoyment of life. - Oleaginous (ˌōlēˈajənəs)- rich in, covered with, or producing oil; oily or greasy AND exaggeratedly and distastefully complimentary; obsequious. "Candidates made the usual oleaginous speeches in the debate." - Poniard (ˈpänyərd/) - a small, slim dagger. - Endemic* - (of a disease or condition) regularly found among particular people or in a certain area. "Areas where malaria is endemic." - Flanerie (ˌflän(ə)ˈrē/) - aimless idle behavior.
-
That’s it.
Years ago I read and loved the Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry so when I first heard of this book my line of thinking was, well, maybe this might fall into that category of storytelling.
All in all it seems to me a pretty simple idea.
But, it’s not simple. It is far from simple. It is moving and it is fun and it is sweet and it is heartbreaking and it is witty and above all – like our protagonist - it is very very smart.
This is a beautiful, multilayered journey that covers two miles and 84 (85 if we are being honest) years of the life of an extraordinary woman who – for the most part – lived a full and marvelous life.
Her name is Lillian Boxfish and in the 1930’s she was the highest paid ad-writing female in America. She met someone, fell in love, got married, and got pregnant. Conventional thinking of the times would have you believe that is the proper order of life. It was expected. What was also expected was a woman leaving her job to become a mother regardless of successes, status and/or income. Sure, she continued to write poetry, advertising copy, greeting cards, four line limericks leaving the fifth to be decided by readers and a magazine’s editor. But in the 1930’s and 40’s a woman’s place was in the home raising her children.
Lillian was so much more than “just a mother,” and I use the word “just” with consternation as there is likely no greater role on this earth than that of a loving parent.
But Lillian was so much more than a stay at home Mom. Hell, she was so much more than most.
My God, she was beautiful and to this day I still have no true idea of what she looks like. Author Kathleen Rooney may have described her appearance early on but for one reason or another, it escapes me. It is not important anyway, because all I see when I close my eyes and think of Lillian Boxfish is a brilliant, sharp witted, curious, open minded, willing and at times, a troubled soul with whom I’d find love to have a glass of wine with....or a bottle.
She, like all amazingly beautiful people, has a multitude of flaws. I will not give anything away, of course, but suffice it to say there was a period in her life when she came face-to-face with a bleak moment. As much of an impact as that time was, and how it continued to construct the person she was to become years after, she never lost that way about her. By that, I mean there was this way where she would give you reasons to never forget her.
She was - she is - memorable.
We found this to be true in several instances. Along this two-mile walk we meet bohemians and store clerks, chauffeurs and artists, parents-to-be and a Vietnam vet security guard; a welcoming family at dinner and a scene with three criminal’s that may be the book’s funniest moment.
Oh, I assure you, Lillian Boxfish’s walk in New York City may seem simple from the outset, and Amazon.com book summary, but it is far from it … unless you want to say it is simply lovely. Then you would be withing your rights to use an alternate form of the word. From the time you first crack the binding open, to the moment you close the book, press it against your chest, breathe in deep, wrap your arms around it, you will find yourself so very please you have met, and spent this New Year’s Eve with, the remarkable - the oh so very memorable - Lillian Boxfish.
so I say buy this book. Support this author. This is the very reason why we read books and Lillian is someone you will want to get to know.
She is, simply, lovely.
Words I learned while reading: One of my favorite parts of reading is constantly learning words I have either (a) never heard before (b) words I have heard and possess only a vague understanding of their meaning based on the context in which they’ve been written and (c) the most frustrating of the lot - the words I know I know the meaning of until I actually look them up to ensure I am correct only to learn I misunderstood it's true meaning. That last lot have an * beside them. Here is the contribution that I received from Kathleen Rooney's Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk.
Contralto - the lowest female singing voice - Vanitas - a still-life painting of a 17th-century Dutch genre containing symbols of death or change as a reminder of their inevitability - Insouciance * (inˈso͞osēəns,) - casual lack of concern; indifference. - Stentorian - (of a person's voice) loud and powerful. - Enjambments - (in verse) the continuation of a sentence without a pause beyond the end of a line, couplet, or stanza. - Housmanian - reference to an English classical scholar and poet. - Unfraught - not burdened. - Egalitarian - relating to or believing in the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities. - Petulant* - (of a person or their manner) childishly sulky or bad-tempered. - Joie de vivre (ˌZHwä də ˈvēvrə/)* - exuberant enjoyment of life. - Oleaginous (ˌōlēˈajənəs)- rich in, covered with, or producing oil; oily or greasy AND exaggeratedly and distastefully complimentary; obsequious. "Candidates made the usual oleaginous speeches in the debate." - Poniard (ˈpänyərd/) - a small, slim dagger. - Endemic* - (of a disease or condition) regularly found among particular people or in a certain area. "Areas where malaria is endemic." - Flanerie (ˌflän(ə)ˈrē/) - aimless idle behavior.
-
mattyzmom's review against another edition
5.0
This story was witty, full of charm, and easy to read. I can relate to the character even though I am 40 years her junior. I can see myself being snide and triumphant, stubborn and independent as an older lady. The story was based on Margaret Fishback who was an ad executive for Macy's once upon a time.
A fictional coming of age story that describes Lillian's life from late teens to mid-eighties. The narration is from Lillian's point of view. Her love of New York, her son, and her job that was her identity for so long.
A fictional coming of age story that describes Lillian's life from late teens to mid-eighties. The narration is from Lillian's point of view. Her love of New York, her son, and her job that was her identity for so long.
chloelinrob's review against another edition
4.0
Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk follows an elderly woman, once the darling of Manhattan’s social scene, on a tour of her beloved New York City on New Years Eve 1984 and consequently a tour of her lifetime spent there. Boxfish in her prime was the best advertising woman in the country, a talented poet and adored socialite. Through the course of the book the reader learns of the various occasions that led to her rise and fall, while enjoying her clever wit and candor toward the whole ordeal. My favorite aspect of this story is the author’s creative use of language that is at once humorous and profound, and sent me several times to a dictionary. I also enjoyed the glimpse into the glamorous world of advertising in the early 1900’s and the similarities and differences it has to my own work today. Lillian’s walk leads her to many different people and her encounters provide touching and poignant vignettes of humanity. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read that I recommend with ease.
helen_nguyen_812's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
Rooney's writing style is simply exquisite. She effortlessly weaves together Lilian's past and present, creating a narrative that is both nostalgic and deeply moving. The author's attention to detail is commendable, as she vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells of New York City in the 1930s and beyond. Her ability to transport readers to different eras is truly remarkable.
One of the highlights of this novel is the character of Lilian Boxfish herself. She is a strong, independent woman who defies societal norms and expectations. Lilian's wit, intelligence, and resilience make her an incredibly relatable and inspiring protagonist. As she embarks on her New Year's Eve walk through Manhattan, we are taken on a journey not only through the city but also through Lilian's memories, regrets, and triumphs.
The supporting characters in the book are equally well-developed and add depth to the story. From Lilian's colleagues at R.H. Macy's to the strangers she encounters during her walk, each character brings something unique to the narrative. Rooney expertly explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and the passage of time through these diverse individuals.
"New York City had always been a place where I could be my best self."
The exploration of New York City itself as a character in the novel is another aspect that sets Lilian Boxfish Takes a Walk apart. Rooney captures the essence of the city with such precision that readers can almost feel the energy and vibrancy emanating from its streets. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city becomes a living, breathing entity that shapes Lilian's experiences and influences her journey.
"I love New York on summer afternoons when everyone's away. There's something very sensuous about it—overripe, as if all sorts of funny fruits were going to fall into your hands."
The themes explored in this novel are both universal and timeless. Rooney delves into the complexities of aging, regrets, and the search for meaning in one's life. Through Lilian's introspection and encounters with others, readers are prompted to reflect on their own lives and the choices they have made. The book serves as a reminder that it is never too late to pursue one's dreams or find happiness.
"I'm not sure what I'll do, but—well, I want to go places and see people. I want my mind to grow. I want to live where things happen on a big scale."
In conclusion, Lilian Boxfish Takes a Walk is an exceptional novel that combines beautiful prose, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Kathleen Rooney has crafted a masterpiece that will resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates historical fiction, strong female protagonists, and a deep exploration of human emotions.
“But people have come to make a hobby of detesting the birds, I think, because they’ve come to see that pigeons are much like people: dirty and murmuring, greedy and abundant, flocking in a corpus of such shit and weight that one fears they may permanently deface or crush whatever they congregate on.”
One of the highlights of this novel is the character of Lilian Boxfish herself. She is a strong, independent woman who defies societal norms and expectations. Lilian's wit, intelligence, and resilience make her an incredibly relatable and inspiring protagonist. As she embarks on her New Year's Eve walk through Manhattan, we are taken on a journey not only through the city but also through Lilian's memories, regrets, and triumphs.
The supporting characters in the book are equally well-developed and add depth to the story. From Lilian's colleagues at R.H. Macy's to the strangers she encounters during her walk, each character brings something unique to the narrative. Rooney expertly explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and the passage of time through these diverse individuals.
"New York City had always been a place where I could be my best self."
The exploration of New York City itself as a character in the novel is another aspect that sets Lilian Boxfish Takes a Walk apart. Rooney captures the essence of the city with such precision that readers can almost feel the energy and vibrancy emanating from its streets. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city becomes a living, breathing entity that shapes Lilian's experiences and influences her journey.
"I love New York on summer afternoons when everyone's away. There's something very sensuous about it—overripe, as if all sorts of funny fruits were going to fall into your hands."
The themes explored in this novel are both universal and timeless. Rooney delves into the complexities of aging, regrets, and the search for meaning in one's life. Through Lilian's introspection and encounters with others, readers are prompted to reflect on their own lives and the choices they have made. The book serves as a reminder that it is never too late to pursue one's dreams or find happiness.
"I'm not sure what I'll do, but—well, I want to go places and see people. I want my mind to grow. I want to live where things happen on a big scale."
In conclusion, Lilian Boxfish Takes a Walk is an exceptional novel that combines beautiful prose, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Kathleen Rooney has crafted a masterpiece that will resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates historical fiction, strong female protagonists, and a deep exploration of human emotions.
“But people have come to make a hobby of detesting the birds, I think, because they’ve come to see that pigeons are much like people: dirty and murmuring, greedy and abundant, flocking in a corpus of such shit and weight that one fears they may permanently deface or crush whatever they congregate on.”
amatczynski's review against another edition
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5