A review by helen_nguyen_812
Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk by Kathleen Rooney
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.”