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A review by siobhanward
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
NYT Notable Books 2023: 19/100
I used to LOVE character-driven books where not a whole lot happened, but evidently that's changed, since I really struggled with this one. I felt like there was no plot but also little to no character development outside of Lara. I knew nothing about any of her daughters, and even less about her husband, all of whom were relevant to the story. Even major events just kind of came and went with a brief mention which made me keep flipping back to make sure I'd actually read what I thought I'd read. I read an essay collection by Patchett a few years ago and it was ok, but maybe her writing style isn't for me.
I used to LOVE character-driven books where not a whole lot happened, but evidently that's changed, since I really struggled with this one. I felt like there was no plot but also little to no character development outside of Lara. I knew nothing about any of her daughters, and even less about her husband, all of whom were relevant to the story. Even major events just kind of came and went with a brief mention which made me keep flipping back to make sure I'd actually read what I thought I'd read. I read an essay collection by Patchett a few years ago and it was ok, but maybe her writing style isn't for me.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Alcoholism, Death, Infidelity, and Sexual content
Minor: Abortion