"Oh William!" by Elizabeth Strout

"Oh William!" is the third book written by Elizabeth Strout that features the character of Lucy Barton. Previously seen in the novels "I am Lucy Barton" and "Anything Is Possible," Barton is clearly a favorite of the author. Pulitzer Prize-winner Strout is perhaps best known for her two books featuring another fan favorite, Olive Kittredge. In this new book, Strout takes Lucy on a journey in which she re-kindles her friendship with her first husband, William, after her second husband has died.  Like her other books featuring Lucy, "Oh, William" centers around the themes of family, loss, relationships and disappointments. Strout is a sparse yet impactful writer who eschews flowery language, and instead empowers her characters with the ability to speak like humans actually speak. There are awkward pauses and uncomfortable silences just like in real life. This is not a fairy tale but rather a look back on the relationship Lucy had with William, and the two daughters they raised together. When William's third wife abruptly leaves him, he turns to Lucy for comfort. The two then travel platonically to Maine together to meet William's long lost half-sister. The trip brings up memories they shared together, both good and bad. Lucy reminisces that William was one of the few people who really could make her laugh, and it is only after divorcing him, that she has come to realize his importance in her life. In turn, Lucy seems like a true gift to William, supporting him when he has lost his way. As a divorced woman, I found the healing that time brought quite touching.  "Oh, William!" is another must read Strout book, and a book infused with the quirky characters who inhabit her special island of literary fiction. To buy this book on Amazon click here.