The Things We Never Say

A seemingly quiet book

First time I've read anything byElizabeth Strout. With its quiet cover and small size I expected a quiet little story. I was captured almost immediately, couldn't put the book down, so many heart strings pulled. Loved Artie in the classroom - I'm a teacher- loved Artie full stop. Loved Strout's way with words, nothing fancy, almost banal but put together with such exquisite timing. Beautiful

Dark and illuminating

I don't think Elizabeth Strout has ever written a book that is not worthy of 5 stars. She is a consumate writer, and this book is no exception. It introduces new characters, and is deceptively simple in its style. It is dark, dealing as it does withe the darkness that looms over Trumpian USA. It is illuminating as it uncovers and unfolds the main character in all his human failings and vulnerabilities. It is a superb book, despite its topic.

Deserves 6 stars - it’s such a great book

Elizabeth Strout has delivered 201 pages of brilliant writing with this book. She provides very human insights into what is happening in the USA following on from her earlier novels which are based in very recent times. This one stands alone with new characters. Highly recommended - if you read this you’ll definitely want to go back through her earlier books and consume them all ( preferably in order as many characters repeat through them.) I love her story telling.