the things we never say

by Elizabeth Strout

One of the many things I love about Strout’s writing is the total lack of judgment for her characters' thoughts and actions. Her latest is wonderful. Crisp, clear, astute, insightful, and absolutely not to be missed. Her prose acts as a steady mirror to the human soul.

The story follows Artie, a teacher nearing retirement, navigating a life and relationship deeply damaged by the tragic loss of a child. Meanwhile, the world changes rapidly around him, spinning out of control under the weight of turbulent US politics. Strout perfectly captures that overwhelming feeling of watching the news and wondering how we are supposed to keep functioning when the social fabric feels so fragile.

She handles Artie’s grief, isolation, and quiet confusion with her signature grace, delivering a beautifully quiet, deeply moving masterpiece. Rather than offering easy answers, she uncovers the profound beauty in our everyday struggles to connect. A striking and timely reminder of our shared humanity in fractured times.