I thought I was going to continue to struggle to read this book. It's summer break for my kids, just had a holiday, and lately I've been moody so whenever I get a chance to pick up the book I'd only get a couple of pages or so in and then life demands my time. Anyway, this book is due tomorrow so I had to finish it (library says, "This book cannot be renewed") today and fortunately my kids played to themselves at home and I just read and read. It's actually how I'd like to read a book ... somewhat all at once because as a forgetful person, reading choppily ... well you can imagine ... I might forget something important! Ha ha!!
Moving on, I liked this book. It's charming, funny, and well written. It was fascinating to see Joy's mid-life unfold. In her late 40s, she made an offhand decision to take a job in a small college town in Massachussetts. Quite a move from New York City. Quite a fixer-upper of a house she purchased as well. No worries, Ted to the rescue! A well liked handyman. And before she knows it, Joy befriends colleagues and people around her becomes important in her life and in turn she finally gets the second chance, or third, or fourth ... to make a meaningful life.
Wonderful group of supporting/extra characters as well. The bonding was moving and a nice reminder that friends are blessings in our lives. The ending was not quite what I hoped but it was acceptable. A solid good first novel for this author.
Now I leave you with just one my quoteable: "My point is that others can open the door for you, others can even push you over the threshold, but only you can take up the challenge and commit yourself to doing something with all your heart." pg 167.
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