Who is this book for?
- Readers who enjoy character-driven, introspective family dramas are likely to appreciate Tom Lake.
- The book would appeal to those who like nostalgic stories that explore the complexities of relationships, particularly between mothers and daughters.
- Fans of Ann Patchett's previous works or readers who enjoy gentle, reflective narratives set in small-town America would likely find this book engaging.
- Those interested in stories about the road not taken, the nature of memory, and how our past shapes our present would also be drawn to this novel.
- Additionally, readers who appreciate books that create a strong sense of place, particularly rural settings like the Michigan cherry orchard, would likely enjoy the atmospheric quality of Tom Lake.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- Readers seeking fast-paced plots or high-stakes drama may find Tom Lake too slow or uneventful for their tastes.
- Those who prefer stories with more conflict, tension, or action might be frustrated by the book's reflective, meandering style.
- Readers tired of pandemic-set fiction or those looking for more escapist fare may not enjoy the COVID-19 backdrop.
- Additionally, those who dislike dual timeline narratives or find excessive nostalgia irritating might struggle with the structure and tone of the novel.
- Readers expecting a more traditional romance or those hoping for deeper exploration of the acting world might also be disappointed.
- Finally, those who prefer more ambiguity or complexity in their characters and relationships may find the portrayal of family life overly idealized or simplistic.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Beautiful and moving story about family, love, and growing up
- Excellent character development, especially for the main characters
- Seamless weaving of past and present timelines
- Thoughtful exploration of themes like choices, relationships, and motherhood
- Cozy, warm writing style that creates an absorbing atmosphere
- Compelling narrative about a woman's past as an actress
- Insightful look at family dynamics and mother-daughter relationships
- Nostalgic and reflective tone that resonates with many readers
- Strong sense of place, especially the Michigan cherry orchard setting
- Satisfying and fitting ending that ties the story together well
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Slow pacing that some readers found boring or uneventful
- Lack of conflict or tension in the plot for some
- Overly sentimental or saccharine tone for some readers
- Heavy focus on the play 'Our Town' that not all readers connected with
- Pandemic setting that some felt was unnecessary or poorly handled
- Uneven development of secondary characters
- Predictable plot elements for some readers
- Overuse of the dual timeline structure according to some
- Lack of depth or complexity in the romance storyline for some
- Writing style that some found rambling or unfocused at times
