This is one of the most poignant books I've ever read. There are so many layers - grief, families, self-discovery and music. As the story unfolds, we learn more about Nora - what's in her heart, her mind and especially, her spirit. Her transformation from grieving widow to independent woman mirrors the struggles other people endure after a profound loss. Each character is drawn out as carefully as Nora, the subtleties merging as the novel progresses. Tóibín's narrative is so rich it's almost as if he is painting the Irish landscape on Nora's soul.
Irish literature has always seemed out of reach because of the depth of the narratives, but this story invites the reader in and welcome them to stay and have some tea. This is a beautiful book.
Here's a link to NPR's review: http://www.npr.org/2014/10/11/354592020/a-slow-simmer-of-grief-and-strength-in-nora-webster.
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