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272
Novel • Fiction
Amgash, Illinois • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
Anything Is Possible by Elizabeth Strout, a companion to her earlier novel My Name Is Lucy Barton, is a collection of interconnected short stories set primarily in the fictional town of Amgash, Illinois. Through its 10 characters, the novel explores themes of resilience, family, and identity, depicting individuals' unique journeys and their connections with one another amidst personal traumas in an ever-changing yet familiar community. Topics of sexual violence and abuse are present in the narrative.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Emotional
Nostalgic
88,267 ratings
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Drawing on her nuanced storytelling, Elizabeth Strout's Anything Is Possible receives praise for its interwoven narratives and deep character exploration. Critics commend its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of small-town life. Some note a slower pace and occasional disjointedness in the plot. Overall, it's a compelling read that resonates emotionally.
A reader who enjoys intricate, character-driven narratives and interconnected stories will cherish Elizabeth Strout's Anything Is Possible. Fans of Alice Munro's Dear Life or Ann Patchett's Commonwealth will appreciate Strout's nuanced exploration of small-town life and the complexities of human relationships.
88,267 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Pete Barton
Lucy's kind and shy brother who remains in Amgash, living a modest life while dealing with his family’s past and focusing on small joys.
Vicky Barton
Lucy's sister, who works in a difficult job and struggles financially, yet finds fulfillment in helping others and values the community around her.
Patty Nicely
A resident of Amgash who battles depression and self-esteem issues, but is motivated to think positively and pursue a better future.
Mary Mumford
A mother who reconnects with her daughter Angelina in Italy and works on mending their family relationship through forgiveness and understanding.
Angelina Mumford
Mary's daughter, who, through the process of understanding her relationship with her mother, learns to embrace life's challenges.
Charlie Macauley
A Vietnam War veteran struggling with mental health issues and the challenge of expressing love, representing a complex journey toward self-awareness.
Abel Blaine
A sibling who overcame a difficult childhood and found success and confidence by distancing himself from his past and embracing a new life.
Dottie Blaine
Abel's sister, who shares a similar journey of overcoming past challenges and achieving a secure, self-assured existence away from their hometown.
272
Novel • Fiction
Amgash, Illinois • Contemporary
2017
Adult
18+ years
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