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35 pages 1 hour read

My Name is Lucy Barton

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Elizabeth Strout

My Name is Lucy Barton

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

193

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1980s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout follows Lucy, a writer, and mother, as she recovers in a New York City hospital. During her stay, her estranged mother visits from rural Illinois, leading to a complex reunion where they navigate their painful pasts without directly acknowledging them, all while Lucy reflects on her childhood, aspirations, and relationships, ultimately finding peace and self-acceptance. Topics include experiences of childhood trauma and familial estrangement.

Emotional

Contemplative

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.7

203,884 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Elizabeth Strout's My Name is Lucy Barton has been lauded for its eloquent prose and deep emotional resonance. Critics praise the nuanced portrayal of complex mother-daughter dynamics and the introspective narrative. Some find the storyline sparse and yearn for more plot development. Overall, Strout's ability to evoke empathy and introspection is widely appreciated.

Who should read this

Who Should Read My Name is Lucy Barton?

Readers who appreciate introspective and emotionally nuanced narratives, akin to those in Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout or Gilead by Marilynne Robinson, will enjoy My Name is Lucy Barton. It's ideal for those drawn to stories of complex familial relationships and personal resilience.

3.7

203,884 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Character List

Lucy Barton

A writer and mother living in New York City with her husband, who faces the challenges of overcoming a traumatic past and developing her identity.

Lucy's husband, who invites her estranged mother to care for Lucy during her hospital stay.

A woman from Amgash, Illinois, who visits Lucy in the hospital, attempting to entertain her with hometown stories while grappling with their strained relationship.

Book Details
Pages

193

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1980s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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