The Guest Book
The Guest Book
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Brief
496
Novel • Fiction
Maine • 1930s
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Guest Book by Sarah Blake tells the multi-generational story of the Milton family, who navigate love, loss, and societal changes primarily on a small island off the Maine coast. The narrative alternates between the 1930s, when tragedy leads Ogden Milton to buy Crockett's Island for his grieving wife Kitty, and the present day, where their granddaughter Evie struggles with the decision to keep or sell the island, unraveling her family history in the process. Sensitive topics include grief, loss, and prejudice.
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Sarah Blake's The Guest Book intricately captures a family's multigenerational saga, delving into themes of privilege, racism, and legacy. With richly developed characters and eloquent prose, it's praised for its emotional depth and historical context. Some critics note its slow pacing and complex narrative structure, which may challenge readers. Overall, a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Guest Book?
Readers enchanted by multigenerational family sagas, historical narratives, and social intricacies will relish Sarah Blake’s The Guest Book. Ideal for fans of Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere and Amor Towles’ A Gentleman in Moscow, this book provides a vivid exploration of legacy, privilege, and the passage of time.
496
Novel • Fiction
Maine • 1930s
2019
Adult
18+ years
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