What a quirky and eclectic choice we had for October book
club! “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman seemed to come out
of left field but was difficult to put down. Eleanor is such an intriguing character
with such decided opinions and yet a clear inability to fully grasp social
norms, she became a delight to meet in this novel.
The storytelling style is funny and interesting and the
reader may find themselves fully engaged in the details and what will happen to
this clearly damaged, yet resilient character. The story starts out when
Eleanor and a goofy and slightly awkward IT guy, Raymond, from her office end
up helping Sammy, an elderly man who has fallen on the sidewalk. The compassion
and kindness of Raymond is dramatically contrasted to her awkward and distant
sense of self. Their friendship blossoming despite the clear differences, and
then similarities, is beautiful to behold.
The story of what happened to Eleanor in the past and as she
tries to press forward into her future is told in a tightly folded tale that is
both sad and charming. There are sections that are beautifully painful as
depression is described in an honest and heartbreaking way, and the beauty of
true kindness and friendship is on full display. This delightful read was immensely
enjoyed by our group.
“If someone asks you how you are, you are meant to say FINE.
You are not meant to say that you cried yourself to sleep last night because
you hadn't spoken to another person for two consecutive days. FINE is what you
say.”
― Gail Honeyman, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
“Sometimes you simply needed someone kind to sit with you
while you dealt with things.”
― Gail Honeyman, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
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