olivia

I had wholly inaccurate expectations of this book when I began it, and, thus, never expected to consider it one of the most enjoyable reads I've had in some time. What a wonderful story, full of wise insights about the internal workings of the human mind. Each character perspective is clearly articulated and defined, and written in such a way that I found myself easily connecting with each of the primary voices.

It's a warm and wonderful tale ... predictable and idealized, yes, but predictable and idealized in the way one wants it to be. I wanted positive outcomes and happiness for these people. It also includes a surprising amount of gentle wit.

It's rare that I give anything five stars, but this was exactly what I needed to read at the right time. I've just been through some personal grief, and this mental escape to San Salvatore did me good, much as it did for Lotty, Rose, Mrs. Fisher, and Caroline.