Olive Kitteridge

This was chosen for our book club so I picked it up and started reading without looking at any comments or reviews. I thoroughly enjoyed the first story and my interest in the characters was building, imaging what future relationships may be developing. As I continued reading, I was waiting for characters that I liked to return to the story, but they were never mentioned again. I felt incomplete when I finished.

I gave it four stars because it is well-written. My recommendation is to be sure you realize it is a series of short stories before you start the book.

It was a great book for a book club, with lots of discussion about Olive and her relationships. Some of our members sympathized with Olive, while one yelled out "She is a horrible woman!" (Sorry, Olive)

This book was not an enjoyable read. I kept waiting for something to happen because the ratings were so good but it was thoroughly boring.

Intriguing women, that Olive Kittredge. Do you love her or hate her bluntness? At times she seems really smart and intuitive or you wonder did she just stumble into it? Regardless, you will be curious and surprised by this series of short stories, that are chronologically told from near and afar of Olive. I normally don't read short stories, but am so glad I did. I enjoyed each story, some stayed with me for a long time. Throughout the book, almost every possible emotion is touched upon, love, fear, disgust, empathy, worry and more. Many of lives drama's are played out in a quirky and creative way.

I'll admit that I am not a fan of short stories, in general. However I thought the idea of profiling an individual from various people's viewpoints was brilliant! Too bad the stories were so dull. I had a hard time sustaining interest in this book, and I really didn't care about any of the characters. Perhaps the author did brilliantly capture small town life for this teacher, but couldn't she have captured the life of someone a bit less monotonous?

I prefer novels, since I like to become involved with the characters of a book. However, I loved this collection. It seemed like reading a novel, but the short stories are perfect for busy people who don't have much time to read. Once I finished the book, I was sad to see it end. Additionally, this book wonderfully captures the different aspects of the stages of life and the intricacies of personalities. Highly recommended.