This is not a page-turner of a book, as the "plot" is not the main ingredient, but is a very good character sketch. I found it easy to understand and empathise with the main character and easily identified with his inner thoughts and monologues. I think the author is extremely good at conveying human strengths and weaknesses. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

In my opinion I thought that this book was beautifully written, and the minor obsevations of the character traits were very well crafted. I was not disappointed by the end, in fact I found it rather touching. It is basically a story of a male teacher, recently made redundant whohas a break-in just after downsizing to a new apartment in Baltimore; and his frustration at not remembering anything of the incident. From this starting point though it goes on to show us his relationship with his family, from his 5-year old grandson to his elderly father. He also goes on to form a romantic relationship but I will let the reader find out how that develops. I was sorry when the book finished and have immediately started reading another Anne Tyler, 'Digging for America'. I think she captures her characters' nuances so well; she rarely disappoints in her novels. I would certainly recommend this book.

I felt very let down by this book, it left me feeling very flat and its content evapourated once I got the finale. The story line was strong and compelling - until- I reached that final chapter and then the whole thing was deflating. I thought the character analyses were interesting and thought provoking, if not slightly melodramatic. I would never not recommend a book, as we all have differing tastes, but would I read another? Now that is a burning question.