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“the all of it” was recommended by my book club leader, @annebogel who is a very trusted source for all things books. I ordered a NEW book from Amazon and it arrived somewhat worse for the wear. The jacket was wrinkled, worn & beat. For a quick second, I thought about returning it for a book in much better condition but once I read the book, I wanted to keep it…just as it arrived, all battered and tattered. The book’s condition is so fitting for a story that centers around a “widow” who unburdens the circumstances of her life to the local Priest. She won’t go to confession and instead tells her life story as the two hold vigil over the body of the deceased. Enda’s tells the priest the unvarnished truth and he is mesmerized yet judgmental as she retells her life journey. Father Declan (this is set in Ireland) moves between fascination and repulsion to revulsion and then contrition. The change you expect to see in Edna really comes in and through Father Declan. Preconceived thoughts and assigning imaginings of guilt can be destructive. The priest is deeply moved by the story. After the funeral, Father Declan goes fly-fishing, on a day that almost guarantees no fish and in the worst of weather conditions as a form of penance, an earthly hair shirt worn to brush off the guilt of his own sins. The ending is a beautiful finish to a well-told story. The author, Jeannette Haien was in her mid 60’s when she wrote this book and she only wrote one other prior to her passing. Author Ann Patchett has encouraged the re-publication of this 1986 novel for those of us who would not be aware of this gem. Comprising only 145 pages, it is not a hard read, but as Ms. Patchett states, “When well done, a small novel can be even more satisfying than a sweeping epic.” Patchett is correct. I am always impressed by authors who tell a deeply moving story using few words. This book would qualify. The author writes through Edna, “One thing I’ve learned, Father---that in this life it’s best to keep the then and the now and the what’s-to-be as close together in your thoughts as you can.” This book was fabulous & Inspirational. #annpatchett @harperperennial