This post may contain affiliate links which means if you make a purchase through my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend the products I love and trust.
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett Review & Summary
Book Title: Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Number of Pages: 316
Audiobook Narrated by: Meryl Streep
Listening Length: 12 hours and 10 minutes
Goodreads rating: 4.31 (28,606 ratings)
Published in: 2023
Tom Lake Book Summary
Tom Lake opens with Lara’s three daughters returning to the family’s orchard in Northern Michigan.
As they pick cherries under the summer sun, they implore their mother to share the story of Peter Duke, a famous actor, and Lara’s former lover from their days at the Tom Lake theater company.
What follows is a narrative that delves deep into Lara’s past, shedding light on the intricate layers of her life.
BUY NOW ON AMAZON | LISTEN FREE ON AUDIBLE
Praise for Tom Lake
Patchett’s intricate and subtle thematic web…enfolds the nature of storytelling, the evolving dynamics of a family, and the complex interaction between destiny and choice….These braided strands culminate in a denouement at once deeply sad and tenderly life-affirming. Poignant and reflective, cementing Patchett’s stature as one of our finest novelists.”- Kirkus Reviews
A swoony, luminous reminder about the endurance of love and happiness in a broken world.” — Oprah Daily
Fans of The Dutch House and Commonwealth will be more than satisfied with Ann Patchett’s latest novelistic exploration of love and family dynamics.” — Harper’s Bazaar
“A compelling narrative about the secret lives of parents—and how to find happiness in the midst of a long life.” — Time
Quotes from Tom Lake
“There is no explaining this simple truth about life: you will forget much of it. The painful things you were certain you’d never be able to let go? Now you’re not entirely sure when they happened, while the thrilling parts, the heart-stopping joys, splintered and scattered and became something else
Ann Patchett, Tom Lake
We clump together in our sorrow. In joy we may wander off in our separate directions, but in sorrow we prefer to hold hands.”
― Ann Patchett, Tom Lake
“It’s about falling so wildly in love with him—the way one will at twenty-four—that it felt like jumping off a roof at midnight. There was no way to foresee the mess it would come to in the end, nor did it occur to me to care.”
― Ann Patchett, Tom Lake
What was it like?” she asks me again. It was like being a leaf in a river. I fell in and was carried along.”
― Ann Patchett, Tom Lake
Tom Lake The Creative Muggle Review
I found the initial chapters of Tom Lake to be a bit slow-paced and not particularly exciting.
However, as the narrative unfolds, the significance of the Tom Lake setting, with its nostalgic ties to youth, becomes increasingly apparent.
For Lara, this period held transformative power, and its resonance extends to all of us. The book skillfully illustrates how these youthful experiences mold our lives, and I genuinely relished this exploration.
The narrative delves deeply into the theme of love, encompassing romantic love and familial bonds. Patchett’s insights into marriage, parenthood, and the multifaceted nature of love add depth and intrigue to the story. And I absolutely loved the ending!
I opted for the audiobook version solely because of Meryl Streep. I knew it was going to be truly exceptional. And It was right!! I highly recommend experiencing the audiobook.
In summary, Tom Lake left a lasting impression on me. It took me a few hours to realize that I wouldn’t be able to listen to Lara’s memories of Tom Lake or Peter Duke anymore.
The Creative Muggle Rating : ⭐⭐⭐⭐
BUY NOW ON AMAZON | LISTEN FREE ON AUDIBLE
What to read after Tom Lake
If you’ve enjoyed reading Tom Lake by Ann Patchett and are looking for something similar or a new book to explore, here are a few recommendations that share themes of family, relationships, and storytelling
- The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah: This historical novel tells the story of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. It’s a gripping tale of love, sacrifice, and resilience, with strong family bonds at its core.
- The Dutch House by Ann Patchett-If you haven’t already read it, consider exploring another work by Ann Patchett. A family saga that spans five decades and delves into the intricate dynamics of a brother and sister as they navigate their past and present.
- City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert: This is a coming-of-age story set in the vibrant world of the New York City theater.
About the Author Ann Patchett
Ann Patchett is a famous American writer. She writes novels and essays about families, love, and life. Besides writing, she owns a bookstore in Nashville, Tennessee, and helps support small bookshops. Visit the website
Related posts:
31 Tom Lake by Ann Patchett Book Club Questions & Snack Ideas
12 Tom Lake by Ann Patchett Quotes
More book reviews:
The Silent Patient Book Review & Summary
Book Review: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus: Review & Summary
