The Poet's House: A Novel by Jean Thompson

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

“A closely observed, droll, coming-of-age story . . . An absolute keeper.” —Maureen Corrigan, Fresh Air

"A page-turning narrative with laugh-out-loud scenes, and ultimately a hopeful, affirming book about how words can stir the mystery in us.” —Julia Alvarez, author of Afterlife

A warm and witty story of a young woman who gets swept up in the rivalries and love affairs of a dramatic group of writers.

Carla is stuck. In her twenties and working for a landscaper, she’s been told she’s on the wrong path by everyone—from her mom, who wants her to work at the hospital, to her boyfriend, who is dropping not-so-subtle hints that she should be doing something that matters.

Then she is hired for a job at the home of Viridian, a lauded and lovely aging poet who introduces Carla to an eccentric circle of writers. At first she is perplexed by their predilection for reciting lines in conversation, the stories of their many liaisons, their endless wine-soaked nights. Soon, though, she becomes enamored with this entire world: with Viridian, whose reputation has been defined by her infamous affair with a male poet, Mathias; with Viridian’s circle; and especially with the power of words, the “ache and hunger that can both be awakened and soothed by a poem,” a hunger that Carla feels sharply. When a fight emerges over a vital cache of poems that Mathias wrote about Viridian, Carla gets drawn in. But how much will she sacrifice for a group that may or may not see her as one of their own?

A delightfully funny look at the art world—sometimes petty, sometimes transactional, sometimes transformative— ­The Poet’s House is also a refreshingly candid story of finding one’s way, with words as our lantern in the dark.

my thoughts:

Love, love, love! The Poet's House by Jean Thompson is a fantastic story about love, art, family, and individuality. I absolutely enjoyed every second I spent reading this amazing book - talk about a must-read!

Carla's in her twenties and everyone is telling her what she should be doing with her life, while she isn't really sure.  She's a landscaper and her latest job is for Viridian, a famous poet.  Whilst working at Viridian's home, Carla finds herself immersed in a different setting - one in which artists talk in quotes and discuss literature over wine.  She becomes enmeshed with this new crowd and let's just say, her world opens up in ways she never imagined. Of course, DRAMA sneaks in and soon life becomes difficult once more. And that is all I will write about the story.  Aside from the fact that you should read it ASAP - its chock full of quirky characters, relatable issues, and top notch writing. The Poet's House is a treat to read and you won't want to miss out on it - check it out!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!