Where Nebraska Center for the Book board members share their thoughts about the books they are reading. This month’s review is by Laurie Yocom.
Review of The Correspondent by Virginia Evans.
I just finished the most remarkable book. Generally, I do not love epistolary novels but I adored this book. There is a lost art, it seems, to writing letters in this fast-paced world of ours that is slammed by emails, texts, and snaps. For Sybil Van Antwerp, a 70-something retired lawyer, it is a daily habit, sitting down with her special stationery and writing to all sorts of people, even her neighbor down the street. Throughout the book, you must pay attention to what is happening; I laughed and cried throughout. I especially enjoyed the books she was sharing with all sorts of acquaintances as well as her letters (and their responses!) from several authors as to what she thought of their tomes. The book made me want to pick up my own pen and find those just-right words to send to a multitude of people. I felt a kinship to Sybil that I find I cannot yet put into words, but definitely recommend to readers.