This Time Last Year

For readers who appreciate eloquence, the texture of words formed into thoughts and imprinted images, I recommend all of Douglas Hobbie's books, and recommend that they be read in the order written--"Boomfell," "The Day," (I think this is the title), "Being Brett," and "This Time Next Year." You will then understand the sadness and the life-affirming feeling that permeates this author's latest work. Mr. Hobbie recognizes that pain and loss can evolve into growth and perhaps lead to healing, while tightening already strong bonds between individuals. As a cancer survivor, I can tell you that these novels are sometimes not easy reads--but they are so genuine and enlightening that they are well worth the effort, given the author's themes and the depth of his feelings.

I read this book because I knew it had some of the same themes of mortality I am currently encountering in my life. Hobbie very deftly discusses people in an unsentimental way that is a testament to his understanding of humans. Bravo! I recommend this book highly!

This is a brave book, full of sensous delights, well-made sentences, and sadness. The author seems to be very knowing, very mature, and very sad--all traits that popular culture refuses to admit exist. (thank god for good, honest books!) reading this book is bracing, enlightening and, at times, frightening.

The Kirkus review and Ms. Klausner are not engaged in hyperbole; this is a gem, and you should treat yourself to it. It is rare to find a writer who can speak so genuinely through such a rich, varied and nuanced cast of characters. In addition to this skill, Mr. Hobbie knows how to tell a story through these characters so that you care both about the people, and how the narrative is resolved. I was especially drawn to Henry's relationship with his son. The impact and reverberations of a death in the family are realistically portrayed (and anyone who has ever travelled with a friend will empathize with Elizabeth!). Both the NY Times and the Boston Globe reviewed this book strongly, but also both did so in brief. This book deserves a bit more time and attention; writing like this ought to be heralded and celebrated, not merely noted in passing.

Everyone Henry Ash knows seems to be falling apart from grief. Trying to contend with difficulties, they all go their separate ways. After their daughter's death from cancer, Henry Ash journeys to his sister-in-law's summer home in Vermont. Henry's spouse Elizabeth, unable to move on from her own personal mourning, is touring England with a friend. Elizabeth's sister Mary is still recovering from the sudden death of her spouse Fitz, who died in the Vermont home. Helen arrives at the Vermont home, seeking Fitz. In Vermont, Henry finds Fitz's presence everywhere, especially after finding the man's personal journal. It seems that Fitz was writing about his complex and agonizing relationships with Helen and Mary. Everyone seeks solace, honesty, and forgiveness, but can any of them reach out to grab what they desire? THIS TIME LAST YEAR is an incredible novel that digs deeply into relationships, especially those involving individuals recovering from the loss of a loved one. The characters feel so genuine that readers will believe they are reading about a friend, a relative, or even themselves. The poignant story line is moving, extremely deep, and yet never slows down for even a paragraph. Award winning Douglas Hobbie is one of the top novelists of the decade and his latest novel enhances his deserved reputation as a first rate writer. Harriet Klausner