👶👶👶 The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, by Rachel Joyce

This was a sweet story, that reminded me a bit of Forrest Gump, with an older protagonist. Harold was an endearing character, but I must admit that it was very surprising to me that a female wrote this novel. It seemed often as if Harold’s wife, Maureen, was made out to be a completely ill-mannered, unrefined, and unpleasant person. Though the plot twist was rather foreseeable, the reason for her personal manner was later revealed, and yet, I couldn’t help but feeling as though she was unjustly portrayed throughout the majority of the book. Having said that, it is evident that I grew to care for these characters., which reflects well on the author.

I must admit that the title was indeed accurate: this was a rather “unlikely” story, evidenced by the fact that a 65-year-old man walks 627 miles. Suspension of disbelief is certainly required as one plods through this novel. I say plod, because the story itself, along with Harold’s progression, seemed painfully slow at times. Of course, it is understood that this slow movement is inherent in the premise, but there were few points of light along the way to coax the reader along… too much repetitiveness.

Overall, it was a departure from the depiction of the stale curmudgeon, as seems to be rather trendy right now. In contrast, Harold was portrayed as a rather positive seeker, rather than a cranky old man, which in that respect, was refreshing.

Read 8/24/16