"The Story of Arthur Truluv" by Elizabeth Berg

I have a confession to make: You know that book Wonder by R.J. Palacio about the boy with facial deformities who attends public school for the first time and it's difficult for everyone involved, but in the end everyone's heart grows at least four sizes and we all feel good?

I didn't love it. It's OK. And the movie was probably OK too. But as far as plot, character development, the style of the writing... I thought it was just OK.

That's how I feel about The Story of Arthur Truluv, which is really all the things the various blurbs about the book says it is -- heartwarming, moving and sweet. You may even cry a little. But, unfortunately, it's like a much-watered-down version of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. Which is a far better book.

Arthur is too good. And Maddy's story is somewhat unbelievable (Why is she bullied? How does she get into the situation she gets into?) and too cliche (goth teen going to art school?). Lucille's story seemingly comes out of nowhere. Overall, there's little to no character development. Sure, your heart will feel good after reading it, and if that's what you need, definitely pick it up. It made me wish my grandparents were still alive, and I might have closed the book with a little smile on my face and almost a tear in my eye (this coming from a person who cries every time our anthem is played during the Olympics). But I was also disappointed.

Contrary to everything I've just written, I may seek out other works by Elizabeth Berg, just to see if they are better. Because I did like this book, but I didn't love it.

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope 2018 brings you lots of great reads.

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