Cynthia Martin, Head Librarian, Champlain Library
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Similar to his ever-popular A Gentleman in Moscow, I was completely enraptured by Amor Towles latest novel The Lincoln Highway and struggled to put it down.
Towles has a superb command of language and the ability to capture the imagination of readers. He brilliantly layers in threads and references – whether historical, philosophical, or otherwise – along with creating endearing characters.
The Lincoln Highway is a boisterous and poignant coming-of-age story. It is about an American road trip, but begins to feel like The Odyssey, as Emmett Watson’s best laid plans get complicated by his sidekicks, Duchess and Woolly.
This story covers just 10 days, but Emmet, Billy, Duchess and Woolly pack in every adventure one can imagine. Along the way, they meet a cast of eccentric characters from all walks of life. Each chapter is told from a different character’s perspective and they don’t always see things the same way. Towles manages to weave each side story effortlessly into the bigger plot line, as he builds toward the powerful conclusion.
I felt like a passenger on this journey and not just a passive reader. That’s what brilliant storytellers do – there is nothing as enjoyable as opening a book and being completely immersed in a world an author has created.
There is a sense of nostalgia in the writing, some sadness, and – most importantly – empathy. My time spent with Emmett, Billy, Sally, Duchess, Woolly and Ulysses won’t soon be forgotten. And if anyone thought there would be a drop-off after A Gentleman in Moscow, think again. Fans will love this novel, and Mr. Towles is sure to win a legion of new followers. And deservedly so, as he has arguably written one of the best books of the year.
Book Review written by Cynthia Martin, Head Librarian, Champlain Library – About Me: My job at the Champlain Library is the perfect place for my book addiction. Aside from my passion for reading, I love hiking and taking photos of frogs.
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The Champlain Library is located at 94 Main Street East, Vankleek Hill, ON. K0B 1R0 613-678-2216, www.bc-cl.ca
