Oh William Book Review: Gives You Bucketful of Happy Tears
Oh William! by Elizabeth Strout is a slow, introspective, slice-of-life novel that gives you bucketful of happy tears. I read this one with my book club, BookBeezzz, and really enjoyed it. It lingers in the back of your mind long after you’ve put it down.
The book feels like reading someone’s private journal written at the end of a long day. Not invading someone’s privacy. No, no, no, not at all. It’s as if someone's talking about their life, love and the small, intimate moments with a friend.
My Rating:
❤️❤️❤️❤️🤍
“Gives you bucketful of happy tears.”
Check Oh William! on Goodreads
What is the Book Oh William About
Oh William! follows Lucy Barton, a successful writer living in New York. It’s about various incidents that make Lucy "reconnect" with her first husband William, after the death of her second husband. They go on a trip together (both literally and emotionally), unearthing old memories, family secrets, and the quiet tensions that shaped their past.
The story moves gently, focusing mostly on Lucy’s reflections and the small interactions she had with people around her. It’s very much about her moments with William and his family, exploring the complexity of human relationships.
What Works
Elizabeth’s writing is simple and warm; it’s easy to follow. With just around 240 pages in the book, you can pretty much finish the book in a single sitting (or two). The main character, Lucy Barton, feels personal and honest. She feels like a charming grandma looking to build new connections out in the world. She’s someone you’d happily sit with over tea, sharing stories of your life.
The charm of this novel lies in its intimacy. It’s less about dramatic events and more about the subtleties of human connection. William and Lucy’s relationship is full of relatable imperfections, unsaid vulnerability, and understated friendship that make the story feel real.
What Falls Short
Oh William! is deliberately unhurried, which might be frustrating at times. And there’s no any plot development as such. The book is pretty much character-driven. It’s entirely a reflective story, with Lucy’s internal monologue (which sometimes feels repetitive).
But then, I feel that’s part of its charm. The story isn’t meant to rush; it’s meant to slow you down. It encourages reflection, making it ideal for slow afternoons or cozy reading sessions.
Who Should Read It
This is perfect for readers of literary fiction who enjoy quiet, thoughtful stories about relationships. If you’re looking for a contemporary women fiction about relationship psychology, this one’s a perfect read. It offers a look into how people change with age, forget things (and remember them), and try to understand each other.
Final Thoughts
Oh William! is a gentle, reflective, and beautifully written slice-of-life novel. Elizabeth has created a contemplative story about life, relationship and the choices that define us. If you like slowing down and savouring small moments, this book is for you. It offers you warmth and occasional mushy moments that remains with you for long after the final page.
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