This is my first Ann Patchett and I will certainly be seeking out more. The way this story moves between settings and people, but mostly emotional beats captured me and pulled me down into the narrative. 

I don’t know if I loved it more because I was a young person who dreamed of being an actor only to pass up the opportunity when it finally it finally came. It certainly brings to life Lara’s story for me. It also captures a hope for the future, and some of my concerns, in something that feels like a warm hug. 

If you love narratives contained by location so that you can sit with the characters, this is the story for you. Like many others recommended, I listened to the audiobook, because is Meryl Streep is going to read to you, who are you to say no?