Everybody's Fool: A novel

Well-written with engaging characters humorously presented.

Richard Russo is one of my favorite authors and Everybody's Fool is a prime example of why he is. His writing always excels in giving depth to everyday people while providing a backdrop of nearly absurd, humorous events which tie them together. I am always in awe of anyone that manages to add depth to a story's characters, while maintaining the reader's attention. And Mr. Russo never fails to do that. As I read Everybody's Fool, I was so caught up with learning about and understanding these characters that for all I cared, the main story line could have been as mundane as that of the opening of a new Starbucks. The way he does manages this is through a perfect blend of the character's thoughts, points of view, and remembrances. I couldn't help but think of all the times I've read the character writing tip to 'not tell the audience, show them'. Strangely enough, in essence he is telling us and it works. It works extremely well. As for the plot, in typical fashion, he creates a set of events which take place over the span of only a few days, but have such impact on the people involved, that the whole story seems to go on for much longer (in a good way, as it is keeping your attention). It gives that real-life feeling of how day-to-day routines eat up our time without notice, while strong events capture our attention. In the case of Everybody's Fool however, the events are, as I mentioned, bordering on absurd, yet wonderfully comical. Which brings me to another reason I enjoy his works: his humor. His writing capably spans from slapstick, to witty dialog, to insightful comic observations on human behavior - abundant and in good balance. What to expect: As a reader you will be introduced (or in many cases re-introduced if you previously read Nobody's Fool) to a number of the more unique characters in the upstate New York town of Bath. And, while this is, by definition, a sequel, the reader can jump right in. Mr. Russo, does a very good job of ensuring this book can s...