A Patchwork Planet by Anne Tyler

Book Review: A Patchwork Planet
Author: Anne Tyler
288 Pages
Copyright: 1998

I won’t try to redo the review from the New York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/books/98/04/19/reviews/980419.19shieldt.html. Intead, I will give my personal evaluation and opinion of A Patchwork Planet by Anne Tyler.

I chose A Patchwork Planet book from the recommended reading list in Stephen King’s On Writing. I found it thoroughly enjoyable. A Patchwork Planet offers an intimate look in into the life of lovable loser, Barnaby Gaitlin, as he attempts to get his life into order.

From the start you walk in the shoes of this odd, and seemingly simplistic man. Divorced and not actively involved with his only daughter, he seems lost, almost unaware of humanity and life. Yet his kindness and helpful nature in his work, “Rent-a-Back” would suggest otherwise.

He seems to flow from day to day, without much intensity or involvement- until he meets his “angel”. Barnaby starts to become involved with this muse and feels this is the missing element that was needed in his life- the spark to jumpstart his slow existence.

Anne Tyler expertly weaves funny and tender perceptions of humanity into a smooth flowing novel that kept me enthralled from beginning to end. This endearing story never pushed or hurried; a written reflection of Barnaby’s personality.

I highly recommend this book.