Weather - Jenny Offill

Funny and enlightening with a type of humor I would call "dusky" (not quite dark but headed that way) and observant. Librarian Lizzie Benson is dealing with multiple family stresses, some early mid-life issues, and a world slowly slipping into madness over the looming life-threatening effects of climate change mixed with toxic politics. It’s apocalyptic, but Lizzie is more glimpsing the abyss rather than staring into it. Serious subject no doubt, but you find yourself laughing with a mix of delight and amusement. All with a wonderful kind of Judaic intermingling of happiness and sorrow. Lizzie is never physically described but the wise revelations from her mind, her wry humor, and her enduring compassion, acquaint us with a very appealing person... empathetic and attractive. Even her prepper obsession is kind of endearing. I’ll miss her now that I’ve finished this too short book.

​Submitted by Ned