Synopsis: We meet Eleanor Oliphant, a lonely isolated young woman who works in an office and spends her weekends drinking.  The story slowly peels back the truth of her troubled life through her interactions with a therapist as she confronts her past and those with whom she begins to interact with.  Will she accept help from those who reach out to her and continue her journey of healing or retreat? 

 

Review: To be honest it is not often I read novels like this as I’m not good with emotionally charged personal stories but I heartily recommend venturing into the world of Eleanor Oliphant’s life.  It is sad and heartbreaking at times but also funny, touching and inspiring.   I cheered when she made progress and shouted and groaned in despair when she faltered.  It’s almost as if Eleanor is an alien recently arrived on Earth who is unfamiliar with how ‘normal’ people live and interact.  She is also very blunt and says exactly what comes into her head with no filter which leads to some awkward and sometimes funny moments.