Rachel Joyce’s debut novel, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, is spell-binding in its simplicity, yet profoundly moving.
Harold Fry receives a message from a former co-worker, Queenie Hennessy, that she is dying. He promptly sends a reply, but rather than posting the letter, at the last minute decides to walk the distance to say farewell in person. And distance it is—627 miles from the little English village of Kingsbridge north to a hospice in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Harold isn’t equipped for such a strenuous walk. He’s wearing around-the-house yachting shoes and a light coat, shirt and tie. He soon regrets not having his cell phone, but after walking several miles, calls his wife, Maureen, collect. She’s irritated, but that’s nothing new. Almost everything Harold does irritates her, and has for many years.
As Harold’s journey progresses, he reminisces about his life, recalling sad and regrettable times. Along the way he meets people, many encouraging him on his journey.
The story occasionally switches to Maureen as she, too, looks back on their marriage of many years, acknowledging the joys, but mostly the sorrows and regrets.
I loved this endearing story of ordinary people. As Harold’s journey unfolds, I took my time to savor the descriptions of English countryside, and the genteel charm of a man who is so careful not to offend the people he encounters. The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is a lovely novel of profound insight.
Another to add to my “to do” reading list. I come from a family that avoided confrontation at all costs so this could be a healing read for me.
My parents “didn’t talk” about things either. What an unhealthy way to live!
I love your book reviews, Mary. I always want to read the same book you have read and reviewed. This one especially sounds like a book to be kept on any reader’s shelf.
Thank you, Alice. I’m so glad you enjoy the reviews. This book is, for sure, a keeper.
Our book group read this. We couldn’t decide if it was funny or sad. But, you are right, it is moving. Really gave us something to talk about. I’d recommend it for book groups, especially.
Nancy, I cherish my book club. I’ve read wonderful books that I would never have selected on my own.
Sounds really great. Reminds me in some ways of a Netflix movie we watched, about an elderly woman who left her retirement village to walk 80 miles to her granddaughter’s home and talk her out of marrying the wrong guy.
Irene, I loved the way the author took her time in describing the countryside. I learned a lot from this book.