50 pages • 1 hour read
Elizabeth StroutLucy by the Sea
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2022A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout, Lucy Barton relocates from New York City to a rural Maine community with her ex-husband, William, to escape the Covid-19 pandemic. They navigate pandemic life, their evolving relationship, and social unrest from afar, eventually deciding to settle in Maine permanently, facing new challenges with a sense of resilience and adaptation. The novel also includes depictions of widespread fear and death, as well as discussions on sexual assault and police violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Elizabeth Strout’s Lucy by the Sea has received favorable reviews for its nuanced portrayal of grief, introspection, and human connections during the pandemic. Critics praise Strout's delicate narrative and emotional depth. However, some note a slow pacing and lack of plot intensity. Overall, it's a compelling, character-driven novel that resonates with readers.
Who Should Read Lucy by the Sea?
Readers who appreciate introspective, character-driven narratives will enjoy Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout. Fans of Olive Kitteridge and Gilead would be drawn to its exploration of personal relationships and resilience amidst life's challenges. The novel's tender, contemplative style appeals to those who cherish deep emotional journeys.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Romance
American Literature
Modern Classic Fiction
Relationships: Family
Emotions/Behavior: Loneliness
Emotions/Behavior: Hope
Relationships
Grief / Death