Dear Life

by Alice Munro
Dear Life cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 3107
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780701187842
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2012-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Dear Life,' a young soldier returns from the Second World War with plans to reunite with his fiancée, but a chance detour changes the course of his life forever. Stepping off the train at the wrong stop, he finds himself on a farm owned by another woman, embarking on a journey that will take him far from his intended path. The book concludes with four deeply personal pieces that evoke the author's own childhood memories, offering a poignant reflection on life's twists and turns. Alice Munro's masterful storytelling weaves together themes of love, identity, and the unpredictable nature of human experience, making 'Dear Life' a compelling exploration of the choices that shape our lives. Alice Munro's 'Dear Life' is not just a collection of stories but a profound meditation on the human condition. Through her signature style of intricate detail and emotional depth, Munro captures the essence of small-town life and the quiet dramas that unfold within it. The final four pieces, described as 'autobiographical in feeling,' provide a deeply personal glimpse into the author's own past, adding a layer of intimacy and authenticity to the collection. This book is a testament to Munro's ability to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary narratives, leaving readers with a sense of wonder and introspection.

Reviews
Readability · 2019-08-28
brilliant 5.00

Dear Life is celebrated for its brilliance, with Munro's writing changing the way the reviewer thinks about short stories. The collection is described as infinitely worth reading.

The reviewer is deeply moved by Dear Life, praising Munro's brilliance and her unique approach to the short story form. They mention how Munro's writing has changed their perspective on what short stories can achieve, highlighting the depth and complexity of her narratives. The reviewer finds the collection infinitely worth reading, appreciating Munro's ability to capture the essence of human experiences with such precision and insight. The stories are seen as a testament to Munro's masterful storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

Quick quotes

    Dear Life is infinitely worth reading, and the brilliance of Munro's writing has changed the way I think about short stories.

    Munro's stories are a testament to her masterful storytelling.

    The collection is a profound exploration of human experiences.

Mookse and Gripes · 2013-01-25
compelling 4.00

The reviewer appreciates Munro's exploration of childhood and the vibrancy of life in the face of decline. The stories are noted for their tight structure and emotional depth.

The reviewer delves into Munro's portrayal of childhood and the vibrancy of life amidst decline, finding these themes particularly compelling. They highlight Munro's ability to tighten the narrative structure, creating stories that are both emotionally resonant and tightly crafted. The reviewer appreciates the depth of Munro's exploration of life's complexities, noting how her stories capture the essence of human experiences with a keen eye for detail. The collection is seen as a powerful testament to Munro's skill as a storyteller, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Quick quotes

    After this generous look at childhood, its innocence and vibrance in the face of decline, Munro tightens the story up (as she so often does).

    Munro's stories capture the essence of human experiences with a keen eye for detail.

    The collection is a powerful testament to Munro's skill as a storyteller.

The Guardian · 2012-11-08
insightful 4.50

The final four pieces offer a deeply personal insight into Munro's life and writing process, showcasing her unique ability to blend the autobiographical with the fictional. The stories are beautifully crafted, revealing Munro's mastery of the short story form.

The reviewer highlights the unique structure of Dear Life, particularly the final four autobiographical pieces that provide a glimpse into Munro's personal experiences and her development as a writer. These sections are praised for their beauty and insight, demonstrating Munro's skill in weaving personal narrative with fiction. The reviewer appreciates how Munro's writing captures the essence of life's moments, both ordinary and extraordinary, with a clarity and depth that is unmatched. The stories are seen as a testament to Munro's enduring talent and her ability to connect with readers on a profound level.

Quick quotes

    These four short autobiographical pieces are beautifully written and give some insight into Munro's formation as a writer.

    The uncanny doubling that occurs in Munro's stories is a testament to her skill.

    Munro's clarity of vision and her unparalleled gift for storytelling are evident throughout.

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