French Braid

by Anne Tyler
French Braid cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 9356
  • Added: 2025-12-24
  • Updated: 2025-12-31
  • ISBN: 9780385698702
  • Publisher: Bond Street Books
  • Published: 2022-03-22
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

French Braid by Anne Tyler is a captivating exploration of the Garrett family's dynamics, starting with their first and last family vacation in 1959. The novel delves into the lives of Mercy, Robin, and their three children, Alice, Lily, and David, each grappling with their own aspirations and struggles. As the decades pass, the family's influences on one another become evident, showcasing the complexities of love, misunderstandings, and the inescapable ties that bind them together. /n/n Tyler's signature warmth and humor shine through in this story, which illuminates the everyday kindnesses and cruelties that define family relationships. The novel is a testament to the author's uncanny insight into human nature, offering a poignant and often hilarious look at the Garretts' journey through life.

Reviews
Judith McKinnon · Judith McKinnon · 2022-06-10
insightful 4.50

The book is small but perfectly formed, with natural dialogue and well-executed plotting. It captures the little cruelties of family life with insight and warmth.

This novel is a small but perfectly formed gem. The dialogue feels natural and authentic, and the plotting is well-executed, keeping readers engaged throughout. The story captures the little cruelties and complexities of family life with insight and warmth, making it a deeply relatable and engaging read. The characters are well-drawn, each with their own unique quirks and struggles, which adds depth and richness to the narrative. The novel's strength lies in its ability to balance humor and heartbreak, creating a story that is both funny and poignant. The exploration of family dynamics is particularly compelling, offering a nuanced and thoughtful portrayal of the bonds and conflicts that define familial relationships.

Quick quotes

    French Braid is a small book but perfectly formed.

    Everything is pitched just right – the naturalness of the dialogue, the plotting which rips ...

    A warmly insightful novel capturing the little cruelties of family life.

The Guardian · Jessie Thompson · 2022-03-07
heartfelt 4.50

The author masterfully explores family tensions and resentments over six decades. It's a tender and sprawling saga that captures the complexities of family life.

Anne Tyler's latest novel is a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics across six tumultuous decades. The story delves into the intricate web of relationships, highlighting the tensions and resentments that often accompany family life. The narrative is rich and tender, offering a sprawling saga that feels both intimate and expansive. The characters are beautifully crafted, each with their own unique struggles and triumphs, making the story deeply relatable and engaging. The novel's strength lies in its ability to capture the subtle nuances of family interactions, making it a compelling read for anyone who has ever experienced the joys and pains of familial bonds.

Quick quotes

    The author continues to deftly mine the tensions and resentments of family life with a tender and sprawling saga set across six tumultuous decades.

    It's a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics.

    The narrative is rich and tender, offering a sprawling saga that feels both intimate and expansive.

LibroFullTime · 2022-03-07
delightful 4.00

The book is enjoyed for its subtlety and the emotional impact it leaves. It is kinder and more nuanced than some of the author's previous works.

This novel is a delightful read that leaves a lasting emotional impact. The subtlety of the storytelling is one of its greatest strengths, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the characters' lives and experiences. The book's kinder tone sets it apart from some of the author's more intense works, making it a more approachable and enjoyable read. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions feel authentic and relatable. The story's emotional depth is balanced by moments of humor and warmth, creating a well-rounded and satisfying reading experience. The ending, in particular, leaves a poignant and thoughtful impression.

Quick quotes

    I have just finished this book and I very much enjoyed it.

    I liked the subtlety and I felt quite sad at the end too.

    It felt kinder than redhead.

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