Redhead by the Side of the Road

by Anne Tyler
Redhead by the Side of the Road cover
Good Books rating 3.6
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 9357
  • Added: 2025-12-24
  • Updated: 2025-12-31
  • ISBN: 9780525658412
  • Publisher: Knopf Publishing Group
  • Published: 2020-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Redhead by the Side of the Road,' Richard Russo introduces us to Mike McGill, a man content with his solitary life and predictable routines. When a young woman named Callie claims to be his daughter, Mike's world is turned upside down. This novel explores themes of family, identity, and the unexpected turns life can take. Russo's sharp observations and humor make this a compelling read that resonates with readers of all ages. /n/n The story unfolds in a small town where Mike's life is disrupted by Callie's arrival. As Mike grapples with the possibility of fatherhood, he embarks on a journey that challenges his perceptions of himself and the world around him. Russo's prose is both poignant and funny, making this a memorable exploration of human connections and personal growth.

Reviews
Efsunland · Efsun · 2020-10-08
disappointing 2.30

The book has moments of beauty but is slightly disappointing overall. It might have worked better as a short story.

Efsun from Efsunland finds Redhead by the Side of the Road to be a mixed bag. While the book has moments of beauty, it also has moments of collapsed pointillism, making it slightly disappointing at times. The reviewer feels that the story might have been more affecting as a short story, given its abrupt ending and thin plot. However, they appreciate the moments of beauty and the exploration of Micah Mortimer's character. The reviewer gives the book a rating of 2.3 out of 5, indicating that while there are some good parts, the overall experience is not as impactful as it could have been.

Quick quotes

    Her latest, Redhead by the Side of the Road, has moments of beauty and moments of collapsed pointillism.

    It's easy to imagine that Redhead might have been a very affecting short story.

    In a shorter format, the abrupt ending would not have felt so jarring.

Judith McKinnon · Judith McKinnon · 2020-09-30
good 4.00

This is a perfect little book that captures the essence of a man's journey with warmth and thoughtfulness. It's a story that resonates deeply.

Judith McKinnon finds Redhead by the Side of the Road to be a perfect little book. She appreciates the warmth and thoughtfulness in Tyler's writing, which once again reminds her why she loves the author's work. The story revolves around Micah Mortimer, a man who lives alone and keeps to himself. The reviewer enjoys the exploration of Micah's mind and the way the narrative unfolds. She also highlights the joyful and compassionate aspects of the story, making it a deeply resonant read. The reviewer gives the book an easy four out of five, praising its ability to capture the complexities of human relationships in a simple yet profound manner.

Quick quotes

    It really is the perfect little book and sometimes a small story is just right.

    An easy four out of five from me.

    Tyler's writing is truly a treasure, and this book once again reminded me of that.

The Guardian · Imogen Carter · 2020-03-30
excellent 4.50

This novel is one of Tyler's best in recent times, with a slender yet finely crafted narrative. It's unassuming but deeply impactful.

Imogen Carter from The Guardian praises Anne Tyler's latest novel, noting that it's one of her best in a while. The book is slender and unassuming, but it's finely crafted and deeply impactful. The story is about a man named Micah Mortimer, who is kind but unsocial, and the narrative explores his journey as he tries to shape his life. The reviewer appreciates the subtlety and depth of the characters, making it a standout read. They also highlight the beauty in the simple moments and the way Tyler captures the essence of human relationships.

Quick quotes

    Tyler rarely disappoints, but this is her best novel in some time – slender, unassuming, almost cautious in places, yet so very finely and beautifully crafted.

    The story is a small one, but it's told with such precision and care that it feels monumental.

    Micah Mortimer is a character who will stay with you long after you've finished the book.

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