The Tin Can Tree

by Anne Tyler
The Tin Can Tree cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 9373
  • Added: 2025-12-24
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781446426593
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2012-03-06
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Tin Can Tree,' Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anne Tyler masterfully explores the profound impact of grief on a family. When young Janie Pike dies in a tragic accident, her family is left numb with grief and torn apart by guilt and recrimination. This compassionate and haunting novel delves into how each member of the family learns to face the future in their own unique way. Anne Tyler's ability to take the ordinary and make it sing is evident throughout the story, as she weaves a tale that resonates with readers on a deeply emotional level. /n/nAnne Tyler has sold over 8 million books worldwide, and 'The Tin Can Tree' is a testament to her enduring popularity and literary prowess. Praised by authors such as Rachel Joyce, Monica Ali, and Sebastian Faulks, Tyler's work continues to captivate audiences with its insightful portrayal of human nature and the complexities of family dynamics. This novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply moving and thought-provoking exploration of grief and healing.

Reviews
Sue's Book Reviews · Sue · 2023-12-14
interesting 4.00

As a piece of social and cultural history, it's an interesting read. The characters are well-developed and the story feels real.

Sue finds the novel to be an interesting read, particularly as a piece of social and cultural history. The characters are well-developed and feel very real, which adds to the overall experience. The story's themes and tone are reminiscent of other works, but it stands out on its own. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to create a story that feels both timeless and relevant, making it a worthwhile read. The novel's early publication date is evident, but it does not detract from its overall appeal.

Quick quotes

    As a piece of social/cultural history, or character study, it's an interesting read.

    It was originally published in 1965, so is naturally dated;

    The characters were like family within a few pages.

Libro Fulltime · 2021-01-20
moving 4.50

This novel deals with grief in a moving way, evoking strong emotions. The characters are portrayed with depth and authenticity.

The reviewer was deeply moved by this novel, particularly by the way it handles the theme of grief. They found themselves in tears near the end, which speaks to the emotional impact of the story. The characters are well-developed and feel very real, which adds to the overall experience. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to create believable and relatable characters, making the story resonate on a personal level. The novel's early publication does not detract from its emotional depth and character development.

Quick quotes

    I was very moved by this novel.

    I thought that she dealt with the subject of grief very well.

    I found myself in tears near the end of the book.

Tony Shaw's Blog · Tony Shaw · 2012-05-04
mixed 3.00

The novel moves slowly and the resolution feels artificial. However, the author excels at creating believable male characters.

Tony Shaw notes that the novel moves at a very slow pace, which might not appeal to all readers. The resolution, in particular, felt tacked on and artificial, which was a bit disappointing. Despite this, the reviewer appreciates the author's skill in creating believable male characters, which adds depth to the story. The novel is a strong early work, showcasing the author's talent for character development, even if the plot feels somewhat drawn out.

Quick quotes

    This was a strong early novel for Anne Tyler.

    It moved verrrry slowly, and the resolution kind of went over my head or was tacked on and artificial.

    Tyler is constantly underlining how difficult it is to live in society.

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