Many of us go through phases with authors, and lately I have been on a major Julia Glass kick. I re-read Three Junes to prepare for my interview with Glass about The Widower’s Tale, remembered how much I like her writing, then went on to read The Whole World Over and I See You Everywhere. After this delightful adventure in reading, I just have one question: is anyone better at telling a story from multiple points of view?
After posting an excerpt from The Widower’s Tale a few weeks back, I know I’m preaching to the choir. Commenters praised Glass’s “detail and imagery” and “delicate and precise language,” and many of you said the book—about a 70-year-old man who experiences some unexpected life changes—is on your TBR list.
The Widower’s Tale goes on sale this week, and we’re giving away one copy to a lucky reader. To enter the contest, leave a comment right here on the blog about why you want to read this novel. (A good starting point would be BookPage’s interview, excerpted below.)
The fear of and yearning for change
Fans of Julia Glass’ beloved Thre
e Junes will feel a sense of familiarity when they dive into The Widower’s Tale, the author’s fourth novel. The stories share similar plot points: in both, the matriarch of a family dies young, leaving a husband and children behind. In both, a widower unexpectedly falls for another woman. In both, Glass creates a slowly unfolding, yet fully rendered, portrait of a family.
But don’t think this book is just a rehash of past work. The tone is more satiric—you can look forward to amusing passages on everything from freeganism to “books as bytes.” And the protagonist, 70-year-old Percy Darling, is distinct from Paul McLeod, the widower of Three Junes.
In a telephone conversation from her home in Marblehead, Massachusetts, Glass said, “When I started writing The Widower’s Tale, I was trying to describe Percy’s character, and I said he’s like a cross between Paul McLeod and Malachy Burns. He has that razor edge to his wit.” Never matter if you haven’t read Glass’s National Book Award-winning debut from 2002—although if you have, you’ll understand why that combination will be a delight to fans.
[Continue reading this interview.]
local writer
great storyline
I’m looking forward to reading THE WIDOWER’S TALE. Like Julia Glass, I, too, am originally from MA, and have always wanted to move back to my home state.
We own a gift/book store. The community knows us as being progressive and honest. I’ve been busy reading and recommending books for our private book club which we host every six weeks at our store. “Honestly”, I have not had the chance to “progress” and include other books. I have not read any of Julia Glass’s books. Winning her book(s) would certainly nudge me to expand my reading list.
She’s a Massachusetts author and being from Massachusetts, I love reading novels that are set in this state.
I have not read anything by Julia Glass but she sounds like an awesome author and I’ve added her to my list of must read.
Having read the synopsis of Julia Glass’s new book in BookPage, I already had it on my list of “Books to Read”. Now I will certainly not only read this one,
but will also look into her others!
I’ve read all of her books. One of our very best writers.
This book is getting great press and the synopsis sounds interesting. It was already on my to be read list, and am glad to know more about it!
I’ve also read all her books and am looking forward to this new one.
Sounds like a good book so will give it a try.
I’ve also read her other novels and am looking forward to enjoying this one as much as the others.
Percy sounds like me except he’s a man and I’m a woman. I am a 67 year old widow settling happily into retirement: reading novels, watching old movies, but not swimming naked in a pond, just swimming in a pool in a swimsuit. I can’t be that BOLD. What to do after retirement, maybe A Widower’s Tale might give me some clues.
I look forward to this book; I work in healthcare and deal with older people daily, and I’m fascinated by how each one deals with aging differently. With parents and in-laws in this age group, we will be finding out soon enough!
Being of an age where I experience both fear of and yearning for change, Julia Glass’s description of her story is relevant to me. I’m about to move to Massachusetts, which adds another element of interest. I’m sure I’d like the satiric tone of the book, the “pungent edge to the humor, and the “razor edge to the wit” of the main character.
I haven’t read any of Glass’ books but am intrigued by what I read here. Enough so that I went online to see if my library has her earlier works so I can start reading. They even have the Widower’s Tale on order so if I don’t win a copy…
I don’t think I have read any novels by Julia Glass, but it sounds good. It is nice to read about widows/widowers who get a second chance at happiness after a loss.
I loved Julia Glass’ THREE JUNES and Paul McLeod. Can’t wait to meet Percy Darling!
Love learning of new books through your articles. Will be requesting The Widower’s Tale from library.
I’ve never read Julia Glass, but this makes me want to. This sounds like a book I would enjoy.
Always looking for new authors for my book club, will definately put them on our list. Thanks!
I had not heard of Ms. Glass till I read the blog, and am now going to request this book and look into her others as well. Book Page is great for giving me information on authors with whom I am unfamiliar. Thanks so very much!
The author makes me feel as if I know her characters personally. They become real people to her readers.
That’s why I love Book Page and Book Page Extra…it has introduced me to many new authors that I probably would not have found on my own. I get so excited when I discover from BP a new author that I adore, and that is why I am anxious to read Ms. Glass’s books….!
I fell in love with Three Junes, have met the author & heard her read & just finished I See You Everywhere that I sent off to my sister. I love her elegant writing & exploration of relationships! The local flavor, too! She’s an artist who paints beautifully with language. What a gift!
as a freelancer I enjoy reading as much as writing and also enjoy reading various genre. this one sounds like it could be interesting.
I’ve not experienced Glass’s works, this sounds interesting. . .hmmm
I just retired and am looking forward to some wonderful reading adventures!
I havn’t read any of her books. This one sounds wonderful and one I would like to read. I like a book where multiple characters come together each with their own set of problems but somehow in the end it all works together.
I read Three Junes many years ago. Might have to re-read it? The Windower’s tale is also on my “to read” list
i will like reading this one
I’m looking forward to reading the amusing passages on freeganism
I have not had the pleasure of reading any of this authors work, I do look foward to reading her new book
I have not read any of her books, but this book looks like something I would love to read.
I read “Three Junes” and “I See You Everywhere” and enjoyed both very much. I am sure I would enjoy Julia Glass’s latest book so I would love to win it!
I loved Three Junes. If A Widower’s Tale is anywhere near it in quality, it’s a winner. Can’t wait to read it!
This book would be a pleasure to read. Humourous, unique and since I am a young widow it would provide me with a perspective which I would enjoy.
Absolutely love Julia Glass’ writing. Would be fantastic to receive this book.
I need a new author in my life, and this really looks like a good author and a good read. I’ve heard of Julia Glass before and this would be a great time to try her books.
I liked her other books and this one sounds like it will be a good read also.
Julia Glass impressed me with “Three Junes” and she hasn’t disappointed me since. How she juggles multiple points of view and seemingly disconnected storylines both amazes and satisfies.
This author sounds like a must read … and from the wonderful state of MA merely adds to the mix.
I am at that age where a book of this type can possible determine my future choices in life.
I am always ready to try a new author. The first book has to really catch my interest to be added to my ‘must read every book by this author’ list.
The review makes this book sound fascinating. I am looking forward to reading it.
I absolutely loved The Three Junes by Julia Glass. I told all my friends about it and eagerly await her newest book. I would love to win it!
I read Three Junes years ago and am looking forward to reading The Widower’s tale. Julia Glass is a first-rate writer .
I have not read anything by Julia Glass, but from the review I have put her on my list of authors to read. Her latest book brings up interesting ideas.
Sounds like a really good book.
katsrus(at)gmail(dot)com
I have read books from one, two, and three points of view but never more than that. The concept enthralls me and draws me in. To read one that is really done well is an opportunity not to be missed.
I really enjoy books about family relationships. Also, my favorite authors, Jodi Picoult and Emily Giffin, write in the multiple-viewpoint style.
We’ve enjoyed her previous work as they display excellent writing and insight into the human character/condition. Looking forward to her new one.
I want to escape to Percy’s world. I want to meet his daughters and I want to embrace his world. Thanks.
Although I haven’t read anything by Julia Glass,now
that I have been introduced to her by Book Page, I
have requested a copy of The Widower’s Tale from my
library. Thanks, Book Page, for keeping me apprised
of this wonderland I call books!
I would like to read the Widower’s Tale to see if I can find comparisons with The Three Junes which I felt was her best book that she has written. Also she is a local author in New England which is where I reside.
I haven’t read any of her books but I always like to read novels about families. The trials that make a family what it is make great stories. I have read about her books in Book Page but just haven’t read one yet.
This sounds like a novel that I could be
very interested in. I have not read any
of her books, but would like to have an
opportunity to.
I have read any of her books either but they sound fascinating. Love to be entered in this contest.
Have enjoyed other books. looking forward to this new one. thanks for allowing us to enter.
I’ve read all of Julia Glass’s books and am a huge fan. If she wrote it, I want to read it!
Have been hitting the family relationship scene recently. Julia Glass novels fit into this wonderful category. Thanks you for the chance to enter.
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I’m a Julia Glass fan!
Also, have not read a Julia Glass book as yet….but I enjoy reading “family” novels. Thanks!
I want to read this book because it sounds interesting and I like to try authors I have never read before.
I have enjoyed all of Julia Glass’ previous novels and want to read this one.
I have read and loved all Julia Glass’s novels. I recently described “The Whole World Over” to a friend as one of the best books I have ever read. Her characters are people I want to know. I wait for each new book.
After reading “Three Junes” I had to get her next one “I See You Everywhere” which was just as good!I’m sure this one is even better!
Because I have never read any of her books (but have always wanted to) and because I am an extreme bookworm who cannot fund her habit because I am a poor college student! Pick me!
My book group did “Three Junes” and I often loan my battered copy and recommend it to others. Fenno is one of my all-time favorites characters; I want to be a regular in his bookshop! Looking forward to “The Widower’s Tale.”
Please enter me in the giveaway. I’ve never read any books by this author. I do have this book on my list of books to read. Sounds like a good tale. I enjoy books in this genre. Characters with a sharp wit will be fun to read. Thank you.
I did add The Widower’s Tale on my TBR list, not just because I devour all your releases but I am very drawn to the subject matter having been recently widowed myself! Hoping I have another chapter left in my life! Besides I am a fellow transplanted New Yorker who has resisted Facebook until my family started posting pictures~LOL!
I read Julia’s book the Three Junes. I would love to read this one as well!
I am expanding my reading horizons and am looking forward to reading Julia’s books.
Not yet having read anything by Julia Glass, I’m very curious to see how she handles a 70-year-old protagonist in a love story.
This book sounds interesting – and I’ve never read anything by her.
I loved “Three Junes!” After listening to a library copy of the audio I purchased both the book and downloaded the audio from m audible account for future re-reading and re-listening. “I also loved the
“The Whole World Over” and “I See you Everywhere.” Her characters stay with you for a long time…
I love to try out new authors and this book looks interesting.
I’ve read the Three Junes and I See You Everywhere, so am thrilled she’s come out with a new novel. I’m sure I’ll read it whether I win or not!
Looking forward to reading this book as this is a favorite author.
Always look forward to a new novel by Julia Glass. I’ve read and loved all of her novels. Her plots and her characters resonate with one long after the book is finished. Always leaves the reader with plenty to think about.
I will be looking forward to reading Julia Glass’ novels.
Julia Glass would be a new-to-me author. I look forward to reading as many new authors each year as I can, and often find a new favorite in this way.
I believe I’m about to become a Julia Glass fan!
I have never read anything by Julia Glass. I read the interview and the book sounds very interesting. I would enjoy reading it and discovering a new ( to me) author.
I love Julia Glass; I hardly ever remember novels and I remember Three Junes vividly; I love how she “does” gay men; I love THAT she “does” gay men; I love her author photo; I am so excited to hear she has a new book out.
I am rading barbra delansly WHILE MY SISTER SLEEPS, and LAKE NEWS.
Sounds like a great read! Can’t wait to read it.
As a widow it would be interesting to see the differences in the way men and women react to life-changing actions.
this sounds great, thanks for the chance to win this
right now reading Mudbound
I’ve read and enjoyed Julia Glass in the past and definitely have this one on my TBR list!
This book sounds wonderful. I can’t wait to read it.
I love Julia Glass! Can’t wait to read this book.
I am always looking for new authors, and this definitely sounds like a winner.
It is an interesting thing to consider the husband as the surviving spouse. I’ll look forward to read how this character carries on. Thanks for having the contest!
I’ll be honest, I read 3 Junes and did not care for it. I would like to give Julia Glass another chance and try reading her new book.
Just love time period pieces and especially ones that revolve around a true love story. Can’t wait to read this one.
i have read her other works and enjoyed them….and there is something about the name percy.
I loved The Three Junes and I’ve heard that this new book is similar so I’m really looking forward to reading it!
I haven’t read anything by this author & the review sounds good. Please enter me, thanks.
I have the most amazing guest post from Julia on my author blog this morning, “The Not Quite Yes” – about her “overnight success.” One of the most inspiring posts I’ve gotten, and I’ve had posts from many amazing authors. It’s at http://megwaiteclayton.com/1stbooks/?p=2007 I just started Widower’s Tale and am loving it!
Meg Waite Clayton
author of the national bestseller, The Wednesday Sisters and the forthcoming The Four Ms. Bradwells
http://www.megwaiteclayton.com
Three Junes is one of my favorite books and one I frequently recommend/lend to others! I’d love to read her new one.
Absolutely loved, loved, loved Three Junes, and looking forward to reading her new work!
Wow, this will of course be another of Julia’s wonderful reads! I always love that her best characters “are pulled from some corner of [Julia's] heart.” So we have a husband and children who are left over after the death of their wife/mother. Since we already expect the widower to have a new romantic interest, it will be fun to see the obstacles they jump under and over to make this relationship work for everyone involved. Everyone knows that we are all scared of change. I can’t wait to see how these characters will deal with this one.
~Steph
soklad@hotmail.com
fortheluvofsanity.blogspot.com
I loved Three Junes and am so looking forward to the new book. I would love to win this contest. Thanks Happy Reading everyone.
I’ve not read any of this author’s works, but now am sufficiently intrigued to seek them out..THANKS Book Case!
I’ve never read any of Glass’ work, but when I worked at Barnes and Noble a few years ago, I always heard good vibes. She’s always been on my “to read” list!
I have heard good things abt this author before but never read any thing by her. I would love to find out more!
I have only read The Three Junes by this author (which I loved!) and would like to read more by her. Pick me, pick me!!
I loved the Three Junes, and have been curious to read something else by Julia Glass.
I like the idea of someone taking the change to open their home (barn) for a great reason. I also like the idea of learning how the widower gets effected by the preschool and the people there.
I have heard about grandparents visiting preschools and always thought it was a wonderful thing. But usually the women are the ones to volunteer but men should be encouraged to volunteer. I have found those people who have an active life after retirement have a healthier retirement.
Laura
I’ve managed an indie bookstore for 10 years, and am ashamed to admit that I have yet to read Julia Glass! She has always been a favorite with bookclubs in our store, I would love to make “The Widower’s Tale” my first of hers to read and recommend.
I loved the Three Junes and am looking forward to enjoying this one.
I read Three Junes a few years back and it was terrific! Please enter my name inthe drawing for “The Widower’s Tale” by Julia Glass. Thank you!