Tell Me Everything

by Elizabeth Strout

Reading Tell Me Everything felt like settling into a quiet conversation with someone who truly sees people, their flaws, their longings, their histories. It’s unmistakably character-driven, and I found myself appreciating the emotional resonance and depth that Strout brings to even the most understated moments. Her ability to weave together stories across time and characters is masterful, with descriptions that linger and evoke a strong sense of place and introspection. That said, the pacing is undeniably slow. At times, I wished for a bit more urgency or tension to propel the narrative forward. But I also recognize that the stillness is part of the book’s charm — it invites reflection rather than reaction.The pandemic references do add realism and context but I suspect they’ll date the book faster than necessary. The emotional truths here are timeless, and I wonder if anchoring them so firmly to a specific moment might limit their reach over time.