This book is emotionally striking and beautifully written. I do not cry often, but I was close to tears multiple times.

The author strikes at the core of human experience through many phases of life. The subtle details that remind you of what it’s like to be a child, what it’s like to be lonely, what it’s like to be irrevocably bonded to someone, are so familiar and beautiful.

Although the characters often don’t speak to one another like average Americans do, their actions and personalities are so real and grounded in their flaws. They may make you hate them sometimes, but not nearly as much as you will love them. 

It would be a five star read for me, with the exception of a single chapter. Without revealing too much, the Pioneers segment is a dull valley interrupting two emotional highs. It slowed down the experience for me.

That said, it won’t stop me from recommending this book to everyone I know.