New York Times Literary Treat of the Week.....

Glass, Julia. The Widower's Tale. Pantheon Books.

The title makes one think of Chaucer yet it is unlikely that any of the Canterbury pilgrims could come up with a story to rival that of Percy Darling. The cranky former Harvard librarian who complains about how his hometown of Matlock, Massachusetts is becoming a haven for the rich is at a personal crossroads. Percy has permitted the upscale "Elves and Fairies" preschool to use the historical landmark barn on his property. For years it had been a memoriam to Percy's wife Poppy, who held dance classes there before her tragic death for which Percy holds himself to blame. Yet he allows in the preschool and necessary barn renovations provided they employ his fortyish daughter Clover, who is in a custody battle and wants a satisfying job. A surprising love affair with a single "Elves and Fairies" mother plus his beloved grandson's involvement with an environmental group leaning towards violence is just part of what Glass has in store for Percy Darling and all within his orbit.

Also by Julia Glass at Merrick Library;

I See You Everywhere
Three Junes (also available in Book Club in a Bag format)
The Whole World Over

Reviewed by Librarian, Bob.