Book Review: The Good Luck of Right Now

Book: The Good Luck of Right Now by Matthew Quick

Source: Library

Rating: 4 1/2 stars

Review:

This is a very charming story that follows 39 year old Bartholomew Neil as he goes through life following the death of his mother. Bartholomew seemed to have a problem with fitting in socially and perhaps was dealing with some sort of developmental issues. But regardless he had such a good heart and always tried to see the good in the world.

While sorting through his mother's dresser drawer, Bartholomew found a fan letter from actor Richard Gere that was sent to his mother. Finding that letter had Bartholomew feeling as if this was some sort of sign that perhaps Mr. Gere could help guide his life in a way.

He begins writing to Mr. Gere (although it's not clear if he actually mails these letters but writing these letters were definitely something that helps him) detailing his life as it changes. There quite a few people who enter his life beside family friend Father McNamee (who has a few problems of his own), the first is his grief counselor Wendy, who also seems to be having problems as well. The second and third are brother and sister, Max (who he met at group therapy) and Elizabeth (or The Girlbrarian who he saw working at the library and that's what he used to call her before he actually met her).

This was an interesting tale of a socially awkward guy who's trying to figure out his life now that his mother isn't there. He finds out a lot about himself along the way and discovers a secret that helps shape him even more.

I truly found this story to be funny and delightful because although Bartholomew wouldn't be considered "normal" he wouldn't let others define him either. I found the other characters to be colorful and interesting because like Bartholomew they were misfits and didn't quite fit into what's considered normal but I like them.

I'm glad I took a chance on reading this book because it was truly lovely.