So Long, See You Tomorrow

Book Description

On an Illinois farm in the 1920s, a man is murdered, and in the same moment the tenous friendship between two lonely boys comes to an end. In telling their interconnected stories, American Book Award winner William delivers a masterfully restrained and magically evocative meditation on the past. "A small, perfect novel."--Washington Post Book World.

Customer Reviews:

Reconstructing a lost world.......2007-06-28

William Maxwell, in So Long, See You Tomorrow, performs one of the prime directives of literature, reconstructing a lost world. And Maxwell is patient and rigorous. We get the feeling, when reading this novel, that Maxwell is writing his work more to assuage his sense of loss than to inform or entertain us. This gives this novel almost the feel of a diary or memoir not meant for public review, or to be kept in a drawer until after the death of the novelist. And then pain of the loss is there, exposed, without mitigation; the young narrator walking with his hand around the hip of his father, who is pacing around the parlor in grief over his dead wife. The middle age narrator emerging from his psychiatrist's office overflowing with tears at the memory, secure in his knowledge that he can cry on a street in New York City with the greatest of anonymity. These are emotions men and women never surmount. This is raw stuff, but presented with the deft artistry, with the most patient care, and all in 135 pages.

Somewhat dull and unsatisfying .......2007-01-11

Somewhat dull and unsatisfying, like some other "literary" works I've read which don't hole my interest, don't resolve problems, swimming endlessly in the inner thoughts of a person with no action or only references to previous actions. I enjoyed his 'They Came Like Swallows' because it was very satisfying, but this is too "literary" for me in the sense that it appears to be more about the writer's writing ability than the actual story.

The Smells of Home.......2006-12-09

I should have known from the cover of this book that it was not going to appeal to those, like me, with no patience for a long, drawn-out old fashioned story of childhood memories of the 1920s. No, no, no. And I had fair warning from that sepia toned photograph of clouds above the farm. Or is it a photo? It's so softedged it might easily be an etching by Fuseli or perhaps, oh, what is the name of that woman my cousin used to love with her tender drawings of cats and butter churns? Oh I know, Tasha Tudor. Anyhow, William Maxwell had harder things on his mind that dealing with cats and butter churns when he saw down and wrote SO LONG, SEE YOU TOMORROW, which was regarded as one of the big literary events of 1980. What a sea change in attitude between then and now! Now the fiction editor of THE NEW YORKER might write a book and get it well reviewed, but people wouldn't necessarily canonize him or her, especially if the book of memory is dull and puzzlingly limp. You could write a story of two boys who were best friends in rural Illinois--why, my desk chair could write such a book--and yet when Maxwell spoke, people really coughed nervously as though they were experiencing the second coming of, oh I don't know, Glenway Wescott. He was a stylist above all, so don't come to SLSYT expecting the conventional virtues you'd get from a book, a strong plot, interesting characters, or memorable scenes.

From youth he had been accustomed to issuing crypto-homoerotic little "novels" like THE FOLDED LEAF and everytime he did, Sylvia Townsend Warner or Eudora Welty or someone would bow down as though to a great pagan idol of fiction. For simply put, he was the man. The narrator of SLSYT is now an elderly, doddering man who has had no fun in years and whose life has been spoiled forever by the memory of betraying little Cletus in the school system of Illinois way back when, when he "cut" Cletus in the hall, not even acknowledging his existence, for the simple crime of having been the son of a man implicated in a notorious murder case of the period.

It would be interesting to know if something like this case ever really occurred in 1920s heartland society. It had to be something strong, perhaps there had to be a murder involved, and Maxwell settled on a crime of passion. Our narrator had so many things taken away from him that for awhile, he toyed with running away. Maxwell wisely makes some canny observations on the tragedy of youth subtraction, including this one, which my neighbor loved and marked in green highlighter, "Whether they are part of home or home is part of them is not a question children are prepared to answer. Having taken away the dog, take away the kitchen--the smell of something good in the oven for dinner. Also the smell of washday, of wool drying on the wooden rack. Of ashes. Of soup simmering by the stove. Take away the patient old horse waiting by the pasture fence." Even when grown up, are we yet prepared to answer even the simplest question? If not, "so long," as one boy said to the other. "See you tomorrow."

Hall of Fame.......2006-07-26

This book is a gem. It centers on two acts of betrayal, one large, one not--yet, the small act of unkindness has remained with its perpetrator all his life. Wisdom seeps out of the pores of this novel. And I must add that it's heartbreaking to read reviews like the one below by "JMack" who believes that the book "does not deliver"--heartbreaking to think of how many other sublime works of literature he hasn't gotten. Sad. In any case, do yourself a great favor and read Maxwell [who was, all his adult life, a fiction editor at The New Yorker]. After this one you can read, TIME WILL DARKEN IT and the volume of collected stories published near the end of his long life.

My favorite novella, a truly literary gem.......2006-05-31

William Maxwell was an editor for many years at the New Yorker. Celebrated as a writer's writer, his spare, eloquent style has often been overlooked in the past few decades of flashy or sensationalized fiction. Maxwell is the real deal. This book has haunted me since I first read it in the late 80's. Interested readers should also consider its prelude, They Came Like Swallows.

Time Will Darken It; The Chateau; So Long, See You Tomorrow

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Time Will Darken It; The Chateau; So Long, See You Tomorrow
William Maxwell
Manufacturer: Quality Paperback Book Club
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000FT64EW

So Long See You Tomorrow: Reading & Interview

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So Long See You Tomorrow: Reading & Interview
William Maxwell
Manufacturer: American Audio Prose Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette

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Sony WMFX479 Walkman

ASIN: 1556444222

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Time Will Darken it the Chateau So Long See You Tomorrow
William Maxwell
Manufacturer: QP
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000NZRH3K

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So Long, See You Tomorrow
William Maxwell
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000O5VYKQ

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So Long, See You Tomorrow
William Maxwell
Manufacturer: Harvill Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000K2HJ02

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So Long, See You Tomorrow
William Maxwell
Manufacturer: Ballantine Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OVSF34

Customer Reviews:

Growing Old Gracefully!.......2006-06-11

In the 9th book in the Lucy Stone Mystery Series, it's time for a celebration. Miss Tilley, Tinker Cove's oldest resident and former librarian is turning 90-years-old and the town prepares for a large party. However, a damper is quickly put on the celebration plans when the town's senior attorney, Sherman Cobb, is found dead from an apparent suicide. His partner has a difficult time believing Sherman would have shot himself and implores Lucy to help him look into Sherman's life. She pokes around his home, and his office, and although she believes he would never have committed suicide, the police fail to take her thoughts seriously. Lucy quickly becomes distracted when Miss Tilley has a long-lost niece arrive in town. The niece, Shirley, swiftly takes over at Miss Tilley's house, and starts preventing Lucy and caregiver Rachel from visiting. Quickly becoming suspicious, Lucy and Rachel continue to try to visit their long-time friend. It is not long before Lucy is overwhelmed with work for the town paper, and it doesn't help that her son is flunking out of college. Add to this a co-ed sleepover party for her teenage daughter, and a fall out of a window for husband, Bill, and Lucy is ready for a long vacation on a tropical island. And don't even mention the gray hair and wrinkles that Lucy has recently spotted...

I have enjoyed each of the Lucy Stone mysteries, and this one did not disappoint. Lucy is a character that a lot of woman can relate to. In this installment, she is worried about getting older...and tries to find a "miracle" cream that will make the wrinkles vanish (the results are far from satisfactory, but highly amusing!). She struggles with her teenager regarding her birthday sleepover, and deals with her oldest son doing poorly in college. It was nice to see that Bill wasn't as grumpy as in previous installments (finally!), and that she is learning how to stand up for herself with her friends instead of getting roped into every project. This book, like all books in the series, is a light, quick read.

If you enjoy the Jane Jeffry series by Jill Churchill, give this series a try. The 1st book in the series is called "Mistletoe Murder". Enjoy!

Another waste of money..........2004-08-28

This book, like the others in this series that I have read, can hardly be termed "murder mysteries." The protagonist, Lucy Stone, never seem to solve the crimes. Instead, she accidnetly blunders into trouble and the murderer then promptly attacks or kidnaps her.

Like may readers, a book is as escape for me into another world. Lucy Stone's world is one I do not intend to visit again. Her harried supermom performance, coupled with an inability to say no, makes her such a victim that I end up rooting for the bad guys. Her children are lazy brats who manage to get into all sorts of trouble. Her husband is insecure and selfish. Her friends think nothing of imposing on her. If reading this book is a "break," it's a painful one.

Save your money.

Series Going Downhill.......2004-01-26

When this series started, it was entertaining because Lucy and her family seemed to normal. Now it's just getting stupid.

Lucy has turned into nothing but a whining, complaining buttinsky. The police have told her to keep her nose out of their investigations and so has her husband. Yet she keeps sticking it into things that don't concern her, putting herself in danger, for absolutely no realistic reason at all.

Ms. Tilley has been a fixture in this series since the start. I found it highly unbelievable that no one in town was real concerned about obvious con artists showing up and moving in with her, other than Lucy and Rachel. And it was even more unbelievable to me that they didn't try harder to get in to see her or find out what was really going on.

This book also seemed too "busy," with too many stupid little things going on. Way too much time was given to Sara's birthday party, which turned out to be nothing. Lucy's new obsession with exercise and her looks became downright annoying. And I can only assume all the little Toby stuff was leading up to the next book.

If the author is starting to run out of ways to believably keep her amateur sleuth involved in cases, perhaps it's time to hang this series up.

Hope this is the end of the series!.......2003-12-18

What an absolutely horrible book: ridiculous plotlines; characters you want to smack for being so stupid, mean or selfish; and a sense of "Thank God this book is ended" when you're finished!

Not this time.......2003-08-09

I had been a big fan of Leslie Meier's other Lucy Stone books.
They provided a light, lesurely read for cozy mystery fans.
Unfortunately with The Birthday Party Murder, Meier abandons
her attention to the mystery and takes her audience on a
heinous ride through her heroine's mind. Throughout the book,
the reader is subjected to Lucy's trials and tribulations.
Her plights with overeating, weight, husband, cranky boss,
pre-teen daughter and lazy college son are so countless,
the book starts to feel like a novel adaptation of The
Jerry Springer Show. Meier needs to stick to her plot and
how her character's relate to the murder. In the past,
Lucy was a warm, humorous character because of her
insecurities and knack for getting into trouble. Here,
she comes off more like a complainer who can't stop whining.
I really like Leslie Meier writing style and feel she'll write
more good books, The Birthday Party Murder simply isn't one
of them.

Leslie Meier: 7 Lucy Stone Mysteries (Back To School Murder, Birthday Party Murder, Trick or Treat Murder, Turkey Day Murder, Mistletoe Murder, Valentine Murder and Wedding Day Murder)

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Leslie Meier: 7 Lucy Stone Mysteries (Back To School Murder, Birthday Party Murder, Trick or Treat Murder, Turkey Day Murder, Mistletoe Murder, Valentine Murder and Wedding Day Murder)
Leslie Meier
Manufacturer: Kensington Mystery
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000VWHL9U

Product Description

Wonderful Mysteries

Customer Reviews:

An excellent read! A must for Deitz fans........1998-11-14

Calvin releases an evil into this world and then has to battle it...the story is engrossing and keeps you on the edge of your seat. You will find yourself hating to put it down. This is one of the best of the series Mr. Deitz had brought to life!

Wordwright, Sunshaker's, Stoneskin's Revenge - Set of Three Books

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Wordwright, Sunshaker's, Stoneskin's Revenge - Set of Three Books
Tom Deitz
Manufacturer: Avon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000TPJPJS

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Informative, Funny and Practical, a guys perspective.

An Awesome Read for anyone wanting to live their best life

cloaca maxima

Outstanding!

Serious measures for a serious subject -- written with humor

Detox for Life: Your Bottom Line-It's Your Colon or Your Life
Loree Taylor Jordan
Manufacturer: Madison Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0967987865

Book Description

Addressing a life-threatening subject with sensitivity and humor, this book brings detoxification and colon cleansing to the public forefront. With increasing cancer rates, the high toxicity of our environment, and shelves upon shelves of additive-laden foods in supermarkets, there has never been a more appropriate time to discuss the benefits of health management. Explained in detail are the impact and consequences of autointoxication and digestive maladies. Also discussed are reasons for body cleansing through colonics, enemas, and herbal remedies.

Customer Reviews:

Informative, Funny and Practical, a guys perspective........2007-06-18

Like most men I avoid the doctor and don't always listen to my body or wife when I should, and I shrug off the little aches and pains that could be signals the body is trying to tell me something... Well, this handily little information packed book will help you to avoid doctor visits, especially the most feared by men, the ones for their backside.

It's an easy read that give insight and practical information that is easy to implement and logical.

Jon

An Awesome Read for anyone wanting to live their best life.......2007-03-20

A great book and funny read! Loree really knows her stuff. This book has everything you need to know about detoxing the body. I would highly recommend it to anyone who has questions and aren't sure what to do when they want to start detoxing.

cloaca maxima.......2003-10-22

This book contains about fifteen percent useful information. The rest is made up of stories about colon cleansing, the politics of same, testimonials, etc. While the author's enthusiasm is hard to beat, she only touches on the basis of a clean system: whole grains, veggies, plant protein, etc. Colon cleansing will not undo years of abuse, and the best way to avoid the consequences is by eating in a colon - friendly way, that is, like a Vegan.
Cleanse if you like - it's better than nothing, and probably won't hurt. But the optimum way to optimum health is an intelligent diet.

Outstanding!.......2003-06-24

I have known for a long time that we lead very toxic lives... but this was a bit of a wake-up call. Since Ive spent a great deal of time and energy tring to cleanse from parasites and detoxify. Anyone who found this book useful might like the ebook posted on the bodypurenow.com website as well.
This book is a must read... be prepared to rethink all your habits and make a real lifestyle change!

Serious measures for a serious subject -- written with humor.......2002-08-02

You can get a bit of a shock from this book, but you really need to know the material presented here. It's a matter of life or death. This book covers subjects like parasitic infestation (yes , it's possible), flatulence and digestive problems, constipation and bowel conditions, and even colon cleansing procedures.

Jordan says the increase in cancer rates along with our polluted environment and the additives in our food all make colon cleansing -- indeed, system cleansing -- crucial to our individual health.

Twelve medical doctors support her theories of detoxification and there are illustrations, cartoons and diagrams to emphasize points.

This really is an important book, especially if you're "of an age," for as we get older, taking extra precautions for our health becomes more and more important.

Book Description

In Sweet Basil, Garlic, Tomatoes, and Chives, Diana Shaw has created irresistible vegetarian soups and salads, hearty main courses, and delicious desserts inspired by the culinary traditions of two bountiful regions: Tuscany and Provence.

The cuisines of Tuscany and Provence are fresh, fast, and affordable. Historically they are resourceful peasant food, relying heavily on vegetables and grains, which make them an ideal subject for the author of Vegetarian Entertaining. Whether a stew, gratin, pasta, pizza, or pastry, each dish in Sweet Basil, Garlic, Tomatoes, and Chives takes full advantage of the herbs and produce these regions are renowned for, calls for no meat at all.

Divided into seven chapters, from sauces to desserts, this book includes some 130 time-honored recipes, combining herbs, grains, produce, and cheeses. Each dish in this collection is delicious, health-conscious, and easy to prepare, from Potato and Vegetable Soup to Tomato and Goat Cheese Salad with Basil, from Onion Tart to Creme Brulee.

Sprinkled throughout the book are warm and charming recollections from the author's journeys to the two regions. On ever page of Sweet Basil, Garlic, Tomatoes, and Chives, you will relish her tales of Tuscany and Provence, and savor tile vegetable dishes the seasons bring to hand.

Book Description

Mosaic-making is the craft craze of recent years, and understandably so. While the results may look complicated, the basic technique is easy to master, allowing even beginners to create original decorative pieces for the home.

This original collection of 12 contemporary projects for the home and garden teaches readers how to easily combine pebbles, stone and other natural materials to create mosaics of lasting beauty and originality. In addition to the traditional outdoor mosaic projects for garden paths and patios are mosaics that can also be incorporated into the home--in entranceways, kitchens and fireplace hearths. From a quick-and-easy wall plaque to a more challenging, large-scale oriental pathway, there is something for all abilities. Step-by-step, illustrated instructions, a comprehensive techniques section and beautiful photographs ensure great results.

Customer Reviews:

Great Book.......2003-04-14

I looked at many pebble mosaic books before deciding on this one.
Has many hints and ideas for the beginner, with marvelous step-by-step instructions. Her mosaic patterns and use of material are some of the most creative I have seen.

Pebble Mosaics: Step-by-step projects for inside & out

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Pebble Mosaics: Step-by-step projects for inside & out
Ann Frith
Manufacturer: David & Charles Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Mosaic | Other Media | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0715318993

Book Description

Combining the popular craft subject of mosaics in a home and garden make-over theme, this book includes original step-by-step projects and inspirational examples showing how to create mosaics using pebbles and other natural materials.

Mosaic-making is the craft craze of recent years, and understandably so. Although the results may look complicated, the basic technique is easy to master, allowing even beginners to create original decorative pieces for the home. Talented designer Ann Frith has drawn on the ancient tradition of pebble mosaic to devise 12 contemporary projects using pebbles and other natural materials such as broken slate, flint and glass.

Traditionally used as outdoor decoration on garden paths and floors, Ann also shows how it can be incorporated in the home--in entrance ways, conservatories, bathrooms or on fire hearths. In addition to the detailed projects, inspirational examples of pebble mosaic in both new and historical settings, and drawings by the author showing further ideas and colorways, set the scene for further experimentation.

Customer Reviews:

The First Good Book about an Important Director--& His World.......2001-01-03

Those who are troubled by academic writing may be a little put off by this book--but only just a little. Particularly in the opening pages, the authors go to great pains to make the usual postmodernist genuflections: "how can we possibly know anything?" "do we exist?" etc. Once you get past that, their reconstruction of Micheaux's career and films is wonderful. They not only reconstruct his life as an artist--in the process separating a great deal of fact from self-generated fiction--but they also reconstruct his cultural setting and the context in which his films are released. To my taste, they're a little too easy on Micheaux for his fairly reflectionist notion of cinematic realism. However, they almost convinced that I'm wrong--which is the highest compliment you can pay any work of scholarship.

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