Can't Wait to Get to Heaven : Book Review

"Can't Wait to Get to Heaven" by Fannie Flagg is a heartwarming and funny novel that takes place in the fictional town of Elmwood Springs, Missouri. It tells the story of Elner Shimfissle, a lively 90-year-old woman who accidentally finds herself in heaven after a ham-related mishap. While Elner's friends and family struggle to accept her sudden absence, they reminisce about her vibrant life and the impact she had on them. Filled with themes of love, friendship, and the power of community, Flagg skillfully weaves together past and present, creating a captivating narrative.

One of the novel's strengths is Flagg's ability to bring her characters to life. Elner Shimfissle is a delightful protagonist, full of energy and charm, who leaves a lasting impression on everyone she encounters. Flagg also introduces a cast of quirky and lovable characters, from Elner's well-meaning but nosy nephew to her eccentric best friend and even a talkative parrot.

Flagg's writing style is light and engaging, filled with humor and wit. The book is sprinkled with amusing anecdotes and funny moments that keep readers entertained throughout. However, it also explores deeper themes, reminding us of life's fragility and the importance of cherishing every moment. Flagg seamlessly blends humor and thoughtfulness, creating a story that is both entertaining and profound.

The small town setting of Elmwood Springs adds to the charm of the story. Flagg vividly portrays the tight-knit community, where everybody knows each other's business yet genuinely cares. The town itself becomes a character, with its quirks and sense of unity playing a significant role in Elner's journey.

In conclusion, "Can't Wait to Get to Heaven" is a heartwarming and uplifting novel that will leave readers with a smile on their face and warmth in their hearts. Fannie Flagg's masterful storytelling and memorable characters make this book both entertaining and thought-provoking, capturing the essence of small-town life and the joy of human connection.

What are readers saying?

"Can't Wait to Get to Heaven" by Fannie Flagg has garnered a positive reception from readers. The novel tells the heartwarming story of Elner Shimfissle, an elderly woman in Elmwood Springs, Missouri, whose accidental fall from a ladder takes her on an unexpected journey to the afterlife and back again.

Readers have praised Fannie Flagg's charming and witty writing style, noting its perfect capture of the small-town atmosphere of Elmwood Springs and the vibrancy of its characters. Flagg's ability to inject humor into the narrative has been highly appreciated, making the book a delightful and lighthearted read. Many readers were particularly fond of the quirky and endearing protagonist, Elner, and her entertaining exploits and interactions with other residents of the town.

The novel delves into themes such as family, community, and the meaning of life, which have resonated with readers and garnered praise for its depth and thought-provoking nature. Flagg skillfully blends humor with these profound philosophical questions, creating a well-rounded and engaging reading experience.

Some reviewers also highlighted the nostalgic aspects of the book, as Flagg delves into Elner's past and the history of Elmwood Springs. This added layer of storytelling has been commended for providing readers with a sense of time and place, enhancing their immersion in the story.

While a few readers felt that the story took some time to fully engage them, with a slower start before gaining momentum, the majority of reviewers found the pacing to be appropriate, building up to a satisfying and heartwarming conclusion.

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