Moving On, penned by Larry McMurtry, is a captivating novel that delves into the universal themes of personal growth, the restless pursuit of purpose, and the complexities of human existence. Centered around three main characters, the story unfolds to explore their intertwining paths and their individual quests for meaning.
Patsy Carpenter, a dissatisfied housewife, yearns for adventure outside of her small town. Jim Woodward, a college professor, grapples with the unexpected loss of his wife, which shatters his life. Gideon Fry, a cowboy and rodeo performer, becomes entangled in a complicated love triangle. Together, these flawed and relatable characters embark on a journey of self-discovery, as they confront their own desires and fears.
McMurtry's greatest strength lies in his ability to create complex characters, each reflecting the richness and flaws inherent in human nature. Through Patsy, Jim, and Gideon, he paints a realistic portrait of individuals who navigate personal struggles in search of something more fulfilling. Themes of love, loss, and the yearning for a life beyond the ordinary permeate their stories.
Available on Audible
The author's engaging and vivid writing style transports readers into the lives of the characters and the landscapes of the American West. McMurtry's descriptive prowess brings to life the rodeo arenas, small towns, and open plains, immersing readers in a tangible and evocative world. His keen observations on relationships and the human condition add depth and nuance to the story, elevating it beyond a simple tale of personal journeys.
Moving On not only explores individual growth, but also reflects on the changing dynamics of American society in the 1960s. McMurtry skillfully captures the tensions between traditional values and the rapid social and cultural changes of the era. Through the interactions between the characters, the novel offers a nuanced insight into the collective experience of a generation.
What are readers saying?
Moving On, written by the highly acclaimed author Larry McMurtry, has received a mixed reaction from readers. The novel centers around three primary characters – Patsy Carpenter, her ex-husband Jim, and her current partner Hank – as they navigate complex relationships and search for happiness.
Numerous reviewers have praised McMurtry's talent for creating realistic and relatable characters. They found the characters to be well-developed and appreciated the depth and complexity that McMurtry infused into their lives. These readers felt a profound emotional connection to the characters, becoming fully invested in their individual journeys.
The plot of Moving On has also garnered much commendation. Reviewers found the exploration of midlife crises and the examination of themes like love, loss, and self-discovery to be poignant and thought-provoking. McMurtry's writing style, characterized by its simplicity and authenticity, received high praise and added to the overall enjoyability of the book.
There were, however, some readers who felt that the story's pacing was slow and dragged on at certain points. They found the book to be meandering and devoid of a clear direction. Additionally, some reviewers struggled to fully engage with the characters, feeling disconnected from their experiences.
Furthermore, a few readers expressed concerns regarding the portrayal of women in the novel. They believed that the female characters were solely defined by their relationships with men and lacked autonomy. This aspect of the story left some readers disappointed, yearning for more nuanced depictions of women from McMurtry.
MovingOnBook LifeAfterAdversity SelfGrowthJourney