A review of “The Things We Never Say” in 100 words by Catherine Stover
Of the four ways a story can convey information—action, dialogue, description, and commentary—Elizabeth Strout excels in the most difficult one: commentary. It’s the hottest spice, and calibrating the right amount is an art. I think the most resonant lines in this novel are the commentary. She gives it to us straight: “She was unaware – even after thirty-four years of married life – of the deep pockets of sensitivity that Artie had. And why did she not know? Because she herself did not have those particular sensitivities . . .” Readers are privy to hidden truths. I predict this book will win awards.
Work cited:
Strout, Elizabeth. The Things We Never Say. Random House, 2026, p. 19.