Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf

This exquisite novel explores the human need for love, no matter our age; that deep yearning to be seen, and heard and held.

Addie Moore and Louis Waters are in their seventies and have both lost their partners. They live in the same neighbourhood but have never been close. One night, Addie knocks on Louis’s door with a proposal that will change both their lives.

In 179 pages, Haruf writes a book about two lonely people connecting and enriching their lives. It’s about taking risks; that leap of faith. ‘Who would have thought at this time in our lives that we’d still have something like this. That it turns out we’re not finished with changes and excitements. And not all dried up in body and spirit.’

It’s tender and heartbreaking. And I can’t recommend it highly enough.

Reviewed by Gaby Meares
Murder on a Monday Reading Group