THE DUTCH HOUSE

In this spellbinding novel, Danny and Maeve are two siblings growing up in a grand estate known as the Dutch House - until their family circumstances change and they are exiled with nothing but their special bond between them. This story is told with so much intimacy and authenticity that it makes us feel almost nostalgic for a history that is not our own. It is a kind of immersion novel, where detailed descriptions of drapery cords and antique butter dishes transport us within the Dutch House’s walls, reverberating with the history of the family that lived there. I especially loved the way adults come to see their parents as individuals, each with their own hopes, disappointments, flaws and unique capacity to love.

I listened to The Dutch House on audio for most of the book, and fell a little bit in love with Tom Hanks’s narration as Danny. The audio version felt more like a conversation than a book, and made for a truly beautiful way to experience this story. The first third of the book was the strongest for me, but the Dutch House as a whole was an exercise in beautiful storytelling: Ann Patchett captures families like no one else. And that cover!

The Dutch House has quite a few Thanksgiving references, including a chance encounter on a train home for the holiday that proves life changing. I always find Thanksgiving has an air of wonder - there’s something unifying and a bit magical knowing millions of people are enjoying the same meal, isn’t there? So for this book I made some Thanksgiving favorites (all homemade except the cranberries). Feeling pretty thankful for this Bookstagram community! So many wonderful, talented, kind and clever individuals here! I feel fortunate to share our love of books, and I appreciate you! Happy Thanksgiving!