What do you think?
The Left and the Lucky
The moving, large-hearted story of a young boy in danger of slipping through society's cracks and the unlikely father figure who takes him under his wing.
'And try to breathe, man. You gotta remember to breathe. You won't get so panicky if you can remember that.'
Eddie Wilkens runs his own house-painting business. Forty-something and living alone, he just wants to take life one day at a time. When his eight-year-old neighbour, Russell, starts hanging around, Eddie sees that this small kid - with his single mother working nights and his violent older brother - is struggling to keep his head above water, and so tries to help.
Equal parts heart wrenching and uplifting, The Left and the Lucky is a portrait of this unusual friendship - the ways hurt shatters people and the compassionate acts that can, maybe, hold some of those pieces together.
'And try to breathe, man. You gotta remember to breathe. You won't get so panicky if you can remember that.'
Eddie Wilkens runs his own house-painting business. Forty-something and living alone, he just wants to take life one day at a time. When his eight-year-old neighbour, Russell, starts hanging around, Eddie sees that this small kid - with his single mother working nights and his violent older brother - is struggling to keep his head above water, and so tries to help.
Equal parts heart wrenching and uplifting, The Left and the Lucky is a portrait of this unusual friendship - the ways hurt shatters people and the compassionate acts that can, maybe, hold some of those pieces together.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2026
About the author
Willy Vlautin
22 books1,306 followersWilly Vlautin (born 1967) is an American author and the lead singer and songwriter of Portland, Oregon band Richmond Fontaine. Born and raised in Reno, Nevada, he has released nine studio albums since the late nineties with his band while he has written four novels: The Motel Life, Northline, Lean on Pete, and The Free.
Published in the US, several European and Asian countries, Vlautin's first book, The Motel Life was well received. It was an editor's choice in the New York Times Book Review and named one of the top 25 books of the year by the Washington Post.
His second, Northline was also critically hailed, and Vlautin was declared an important new American literary realist. Famed writer George Pelecanos stated that Northline was his favorite book of the decade. The first edition of this novel came with an original instrumental soundtrack performed by Vlautin and longtime bandmate Paul Brainard.
Vlautin's third novel, Lean on Pete, is the story of a 15-year-old boy who works and lives on a rundown race track in Portland, Oregon and befriends a failed race horse named Lean on Pete. The novel won two Oregon Book Awards: the Ken Kesey Award for Fiction and the Peoples Choice Award.
As a novelist, Vlautin has cited writers such as John Steinbeck, Raymond Carver, Barry Gifford, and William Kennedy as influences. HIs writing is highly evocative of the American West; all three of his novels being set in and around Oregon, Nevada and New Mexico. His books explore the circumstances and relationships of people near the bottom of America's social and economic spectrum, itinerant, and often ailed by alcohol addiction.
Published in the US, several European and Asian countries, Vlautin's first book, The Motel Life was well received. It was an editor's choice in the New York Times Book Review and named one of the top 25 books of the year by the Washington Post.
His second, Northline was also critically hailed, and Vlautin was declared an important new American literary realist. Famed writer George Pelecanos stated that Northline was his favorite book of the decade. The first edition of this novel came with an original instrumental soundtrack performed by Vlautin and longtime bandmate Paul Brainard.
Vlautin's third novel, Lean on Pete, is the story of a 15-year-old boy who works and lives on a rundown race track in Portland, Oregon and befriends a failed race horse named Lean on Pete. The novel won two Oregon Book Awards: the Ken Kesey Award for Fiction and the Peoples Choice Award.
As a novelist, Vlautin has cited writers such as John Steinbeck, Raymond Carver, Barry Gifford, and William Kennedy as influences. HIs writing is highly evocative of the American West; all three of his novels being set in and around Oregon, Nevada and New Mexico. His books explore the circumstances and relationships of people near the bottom of America's social and economic spectrum, itinerant, and often ailed by alcohol addiction.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 594 reviews
April 22, 2026
A beautiful relationship develops in this book between Eddie, a lonely, hard-working, 42-year-old housepainter, and Russell, the very sensitive 8-year-old who lives next door. Russell has a 15-year-old brother, Curtis—a bully who likes nothing more than terrorising and physically abusing his little brother. Russell is small for his age and his only real ‘friend’ is his grandmother. It’s her home that Russell, his brother and mother are living in, but she hasn’t left her bedroom in ages—except to use the bathroom—fearful as she is of her teenaged grandson. He and his delinquent mates love to torment her, too. So, where’s the mom? you might ask. Well, she “works” at a local strip bar so she's out most nights. Besides, she admits there's nothing she can do about the situation and it’s true; she’s completely lost control of Curtis.
Then, after one particularly cruel, brutal beating, Russell seeks refuge at Eddie’s place and refuses to go home as long as Curtis is there. After speaking to Russell’s mom, Eddie agrees to let him stay as long as he likes. Eddie has a friendly, big old dog called Early. When Russell stays overnight, Early sleeps with him on the bed. Russell just loves that dog.❤️🐶
Russell and Eddie’s relationship grows strong as the story digs deep over the next few months. Both enjoy the arrangement, probably because they’re each getting something they need from it. Russell's growing more confident by the day, and Eddie’s learning to relax and take life a little slower. Russell even loves to help with Eddie’s jobs. He’s becoming the best little brush cleaner around!
This book is packed with excitement! So much happens from the first page to the last that you might want to finish it in one go. I’d suggest you take it slow, though, to savour every moment. It is absolutely the BEST Willy Vlautin novel I've read yet and I’ve seen many of the same sentiments on-line! People are just loving this novel!
A big part of Vlautin’s appeal, IMO, is that he writes straight from his heart and, very often, from his memory. His writing here will touch something in your heart or your memory, too, because it’s so incredibly REAL!! Unlike some books we’ve all read from time to time,😏 you will never put a Vlautin book down and say “Oh, come on; that would never happen!” Nope! That would never happen! He’s got something very special. His stories are real and they flow effortlessly! Do yourself a favour, and pick up one of his books—any one of them will do. I swear, you will never feel let down reading a book he’s written. It’s just not possible!
And one final note to the author:
If you're interested, a soundtrack was released with the publication. It’s available on Spotify as Vlautin’s band, The Delines, new album titled The Set Up (Willy writes the songs and plays guitar)! Here’s the link: https://open.spotify.com/album/12OFzP...
5 “True–friends–always–have–your–back–no–matter–what” stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Then, after one particularly cruel, brutal beating, Russell seeks refuge at Eddie’s place and refuses to go home as long as Curtis is there. After speaking to Russell’s mom, Eddie agrees to let him stay as long as he likes. Eddie has a friendly, big old dog called Early. When Russell stays overnight, Early sleeps with him on the bed. Russell just loves that dog.❤️🐶
Russell and Eddie’s relationship grows strong as the story digs deep over the next few months. Both enjoy the arrangement, probably because they’re each getting something they need from it. Russell's growing more confident by the day, and Eddie’s learning to relax and take life a little slower. Russell even loves to help with Eddie’s jobs. He’s becoming the best little brush cleaner around!
This book is packed with excitement! So much happens from the first page to the last that you might want to finish it in one go. I’d suggest you take it slow, though, to savour every moment. It is absolutely the BEST Willy Vlautin novel I've read yet and I’ve seen many of the same sentiments on-line! People are just loving this novel!
A big part of Vlautin’s appeal, IMO, is that he writes straight from his heart and, very often, from his memory. His writing here will touch something in your heart or your memory, too, because it’s so incredibly REAL!! Unlike some books we’ve all read from time to time,😏 you will never put a Vlautin book down and say “Oh, come on; that would never happen!” Nope! That would never happen! He’s got something very special. His stories are real and they flow effortlessly! Do yourself a favour, and pick up one of his books—any one of them will do. I swear, you will never feel let down reading a book he’s written. It’s just not possible!
And one final note to the author:
If you're interested, a soundtrack was released with the publication. It’s available on Spotify as Vlautin’s band, The Delines, new album titled The Set Up (Willy writes the songs and plays guitar)! Here’s the link: https://open.spotify.com/album/12OFzP...
5 “True–friends–always–have–your–back–no–matter–what” stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 2, 2026
4.5, rounded up
Set in Portland, Oregon, this story centers around a 42-year-old house painter whose wife has left him and his 8-year-old neighbor whose family is struggling in just about every way possible.
Struggling is the word that best describes the characters in this novel by Willy Vlautin. Struggling financially, emotionally, or physically, or all three. Down and out and no way up.
One of these characters:
Having someone need you so you don't give up. That's the luck. ...I have trouble getting out of bed. But the thing is, I don't have to get out of bed. No one cares either way, so I don't.
This novel shows that even the smallest connection with another person can be meaningful. Heartrending, yet hopeful. A bonus for me is that all of the places featured in the story are real places in Portland. That kind of authenticity resonates for me.
Set in Portland, Oregon, this story centers around a 42-year-old house painter whose wife has left him and his 8-year-old neighbor whose family is struggling in just about every way possible.
Struggling is the word that best describes the characters in this novel by Willy Vlautin. Struggling financially, emotionally, or physically, or all three. Down and out and no way up.
One of these characters:
Having someone need you so you don't give up. That's the luck. ...I have trouble getting out of bed. But the thing is, I don't have to get out of bed. No one cares either way, so I don't.
This novel shows that even the smallest connection with another person can be meaningful. Heartrending, yet hopeful. A bonus for me is that all of the places featured in the story are real places in Portland. That kind of authenticity resonates for me.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a way to end 2025, and begin 2026 with another incredible read from one of my favourite writers.
The Left and the Lucky follows house painter Eddie, as he takes in 8-year-old Russell, struggling with his absent mother and violent older brother. The relationship that develops between them will move you in all kinds of ways - of course, it is heartwrenching in true Vlautin style, but there is also so much joy, hope and friendship in this novel that you can't help but see the world in a better light than when you started.
I have to also give mention to my other favourite character - Houston, Eddie's housepainting partner who may or may not show up to work, depending on how much booze he's had the night before. The way Eddie (and soon Russell) keep a watch over him when many would've given him up for good, is beautiful. Houston also delivers some incredible comedic moments here, making this possibly the first Vlautin novel to not only make me tear up but also laugh out loud!
The things that Russell has to endure from his brother Curtis and neglectful mother, are very harrowing, particularly in the first half of this novel. But Vlautin is always on the side of the down and outers, the ones struggling through life who can't catch a break, who made idiotic choices because it's all they know - and Curtis is no exception here. You will feel sympathetic for him as much as you hate him.
And Eddie - what can I say about sweet Eddie? A guy who seems fairly put together, loyal and dependable, who takes what life throws at him and carries on, because what else is there? But you soon realise Eddie has his own shit going on, he's just pretty good at hiding it - his wife left him for another man, and he still grieves the loss of his sister from years ago. His relationship with Russell isn't just for Russell's benefit - it's filling a very deep void in his own life too.
Once again, Vlautin has created another incredible set of characters you will find hard to leave behind. The Left and the Lucky explores the many different ways people cope with the hand that life has dealt them - some are lucky and make it through, others simply can't face another day, and then there are those left behind, forgotten.
A new favourite Willy Vlautin novel for me. How lucky we are to have him!
The Left and the Lucky follows house painter Eddie, as he takes in 8-year-old Russell, struggling with his absent mother and violent older brother. The relationship that develops between them will move you in all kinds of ways - of course, it is heartwrenching in true Vlautin style, but there is also so much joy, hope and friendship in this novel that you can't help but see the world in a better light than when you started.
I have to also give mention to my other favourite character - Houston, Eddie's housepainting partner who may or may not show up to work, depending on how much booze he's had the night before. The way Eddie (and soon Russell) keep a watch over him when many would've given him up for good, is beautiful. Houston also delivers some incredible comedic moments here, making this possibly the first Vlautin novel to not only make me tear up but also laugh out loud!
The things that Russell has to endure from his brother Curtis and neglectful mother, are very harrowing, particularly in the first half of this novel. But Vlautin is always on the side of the down and outers, the ones struggling through life who can't catch a break, who made idiotic choices because it's all they know - and Curtis is no exception here. You will feel sympathetic for him as much as you hate him.
And Eddie - what can I say about sweet Eddie? A guy who seems fairly put together, loyal and dependable, who takes what life throws at him and carries on, because what else is there? But you soon realise Eddie has his own shit going on, he's just pretty good at hiding it - his wife left him for another man, and he still grieves the loss of his sister from years ago. His relationship with Russell isn't just for Russell's benefit - it's filling a very deep void in his own life too.
Once again, Vlautin has created another incredible set of characters you will find hard to leave behind. The Left and the Lucky explores the many different ways people cope with the hand that life has dealt them - some are lucky and make it through, others simply can't face another day, and then there are those left behind, forgotten.
A new favourite Willy Vlautin novel for me. How lucky we are to have him!
April 28, 2026
Few writers portray the working man and those on the fringes of society as tenderly and movingly as Vlautin, and this novel is a beauty. Eddie, a workaholic 40-ish housepainter whose wife recently left him, can’t help but notice that Russell, the eight-year-old kid who lives next door, spends a lot of time hanging out in Eddie’s back yard. Turns out that the little boy is afraid to be at home, where he’d be subject to the cruelty and threatened violence of his 15-year-old half-brother, Curtis. The boys’ mother tries, but she’s often absent (she’s an exotic dancer), and her efforts just make the older boy more resentful of his little brother, who he assumes is telling on him. (He’s not. He’s much too scared to tell.) Eddie, the neighbour, soon figures out what’s going on and offers shelter to the terrified, anxious little Russell, and the two develop a wonderful relationship as Russell finds a place in Eddie’s world, among his motley crew of maddening, semi-reliable but good-hearted crew of painters. Eddie saves Russell, but Russell is just as much a saviour of Eddie. So deeply moving, without a lick of the maudlin anywhere.
April 17, 2026
Eddie may be one of my new favorites characters in a book. The world would be a better place with more Eddie’s in it.
September 6, 2026
4.5
I knew Willy Vlautin was an author for me after reading his 2021 novel The Night Always Comes a Portland noir recently adapted for film.
The Left and the Lucky , also set in Portland, is marked out by Vlautin’s unadorned style. On one hand, this is a tender “buddy story” complete with an adorable, quirky 8-year-old and a dog; on the other, there is intractable tragedy. Watching the author walk this narrative tightrope is a real pleasure.
It is hard not to fall for Russell, a child from an unstable family who is violently bullied by his older brother, Curtis. This part of the story is uncomfortable, but it paves the way for the relationship between Russell and his neighbour, Eddie, an easygoing house painter who has his own demons. This uncomplicated portrayal of an older man “rescuing” a young boy is a beautiful antidote to the sometimes pervasive idea of the toxic manosphere. However, the story avoids sentimentality and easy resolutions. It's dark but not morose.
Sad, funny, full of great characters and wonderful dialogue, it also comes with its own soundtrack - what more could you ask for :)
I knew Willy Vlautin was an author for me after reading his 2021 novel The Night Always Comes a Portland noir recently adapted for film.
The Left and the Lucky , also set in Portland, is marked out by Vlautin’s unadorned style. On one hand, this is a tender “buddy story” complete with an adorable, quirky 8-year-old and a dog; on the other, there is intractable tragedy. Watching the author walk this narrative tightrope is a real pleasure.
It is hard not to fall for Russell, a child from an unstable family who is violently bullied by his older brother, Curtis. This part of the story is uncomfortable, but it paves the way for the relationship between Russell and his neighbour, Eddie, an easygoing house painter who has his own demons. This uncomplicated portrayal of an older man “rescuing” a young boy is a beautiful antidote to the sometimes pervasive idea of the toxic manosphere. However, the story avoids sentimentality and easy resolutions. It's dark but not morose.
Sad, funny, full of great characters and wonderful dialogue, it also comes with its own soundtrack - what more could you ask for :)
November 8, 2025
Eddie and Russell will be with me from here on out. The story is all about how being wounded is not always an impediment to finding our best selves -- unless it is. The left are those who can't find a way to live with their wounds; the lucky are those who do find a way. What works for Eddie and Russell is found family. Other characters don't fare as well, since this is a novel set in the real world, and there is a glint of sympathy for them. Intention matters, though, and what we find growing between the house painter and the boy has everything to do with each bringing their best to the table. It extends on to the small crew of painters Eddie employs -- hilarious characters who had me laughing throughout. What stands at the end is a tale of tenderness and care in a world that can be unfriendly and violent. Vlautin also makes great use of Portland, Oregon, as the setting. This is already one of my favorite novels.
July 24, 2026
bittersweet novel and the unusual relationship between a painter and the boy next door who struggles with his violent older brother as both look out for each after their losses
May 23, 2026
Another beautiful and heart-wrenching story from one of my all-time favorite writers. I loved all the characters and all of the Portland scenery (specifically the St. Johns neighborhood) and the relationship between Eddie the housepainter and Russell, the eight-year-old neighbor kid who goes from abandonment and fear to a more clever kind of hope. There's a lot of humor in The Left and the Lucky but it also felt emotionally devastating at times. This might be my favorite of Willy's books since his sensational debut, The Motel Life. It's so good!
August 21, 2026
This is a slice of life story about working-class folks simply trying to keep their heads above water, namely Russell, an 8 year-old boy neglected by his mother and terrorized by his delinquent older brother, and Eddie, his 42 year-old neighbor, who is living in the aftermath of divorce and trying to keep his painting business afloat while dealing with two employees who are as much work as they are help.
Somehow, these two lonely, battered souls find each other and become friends, allies, and, ultimately, a kind of lifeline for one another. We could use a whole lot more Eddies on this planet - men who show up, lend a hand, and help kids like Russell find their way. We’d all be better for it.
This is not a plot-driven book, and that’s very much the point. It’s beautifully crafted literary fiction that takes its time, prioritizing rich, nuanced character development. This is a book about people: loneliness, survival, unlikely friendship, and the small acts of kindness that can keep someone from going under. The writing is heavily dialogue driven, which only deepens the character development. Vlautin is exceptionally skilled at creating vibrant, fully realized personalities. His characters feel palpable.
What a storyteller Willy Vlautin is. I’ll definitely be working my way through his backlist.
Somehow, these two lonely, battered souls find each other and become friends, allies, and, ultimately, a kind of lifeline for one another. We could use a whole lot more Eddies on this planet - men who show up, lend a hand, and help kids like Russell find their way. We’d all be better for it.
This is not a plot-driven book, and that’s very much the point. It’s beautifully crafted literary fiction that takes its time, prioritizing rich, nuanced character development. This is a book about people: loneliness, survival, unlikely friendship, and the small acts of kindness that can keep someone from going under. The writing is heavily dialogue driven, which only deepens the character development. Vlautin is exceptionally skilled at creating vibrant, fully realized personalities. His characters feel palpable.
What a storyteller Willy Vlautin is. I’ll definitely be working my way through his backlist.
May 8, 2026
I heard an interview with the author on NPR, and I was looking for an easy audiobook to accompany me on a trip. Book was narrated by the author, who is also a member of a rock band in Portland, and I was looking forward to a simple yet sad story with characters from the lower classes of society. Trying to balance my tendency to read complex books that often take a lot of energy to read.
While I was drawn into the tragic story of third grader Russell, and I was heartened by the goodness of his guardian Eddie, there was nothing in this book that would cause me to recommend someone else to read it. I found the ending disconcertingly inadequate, it's like the novel fizzled out because the author was tired of writing it. It would have been more interesting to see the characters develop and perhaps grow or perhaps decline over a longer period of time.
It's just me, I know I am a hypercritical judge of books, and even when I am looking for a simpler story, I still have pretty high standards.
While I was drawn into the tragic story of third grader Russell, and I was heartened by the goodness of his guardian Eddie, there was nothing in this book that would cause me to recommend someone else to read it. I found the ending disconcertingly inadequate, it's like the novel fizzled out because the author was tired of writing it. It would have been more interesting to see the characters develop and perhaps grow or perhaps decline over a longer period of time.
It's just me, I know I am a hypercritical judge of books, and even when I am looking for a simpler story, I still have pretty high standards.
June 27, 2026
När Vlautin är som bäst slår han knockout på mig. Det här är en sån bok.
June 14, 2026
Best dirty realism I have read. Vlautin is faithful to the bleak and stark world of his characters, but his compassion and ability to portray the humanity along with the hardship makes for a rewarding and satisfying read.
June 5, 2026
Just a glimpse into the lives of people that are just trying not to struggle, but keep the hope.
May 12, 2026
This is Vlautin’s 8th novel. Could it be that he is mellowing as he ages, as this isn’t as grim as he has been, and even.. he leaves the reader with a thread of hope at the end.
The principal character is Eddie Wilkens, in his forties, a painter and decorator, whose largely trouble-free days occasionally require him to deal with his unreliable and alcoholic assistant, Houston.
Eddie’s neighbour Connie is a single mother struggling to bring up her two sons. The eldest, 15 year old Curtis, violently bullies the younger, the more gentle 7 year old Russell. It isn’t long before Curtis serves time in a young offenders’ institution, though he returns a few weeks later as mean-spirited as before.
Without realising it, Eddie becomes a father figure to Russell, while attempting to help Connie keep sane amidst a chaotic family life.
As ever, Vlautin tells his story beautifully, with empathy and yet in an unflinching style. His perception of social awareness is one of his many strengths. Compellingly, the book moves towards a gruesome climax, but for once, there’s a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.
Two passages stand out as examples, though many could be chosen, and are as memorable. Firstly, in Curtis’s story as he returns from a second stay in detention, and calls at Eddie’s door. ‘Why did you choose him?’, the boy says.
And secondly, as Eddie tries to rekindle an old relationship, his ex-partner points out that whereas as many he mixes with are alone, he isn’t, as he has young Russell to care about.
Vlautin is one of our best contemporary writers.
The principal character is Eddie Wilkens, in his forties, a painter and decorator, whose largely trouble-free days occasionally require him to deal with his unreliable and alcoholic assistant, Houston.
Eddie’s neighbour Connie is a single mother struggling to bring up her two sons. The eldest, 15 year old Curtis, violently bullies the younger, the more gentle 7 year old Russell. It isn’t long before Curtis serves time in a young offenders’ institution, though he returns a few weeks later as mean-spirited as before.
Without realising it, Eddie becomes a father figure to Russell, while attempting to help Connie keep sane amidst a chaotic family life.
As ever, Vlautin tells his story beautifully, with empathy and yet in an unflinching style. His perception of social awareness is one of his many strengths. Compellingly, the book moves towards a gruesome climax, but for once, there’s a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.
Two passages stand out as examples, though many could be chosen, and are as memorable. Firstly, in Curtis’s story as he returns from a second stay in detention, and calls at Eddie’s door. ‘Why did you choose him?’, the boy says.
And secondly, as Eddie tries to rekindle an old relationship, his ex-partner points out that whereas as many he mixes with are alone, he isn’t, as he has young Russell to care about.
Vlautin is one of our best contemporary writers.
November 6, 2025
What a beautiful novel with themes of friendship, life circumstances, and midlife happenings. The theme of guilt also plays heavily into Eddie’s life which makes him very relatable. All of the characters were fascinating and well developed and it feels like I really got to know them. There’s another beautiful theme of found family and friendship that plays out on the pages and really tugged at my heart. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2026
Gutted. Willy Vlautin has become one of my favorite authors. This book brings to life the hard scrabble working class neighborhood of St. John’s, Portland Oregon.. a neighborhood I lived in. I viscerally felt the rain and industrial blocks described, as well as all of the businesses noted.
The heartfelt relationship between Eddie, a hard working house painter and Russell, the young abused boy, broke my heart and put it back together with hope and tears in the end.
The heartfelt relationship between Eddie, a hard working house painter and Russell, the young abused boy, broke my heart and put it back together with hope and tears in the end.
May 2, 2026
Although this was a quick read, the family drama was so intense that I struggled to get through it. Sibling abuse/substance abuse, child abandonment...you name it, these people experienced it.
There are two characters that bring balance to the drama but it is still VERY heavy and left me feeling it.
(Thanks to Netgalley and Harper for the ARC digital copy)
2.5 stars
There are two characters that bring balance to the drama but it is still VERY heavy and left me feeling it.
(Thanks to Netgalley and Harper for the ARC digital copy)
2.5 stars
April 21, 2026
Vlautin does it again. One of the best living American writers we have.
April 28, 2026
BOOK: 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙻𝚎𝚏𝚝 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙻𝚞𝚌𝚔𝚢: 𝙰 𝙽𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚕
AUTHOR: Willy Vlautin
PUB DATE: April 14, 2026 by @harperbooks
PAGES: 256 pages
RATING: 3.5 stars
GENRE: Friendship & Coming of Age Fiction
THANK YOU to @harperbooks for gifting me a hard copy of this book a few weeks ago. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
📖QUICK SYNOPSIS: Eddie Wilkens is a house painter in his forties whose life is quietly falling apart. His marriage is over, his help is unreliable, & he’s been carrying guilt for years. Next door, 8-year-old Russell is stuck in a tense & increasingly unsafe home with his older brother. When Russell starts spending time in Eddie’s backyard, the two slowly form an unlikely bond. Through small acts of care & friendship, they help each other find hope and a way forward from the lives they’ve been trying to survive.
✍️QUICK & SPOILER-FREE REVIEW: This was my first book to read by this author, and I was so happy to receive it from Harper. I found it to be a touching story, and in many ways it reminded me of S.A. Cosby’s stories. Growing up in a small, southern town and seeing what life throws at characters really made me appreciate the blessings in my life. There are so many lessons being taught in this book, and I really loved the MMC, Eddy. This is a moving story about connection @netgalley healing, and how the right person at the right time can change everything. This is a solid read, and I hope you enjoy it as well!
THANK YOU to @harperbooks for gifting me a hard copy of this book a few weeks ago. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
QUICK SYNOPSIS: Eddie Wilkens is a house painter in his forties whose life is quietly falling apart. His marriage is over, his help is unreliable, & he’s been carrying guilt for years. Next door, 8-year-old Russell is stuck in a tense & increasingly unsafe home with his older brother. When Russell starts spending time in Eddie’s backyard, the two slowly form an unlikely bond. Through small acts of care & friendship, they help each other find hope and a way forward from the lives they’ve been trying to survive.
QUICK & SPOILER-FREE REVIEW: This was my first book to read by this author, and I was so happy to receive it from Harper. I found it to be a touching story, and in many ways it reminded me of S.A. Cosby’s stories. Growing up in a small, southern town and seeing what life throws at characters really made me appreciate the blessings in my life. There are so many lessons being taught in this book, and I really loved the MMC, Eddy. This is a moving story about connection and healing, and how the right person at the right time can change everything. This is a solid read, and I hope you enjoy it as well!
AUTHOR: Willy Vlautin
PUB DATE: April 14, 2026 by @harperbooks
PAGES: 256 pages
RATING: 3.5 stars
GENRE: Friendship & Coming of Age Fiction
THANK YOU to @harperbooks for gifting me a hard copy of this book a few weeks ago. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
📖QUICK SYNOPSIS: Eddie Wilkens is a house painter in his forties whose life is quietly falling apart. His marriage is over, his help is unreliable, & he’s been carrying guilt for years. Next door, 8-year-old Russell is stuck in a tense & increasingly unsafe home with his older brother. When Russell starts spending time in Eddie’s backyard, the two slowly form an unlikely bond. Through small acts of care & friendship, they help each other find hope and a way forward from the lives they’ve been trying to survive.
✍️QUICK & SPOILER-FREE REVIEW: This was my first book to read by this author, and I was so happy to receive it from Harper. I found it to be a touching story, and in many ways it reminded me of S.A. Cosby’s stories. Growing up in a small, southern town and seeing what life throws at characters really made me appreciate the blessings in my life. There are so many lessons being taught in this book, and I really loved the MMC, Eddy. This is a moving story about connection @netgalley healing, and how the right person at the right time can change everything. This is a solid read, and I hope you enjoy it as well!
THANK YOU to @harperbooks for gifting me a hard copy of this book a few weeks ago. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
QUICK SYNOPSIS: Eddie Wilkens is a house painter in his forties whose life is quietly falling apart. His marriage is over, his help is unreliable, & he’s been carrying guilt for years. Next door, 8-year-old Russell is stuck in a tense & increasingly unsafe home with his older brother. When Russell starts spending time in Eddie’s backyard, the two slowly form an unlikely bond. Through small acts of care & friendship, they help each other find hope and a way forward from the lives they’ve been trying to survive.
QUICK & SPOILER-FREE REVIEW: This was my first book to read by this author, and I was so happy to receive it from Harper. I found it to be a touching story, and in many ways it reminded me of S.A. Cosby’s stories. Growing up in a small, southern town and seeing what life throws at characters really made me appreciate the blessings in my life. There are so many lessons being taught in this book, and I really loved the MMC, Eddy. This is a moving story about connection and healing, and how the right person at the right time can change everything. This is a solid read, and I hope you enjoy it as well!
May 20, 2026
Willy Vlautin says he could live forever writing about these two.
I could live forever reading it.
God this is good.
Hopeful and bittersweet.
Vlautin continues to prove why he's one of the best writers working today.
I could live forever reading it.
God this is good.
Hopeful and bittersweet.
Vlautin continues to prove why he's one of the best writers working today.
April 25, 2026
This is a beautiful, heartbreaking story about broken individuals living in difficult circumstances. The author writes with enormous understanding and compassion for his damaged characters. He captures their loneliness, desperation and resilience with simplicity and moments of humor and light. Eddie is the heart of this novel.Despite his pain and loss, he attempts to save everyone from his addicted ex-wife to his alcoholic painting partner to Russell, the lost boy next door. This book will worm its way into your heart. You’ll be glad you read it.
June 7, 2026
My second Willy Vlautin and I could almost copy paste my review of my first (the Horse):
Outsized emotions, big drama, larger than life characters with either an enormous heart or, more often, struggling to keep their lives on track and unable to keep a promise.
There is domestic violence, addiction of all kinds, crime, unwanted pregnancies, and a lot of goodness too.
The hero of "The Left and the Lucky" is Eddy, the most sympathetic and patient man you can imagine. He takes care of little Russell, the boy next door, whose mum is unable to look after him. Eddy's a fantastic boss too....so good in fact that his people take advantage of him. Gradually the book gives you more insight into Eddy's altruism.
I enjoyed it very much - you are into the story from the first page. It's almost a caricature of working class life and perhaps the way Vlautin portrays the raw emotions are more romantic than truth, but as a story it works.
The audiobook is excellent too, read by the author.
Outsized emotions, big drama, larger than life characters with either an enormous heart or, more often, struggling to keep their lives on track and unable to keep a promise.
There is domestic violence, addiction of all kinds, crime, unwanted pregnancies, and a lot of goodness too.
The hero of "The Left and the Lucky" is Eddy, the most sympathetic and patient man you can imagine. He takes care of little Russell, the boy next door, whose mum is unable to look after him. Eddy's a fantastic boss too....so good in fact that his people take advantage of him. Gradually the book gives you more insight into Eddy's altruism.
I enjoyed it very much - you are into the story from the first page. It's almost a caricature of working class life and perhaps the way Vlautin portrays the raw emotions are more romantic than truth, but as a story it works.
The audiobook is excellent too, read by the author.
April 14, 2026
Another really enjoyable read from Willy Vlautin.
The story of Russell and Eddie is told in a straight forward but heart warming style, often bringing a tear to the eye. Eddie really is a saint, for his own reasons, and Russell is the grateful recipient of his kindness - no one should have to suffer the torment from his brother that he does.
The book has a well developed storyline and in the writing, nothing is surplus to requirements.
I really loved this book, as I have all of the Willy Vlautin books that I have read
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The story of Russell and Eddie is told in a straight forward but heart warming style, often bringing a tear to the eye. Eddie really is a saint, for his own reasons, and Russell is the grateful recipient of his kindness - no one should have to suffer the torment from his brother that he does.
The book has a well developed storyline and in the writing, nothing is surplus to requirements.
I really loved this book, as I have all of the Willy Vlautin books that I have read
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2026
My first and only Vlautin novel.
Despite a strong main character, Eddie, and a realistic and occasionally tense storyline, I grew tired of Cordarrel's and Houston's rambling monologues and felt disappointed with the ending. Russell is a bit young (8) to be believable at times. Seems like momentum would build up only to be squandered. Eddie's a great guy but the story lacks nuance and resolution. An entertaining read but not a standout.
Despite a strong main character, Eddie, and a realistic and occasionally tense storyline, I grew tired of Cordarrel's and Houston's rambling monologues and felt disappointed with the ending. Russell is a bit young (8) to be believable at times. Seems like momentum would build up only to be squandered. Eddie's a great guy but the story lacks nuance and resolution. An entertaining read but not a standout.
April 18, 2026
I officially will read anything this man writes.
August 14, 2026
This is the best in Goodreads: to get to know a great author you did not even know that existed, just by browsing your timeline. The Left and the Lucky, my first Willy Vlautin novel but surely not the last, tells a heart-aching story of 8-years-old Russell who has an abusive older brother and mother who is incapable of including him into her sphere of care. Luckily, Russell connects with Eddie who lives next door. Eddie is a big-hearted house painter and dog owner who finds the time and means to take care of Russell while navigating his own challenges.
Vlautin himself is a superb painter of settings, feelings and the ancient human need to belong and to be loved. But he does not shy away from showing also human incompetence and potential for cruelty either. He also makes the reader to connect with his characters, who come to live through his delicate prose. The Left and the Lucky is a true emotional rollercoaster where you as a reader want to maintain the optimism but at the same time are afraid of what might come next. Nevertheless, the main message is clear: we humans need each other for connection, for meaning and for love.
Vlautin himself is a superb painter of settings, feelings and the ancient human need to belong and to be loved. But he does not shy away from showing also human incompetence and potential for cruelty either. He also makes the reader to connect with his characters, who come to live through his delicate prose. The Left and the Lucky is a true emotional rollercoaster where you as a reader want to maintain the optimism but at the same time are afraid of what might come next. Nevertheless, the main message is clear: we humans need each other for connection, for meaning and for love.
June 14, 2026
4,5
Vlautin har mutat in en tydlig genre i sina böcker: ett baksidans USA där arbetande människor kämpar för ett drägligt liv men inte alltid har omständigheterna med sig, eller förmågan att hantera sina motgångar. Det som gör att det inte bara blir misär av det hela är att det är skrivet med ett stort hjärta, utan att för den delen bli sentimentalt eller välta över i önsketänkande.
Denna hans åttonde roman är inget undantag, och där jag tyckte att han i sin förra bok ”Hästen” inte nådda hela vägen fram är han här tillbaka i storform. Boken kretsar kring ett syskonpar, den äldre Curtis som har hamnat på glid och hans yngre halvbror Russell som är den som mest får känna effekterna av detta. När deras ensamstående mamma inte klarar av att hantera situationen hemma söker sig Russell istället till grannen Eddie som driver en målarfirma som kräver arbete sex dagar i veckan med anställda som antingen är alkoholister eller översittare.
När Vlautin skildrar sina karaktärer gör han det i princip helt utan att beskriva deras inre känsloliv. Det är istället vad de gör och säger som berättas, och som läsare får man själv fylla i alla de luckor som denna berättarteknik skapar vilket i sin tur gör att man ömmar desto mer för dem. Tydligast blir detta med Curtis, en person som man lätt skulle kunna avsky men som får ett par scener där det blir smärtsamt tydligt att han också bara är ett vilset barn.
Det finns också ett oerhört driv i berättelsen, inte nödvändigtvis för vad som händer och hur saker utvecklas utan i hur det berättas. Det är en sån där bok som man utan problem skulle kunna läsa i en sittning om man hade ett par timmar över, och har man inte det tar man varje chans att plocka upp den och läsa några sidor till. Det är helt klart en av Vlautins starkaste romaner, kanske till och med den bästa men det får tiden utvisa.
Ska jag ha någon invändning är det hur Bakhåll i såväl sin presentation av boken som på dess kolofonsida väljer att berätta hur man valt bokens svenska titel (då den engelska varit omöjlig att direktöversätta) och samtidigt berättar hur den ska tolkas. Det känns som ett onödigt sätt att skriva läsaren på näsan.
Vlautin har mutat in en tydlig genre i sina böcker: ett baksidans USA där arbetande människor kämpar för ett drägligt liv men inte alltid har omständigheterna med sig, eller förmågan att hantera sina motgångar. Det som gör att det inte bara blir misär av det hela är att det är skrivet med ett stort hjärta, utan att för den delen bli sentimentalt eller välta över i önsketänkande.
Denna hans åttonde roman är inget undantag, och där jag tyckte att han i sin förra bok ”Hästen” inte nådda hela vägen fram är han här tillbaka i storform. Boken kretsar kring ett syskonpar, den äldre Curtis som har hamnat på glid och hans yngre halvbror Russell som är den som mest får känna effekterna av detta. När deras ensamstående mamma inte klarar av att hantera situationen hemma söker sig Russell istället till grannen Eddie som driver en målarfirma som kräver arbete sex dagar i veckan med anställda som antingen är alkoholister eller översittare.
När Vlautin skildrar sina karaktärer gör han det i princip helt utan att beskriva deras inre känsloliv. Det är istället vad de gör och säger som berättas, och som läsare får man själv fylla i alla de luckor som denna berättarteknik skapar vilket i sin tur gör att man ömmar desto mer för dem. Tydligast blir detta med Curtis, en person som man lätt skulle kunna avsky men som får ett par scener där det blir smärtsamt tydligt att han också bara är ett vilset barn.
Det finns också ett oerhört driv i berättelsen, inte nödvändigtvis för vad som händer och hur saker utvecklas utan i hur det berättas. Det är en sån där bok som man utan problem skulle kunna läsa i en sittning om man hade ett par timmar över, och har man inte det tar man varje chans att plocka upp den och läsa några sidor till. Det är helt klart en av Vlautins starkaste romaner, kanske till och med den bästa men det får tiden utvisa.
Ska jag ha någon invändning är det hur Bakhåll i såväl sin presentation av boken som på dess kolofonsida väljer att berätta hur man valt bokens svenska titel (då den engelska varit omöjlig att direktöversätta) och samtidigt berättar hur den ska tolkas. Det känns som ett onödigt sätt att skriva läsaren på näsan.
August 12, 2026
What a surprising gem this book was. First time reading this author and I was absolutely blown away. At only around 250 pages, this novel packs one hell of a strong punch that will bring about every emotion possible. Equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming with characters that you will get completely invested in. So much so that by the time you reach the end you’ll be sad as hell to see them go. Without a doubt a book of the year candidate and I can’t wait to explore more by this author. My strongest recommendation. Happy reading!
May 16, 2026
Willy's stories are heart breaking but somehow uplifting at the same time. This one was particularly effective as there were so many characters i felt invested in.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 594 reviews