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The Left and the Lucky
Listening Length: 6 hours and 40 minutes
The acclaimed Willy Vlautin returns with a heartbreaking and tender novel about two young brothers, the vicissitudes of fate, and unexpected connection—a beautiful and bittersweet portrait that illuminates the power of friendship and how it can save lives in multiple ways.
Eddie Wilkens is a workaholic house painter in his early forties. His wife has left him to her regret, and his main employee, Houston, is a loafer and scoundrel who barely shows up for work. Unassuming and self-reliant, Eddie is a thoughtful man who rarely gets angry, despite life's frequent provocations, but he is ruled by a guilt that he has carried for nearly twenty years.
Next door, a woman and her two sons move in with her frail and aging mother. The youngest boy, Russell, eight years old, is quiet and small for his age and lives in constant terror of his increasingly lost and troubled fifteen-year-old brother, Curtis. As their mother struggles to keep the family together and the grandmother’s health begins to falter they find themselves unable to protect Russell and themselves from Curtis’s cruelty, which threatens to explode in frenetic violence.
Though neither knows it, Russell and Eddie will become each other’s saving grace.
While Russell’s home life disintegrates he begins waiting in Eddie’s backyard for him to get off work. Eddie offers the boy small acts of he feeds him, gives him jobs to do, listens to his dreams of escape, and offers Russell a glimpse into a world of hope and humor. A world of misfit painters, a derelict muscle car, an old dog, and the comradery and companionship of Eddie and his crew. In return, Russell gives Eddie a reason to carry on and helps him lay to rest the guilt that has plagued him for half of his life.
Together, this makeshift father and son begin to build a better life, daring to trade the bleakness and cynicism around them for hope and friendship.
From a writer revered for his thoughtful and compassionate portrayal of realistic American life, The Left and the Lucky is a heartbreakingly honest examination of how circumstance shapes our lives, and how the luck of finding someone who needs us can transcend bitter loneliness and prevent us from giving up on dreaming of a better life.
The acclaimed Willy Vlautin returns with a heartbreaking and tender novel about two young brothers, the vicissitudes of fate, and unexpected connection—a beautiful and bittersweet portrait that illuminates the power of friendship and how it can save lives in multiple ways.
Eddie Wilkens is a workaholic house painter in his early forties. His wife has left him to her regret, and his main employee, Houston, is a loafer and scoundrel who barely shows up for work. Unassuming and self-reliant, Eddie is a thoughtful man who rarely gets angry, despite life's frequent provocations, but he is ruled by a guilt that he has carried for nearly twenty years.
Next door, a woman and her two sons move in with her frail and aging mother. The youngest boy, Russell, eight years old, is quiet and small for his age and lives in constant terror of his increasingly lost and troubled fifteen-year-old brother, Curtis. As their mother struggles to keep the family together and the grandmother’s health begins to falter they find themselves unable to protect Russell and themselves from Curtis’s cruelty, which threatens to explode in frenetic violence.
Though neither knows it, Russell and Eddie will become each other’s saving grace.
While Russell’s home life disintegrates he begins waiting in Eddie’s backyard for him to get off work. Eddie offers the boy small acts of he feeds him, gives him jobs to do, listens to his dreams of escape, and offers Russell a glimpse into a world of hope and humor. A world of misfit painters, a derelict muscle car, an old dog, and the comradery and companionship of Eddie and his crew. In return, Russell gives Eddie a reason to carry on and helps him lay to rest the guilt that has plagued him for half of his life.
Together, this makeshift father and son begin to build a better life, daring to trade the bleakness and cynicism around them for hope and friendship.
From a writer revered for his thoughtful and compassionate portrayal of realistic American life, The Left and the Lucky is a heartbreakingly honest examination of how circumstance shapes our lives, and how the luck of finding someone who needs us can transcend bitter loneliness and prevent us from giving up on dreaming of a better life.
7 pages, Audio CD
First published April 14, 2026
About the author
Willy Vlautin
22 books1,331 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 669 reviews
April 19, 2026
I absolutely adored The Horse on audio, narrated by Willy Vlautin himself. He was the perfect voice for that story. So when I saw his new release, The Left and the Lucky, also narrated by Vlautin, I immediately picked up the audiobook. Once again, his narration elevates the material. His pauses, pacing, and quiet inflections land in exactly the right places. Vlautin is also a musician with The Delines, the Portland, Oregon group that describes its sound as “retro country soul.” His voice carries that same soulful quality, and so does his storytelling.
The novel centers on Eddie Wilkens, a forty-something house painter who lives next door to a struggling single mother raising two boys by different fathers. Her oldest son, Curtis, is angry, cruel, and already showing the hardness life can create. Her youngest, Russell, is a scrawny eight-year-old boy with a tender heart. He is earnest, kind, and one of the sweetest characters I have encountered in fiction. Eddie, meanwhile, may be one of the most patient, tolerant, and decent men ever written.
Russell’s older brother bullies him relentlessly while their mother is often away working, leaving the boys largely on their own. Russell dreams of building an airplane or a boat that can carry him somewhere better, perhaps all the way to Hawaii.
Eddie paints houses six days a week. He is a workaholic who cannot say no to damaged people and often goes out of his way to help them. Each night, Russell comes by to talk. Eddie quickly recognizes what the child truly needs: food, kindness, safety, and attention. The relationship that grows between them is tender, believable, and quietly magical in the way only Vlautin can write.
This is a beautiful story about human connection in vulnerable circumstances. Vlautin writes with enormous compassion and a clear-eyed understanding of people living on the margins. He captures loneliness, hardship, and resilience without sentimentality. The novel has rightly been praised for its humane storytelling and realistic portrayal of American life.
I give this audiobook 5 shiny stars. Willy Vlautin could narrate a grocery list and I would listen, but thankfully he keeps writing wonderful novels instead.
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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 NetGalley
Vlautin's tale of a found family is mesmerizing and touching. Featuring superb writing and characters that breathe, this one jumps easily to my Best of the Year List. Another beautiful book by the planet's most underrated writer.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper for sharing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper for sharing.
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.
October 5, 2026
The Left and the Lucky may well be the best of the eight novels that Wally Vlautin has written (and I’ve read most of them). There’s something here that I don’t find often enough – a deep compassion for those who got the raw side of the deal in this thing we call life. It’s heartfelt in all the right ways, sort of like the novels of Kent Haruf or maybe Jess Walter. Yet Vlautin has carved out his own style.
Much of the story can break even the toughest heart. Russell, only eight-years-old, is the second child of a stripper, who also has an older son, Curtis, who bullies and abuses his half-brother. As Curtis’ cruelty intensifies and becomes increasingly dangerous, Rusell finds shelter at a neighbor – a divorced house painter named Eddie. Eddie is a quintessential good guy who carries his own private sorrow yet genuinely cares for those around him. A chapter that focuses on Eddie and his ex-wife, who left him after years of marriage for someone else, is illuminating about his character. His ex wants Eddie to chastise her for leaving him, but Eddie refuses with a love that is blinding in its goodness. Of course, after consulting with Russell’s mother, he offers him space and safety in his own house. The bond between them is among one of the most authentic and heartwarming I’ve ever read.
Willy Vlautin excels at dialogue – particularly during the many scenes with Eddie and the motley crew of painters he hires to work with him. These include Houston, a struggling alcoholic who can’t be counted on to show up on time, Cordarrel, an older braggart, and later, Donny, a down-on-his-luck young man who can’t catch a break. Every character, even Curtis, is painted in broad strokes, to show the human yearning underneath the exterior.
Despite the darkness of the plot, the theme emphasizes genuine hope when a true connection exists. Eddie’s quiet acts of kindness mold Russell and allow him to respond in kind, forming a powerful father-and-son bond. The painters are rescued from an existential aloneness by the time they share together. It’s all bleak, heart-rendering, but written with enough humor and insight – and ultimately, salvation – to make it a joy to read.
Much of the story can break even the toughest heart. Russell, only eight-years-old, is the second child of a stripper, who also has an older son, Curtis, who bullies and abuses his half-brother. As Curtis’ cruelty intensifies and becomes increasingly dangerous, Rusell finds shelter at a neighbor – a divorced house painter named Eddie. Eddie is a quintessential good guy who carries his own private sorrow yet genuinely cares for those around him. A chapter that focuses on Eddie and his ex-wife, who left him after years of marriage for someone else, is illuminating about his character. His ex wants Eddie to chastise her for leaving him, but Eddie refuses with a love that is blinding in its goodness. Of course, after consulting with Russell’s mother, he offers him space and safety in his own house. The bond between them is among one of the most authentic and heartwarming I’ve ever read.
Willy Vlautin excels at dialogue – particularly during the many scenes with Eddie and the motley crew of painters he hires to work with him. These include Houston, a struggling alcoholic who can’t be counted on to show up on time, Cordarrel, an older braggart, and later, Donny, a down-on-his-luck young man who can’t catch a break. Every character, even Curtis, is painted in broad strokes, to show the human yearning underneath the exterior.
Despite the darkness of the plot, the theme emphasizes genuine hope when a true connection exists. Eddie’s quiet acts of kindness mold Russell and allow him to respond in kind, forming a powerful father-and-son bond. The painters are rescued from an existential aloneness by the time they share together. It’s all bleak, heart-rendering, but written with enough humor and insight – and ultimately, salvation – to make it a joy to read.
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.
October 5, 2026
3.5
I liked this book. I especially like Eddie and Russell as characters, but there were other things that didn't sit with me quite as well. Russell does a lot of things kids his age just wouldn't do. And there are some rather abrupt jumps in time. Also the story is very dialogue-reliant, which is probably just Vlatutin's style. I will definitely read another book by this author, but this book was not as heartwarming as I was lead to believe. Still, it's enjoyable.
I liked this book. I especially like Eddie and Russell as characters, but there were other things that didn't sit with me quite as well. Russell does a lot of things kids his age just wouldn't do. And there are some rather abrupt jumps in time. Also the story is very dialogue-reliant, which is probably just Vlatutin's style. I will definitely read another book by this author, but this book was not as heartwarming as I was lead to believe. Still, it's enjoyable.
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.
October 18, 2026
Wow, this is the most uplifting book of Vlautin’s that I’ve ever read, and I’m not mad about it.
His writing is simple, descriptive, not pretentious in any way. Vlautin is consistently good at bringing flawed, authentic characters to life. He portrays their struggles without engendering pity and allowing the reader to feel their own emotions, which can really depend on how you relate to each situation or person.
The characters of Eddie and Russel will stay with me. I always appreciate stories with characters who share a strong bond, and who have each other’s backs no matter what. That’s how I felt about these two.
His writing is simple, descriptive, not pretentious in any way. Vlautin is consistently good at bringing flawed, authentic characters to life. He portrays their struggles without engendering pity and allowing the reader to feel their own emotions, which can really depend on how you relate to each situation or person.
The characters of Eddie and Russel will stay with me. I always appreciate stories with characters who share a strong bond, and who have each other’s backs no matter what. That’s how I felt about these two.
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 18, 2026
I have read more than a couple of Willy Vlautin's books, so I had an idea of what I was getting into before I cracked this one open. I knew that I'd get a peek into the lives of people that are struggling. And not just struggling...but STRUGGLING. Vlautin sometimes reminds me of Larry Brown, writing about the people that most of us see in and around our small towns but wouldn't ever dare to engage. That said: my heart broke for Russell with every page. I hope that there is an Eddie and an Early out there for every Russell, but I know that isn't the case.
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