Around the World in 80 Books discussion

Start discussion here for An Unfinished Life by Mark Spragg.

I'm about a third of the way through this and enjoying it. So far a quick read. Jean Gilkyson is one down and out woman. From the moment Einar opens his mouth I pictured Jeff Bridges playing his role. And I could see a younger Morgan Freeman as Mitch. I don't picture actors as characters very often, but when I do I never forget them.

Finished. Feeling embarrassed. This was a film - only starring Robert Redford. And (ta dum!) Morgan Freeman.

Recommend this to anyone who enjoys books with tough 'ol western men living in solitude. At least it starts that way. Hope some other group members are or will read this book.

I read this book fast as well. I have mixed feelings about the mother--sometimes she's savvy and fun, but other times shows bad judgment and has poor priorities. But I love the other main characters. I see Griff in Wyoming the way I see myself growing up in Colorado. She likes helping out the old guys and I would work with my dad who often worked with old guys with plenty of the wisdom and humor Einar and Mitch have together.

However, the story does have several cliches and makes me think of many other stories taking place on ranches in the West--but for all I know those can be acceptable genre tropes.

Overall, very fun.

I struggled a bit with the mother but mostly in that she had a child who in many cases was more mature than she was. I guess Griff grew up having to take care of herself, though I was left wondering how she'd gotten those skills. Einar recognized this in Griff. And he was certainly right to be leery about his ex-daughter-in-law.