This is classic Anne Tyler—with a protagonist who is divorced and somewhat adrift and finds himself involved with a not especially pretty or glamorous, but very self-possessed woman. It brought to mind "The Accidental Tourist" and "Noah’s Compass," but still felt completely original.

Tyler's characterizations and dialog are always pitch-perfect. This, more than the stories themselves, is what makes her books so enjoyable. Somehow it feels like you've met all of these people in real life.

I loved the Rent-a-Back company and the family of employees and clients that forms around it—and especially the way in which it contrasts with Barnaby’s real family. The older people who use the company’s services are delightful--funny and authentic.

This isn't my favorite of her books and it's probably more like 3 ½ stars—but I appreciate Anne Tyler very much and am always happy to round up for her.