Butlers writing is so easy and lovely to read. This is my favourite of his so far, I just love his depiction of small town America. All his characters are so instantly loveable and his books all seem to showcase the joy of the everyday. The relationship between Lyle and his grandson was just so sweet. This was a slow, gentle book and oh man, the ending.

I thought he handled the viciousness of cult-like religions with grace, and the POV character was especially interesting in those moments. 

Lost a star for the second half of the book turning on its head with its discussion of religion. I thought  the book would have been hugely impactful if Lyle had stayed true to his honest and gentle disbelief. The ending would have really packed a punch. 

Overall, enjoyable writing and loveable characters. Got a little preach towards the end, but worth a read.