41 pages 1 hour read

Mary Lawson

The Other Side of the Bridge

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2006

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Other Side of the Bridge by Mary Lawson tells the stories of Arthur and Ian, two men connected by the Dunn family and their love for Laura. Arthur's story begins in the late 1930s farm life, highlighting his complex relationship with his reckless brother Jake. Ian's story unfolds in the 1950s as he works on Arthur's farm to be near Laura. The narrative shifts between past and present, revealing how the past’s unresolved tensions impact the present, leading to unexpected and dramatic resolutions.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Other Side of the Bridge by Mary Lawson captures readers with its beautiful prose and vivid portrayal of Canadian rural life. The novel is praised for its emotional depth and well-developed characters, though some readers find its pacing slow. Overall, it shines in its exploration of family dynamics and personal growth against a compelling historical backdrop.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Other Side of the Bridge?

Readers who appreciate profound, character-driven narratives set in rural landscapes will find Mary Lawson's The Other Side of the Bridge captivating. Fans of authors like Alice Munro or Kent Haruf, known for their evocative portrayal of small-town life and complex, nuanced characters, may enjoy this novel's exploration of familial bonds and personal struggles.

Recommended

Reading Age

14-18years

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Grief

Values/Ideas: Fate

Relationships: Family

Topics

History: World

Relationships

Genre

Historical Fiction