A Spool of Blue Thread

Knowing this is Anne Tyler's last book, I have had difficulty making my way through this wonderful book for a couple of years. I adore Anne Tyler, and feel she speaks to my heart in her characters. 

I am from Baltimore, and love the gritty, quirky city. Living in South Florida now, I miss the "hon" and the "downy ocean" that everyone always quotes, but I also miss the grittier side of Baltimore, and how the people live. 

An artsy city, believe it or not, we are quirky folk.  We will fight to the end to defend our own, and argue where to find the best crab cake, and whether bread crumbs or crackers hold our blue crab together.   We sing the National Anthem with a strong "O" in the middle. (Listen for it...we pick each other out all across this country doing that!)  We loved The Wire, Laura Lippman, John Waters, Boog Powell, David Simon and Anne Tyler. Edgar, Alan and Poe were the mascots for the Ravens, real birds! Sadly only Poe remains.  We dig our quirky folk.  That's why I adore Anne Tyler. 

I met her 10 or so years ago pumping gas on Northern Parkway at the citgo. It was cold and we were bundled up, and only a true fan would spot her. I left her alone, knowing she cherishes her anonymity. Roland Park has given her the Accidental Tourist and others, which she gave the world. 

A Spool of Blue Thread symbolizes yet another book of characters. Baltimore characters in a dysfunctional but loving family.  A family growing old together and all the life changes that occur. I cried at the end because we won't have another from Ms Tyler. 

A Spool of Blue Thread reminds us that life is short, love hard and without pause. Just dive in, like you have no tomorrow. 

Love you Anne.  Love you Baltimore. 

#AnneTyler #Baltimore #ASpoolOfBlueThread

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