Search - The Stone Diaries

This book took me awhile to read as I was never really drawn in or enticed to keep reading it. Nonetheless I read on, enjoying the fine writing, and still certain that a climactic end was in store. Well it never really came, yet something more rewarding occurred that caught me by suprise. Upon finishing the book, I sat, closed my eyes and carefully considered the thoughts this book provoked in me. Thoughts about life, its meaning, its purpose, how to approach it, thoughts of family, of friendships, of births and deaths, of work, of retirement, of illness, and of my own death. I was quite saddened by the book. The family and friends of Daisy knew so little about her really. She became, to them (and to me), this old lady who repeated herself, and led a self-denied life of wife and mother.

The reminder I take away from Daisy's life is to be careful not to let life happen to you like an accident. It's important to try to exert some influence where you can or the everyday omission of influence can form a life of regrets that are only recognizable in death.

"The Stone Diaries" is an immensely introspective examination of the cycles of life. Even though the lives of the characters are without much spark or excitement, they are portrayed in a way that compels you to take notice and to care. Whether it's the superb writing, the sublime story or the subdued pace, the novel works well and was a thoroughly enjoyable read.

This book fell flat for me in so many ways. You've got to be a fan of Shields' writing in order to appreciate this. Although it won the Pulitzer Prize, I truly question why. I found the main character bland, her life bland, the writing bland. I was glad when it was over. I finished only because I want to read all of the Pulitzer Prize winners. This was by far the worst of them I'd read.

Beautifully written, Pullitzer Prize winner... Incredible metaphors and symbolism...one of my favorites.

Very good read. This is what modern literature looks like.

The story of Daisy told in different ways for each stage of her life. Daisy's story is not particularly happy with a very tragic birth and difficult disappointments in mid-life. She lives a very full life without experiencing the fullness of relationships. Her marriage seems pretty loveless and her kids don't seem to get her, it's pretty sad. But I think it imparts a valuable lesson of the importance of making space for intimacy & trust in your life while you are able.

I recommend this book for readers who enjoy character-driven novels. The point of view is particularly interesting, and the poignant end of the narrator's life is well told.