The Review

“Last House” by Jessica Shattuck is a sprawling family saga that ambitiously spans nearly eight decades, encapsulating the grand sweep of historical events alongside the intimate complexities of family dynamics. Shattuck masterfully weaves together the personal and the political, offering a panoramic view of American life from the postwar era to the present day.

Set against the backdrop of a changing nation, the Taylor family serves as both a microcosm of American society and a vessel for exploring the intricacies of human relationships. From the patriarch Nick’s journey as a WWII veteran turned corporate lawyer to his wife Bet’s evolution from wartime codebreaker to suburban housewife, each member of the family grapples with their own dreams, desires, and demons amidst the tumult of their times.

Shattuck deftly captures the generational shifts and societal upheavals that shape the Taylor family’s trajectory, from the idealism of the 1960s to the disillusionment of the 1970s and beyond. Through the lens of characters like Katherine, who navigates the turbulent waters of activism and rebellion, and Bet, who confronts the contradictions of her privileged existence, the novel delves into themes of identity, morality, and the legacy of past choices.

The novel’s strengths lie in its rich character development and vivid historical backdrop. Shattuck’s characters are compelling and multi-dimensional, each grappling with their own desires, fears, and moral dilemmas. From Nick’s journey from humble origins to corporate lawyer, to Katherine’s struggle to reconcile her beliefs with her privileged upbringing, each character’s story feels authentic and deeply resonant.

Shattuck’s prose is elegant and evocative, drawing readers into the world of Last House and the Taylor family with its lush descriptions and keen observations. Whether she’s capturing the idyllic tranquility of Vermont’s mountains or the tumultuous streets of 1960s America, Shattuck’s writing is immersive and compelling.

While the novel is ambitious in scope and offers a compelling exploration of history and family, some readers may find it overwhelming at times. The sheer breadth of historical events covered may detract from the depth of character development, leaving certain aspects feeling underexplored; I often found myself struggling at times with the pacing to continue through the novel.

Overall, “Last House” is a thought-provoking and meticulously researched novel that offers a poignant reflection on the passage of time, the complexities of human relationships, and the enduring legacy of history. While it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more character-driven narrative, its ambitious scope and compelling themes make it a worthy addition to the genre of multigenerational family sagas. I would give this one a 3.5 Stars, rounding up to 4.

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Short Review (AKA TLDR)

“Last House” by Jessica Shattuck is an ambitious family saga spanning nearly eight decades, skillfully intertwining the personal journeys of the Taylor family with the backdrop of American history. From the postwar era to the present day, Shattuck navigates through the complexities of human relationships amidst the sweeping changes of society. Through vivid characterizations and immersive prose, she delves into themes of identity, morality, and the legacy of past choices. While the novel’s rich historical backdrop and multi-dimensional characters captivate readers, some may find the sheer breadth of events covered overwhelming, occasionally detracting from deeper character exploration. Overall, “Last House” offers a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the enduring impact of history, making it a compelling read for fans of multigenerational family sagas.