“The Last Romantics” Review

The Last Romantics by Tara Conklin is not really a romance, but is the family story of four siblings – Renee, Joe, Carolyn and Fiona Skinner. The novel’s narrator is Fiona, as she looks back on her life at the age of 102. The author does a beautiful job describing the siblings’ relationships during different times in their lives – always loving each other, but often needing forgiveness and understanding.

This story covers a lifetime in the Skinner family and is beautifully written. There is not much action or adventure, but relationships and the thoughts of each individual receive great attention. The four children suffer trauma in their early lives which comes back to influence things they do and say many years later. I truly liked all of the siblings, especially Fiona. My heart hurt for each of them when life dealt them difficult times. But even in those difficult times, love is a constant among them. If you enjoy reading about families and the foundations/inner workings that hold them together, I think you will love The Last Romantics!

Special Event

Spring Into Reading
Reading Challenge

Join us for our “Spring into Reading” Reading Challenge throughout the month of April! This challenge is open to ALL AGES! Put some spring in your step and dive into reading! Track your reading to earn cheerful badges throughout the month and enter to win prizes. Completion of this challenge requires 300 minutes read (50 books for pre-readers) and will reward you with 5 extra tickets for the prize drawing. Ready, set, and watch yourself blossom! Don’t forget to stop by the front desk to pick up your registration prize!

Experience

StoryWalk

Visit the StoryWalk at Lakeview Park to experience a brand new story every six weeks. Library staff select a children’s book to go with the seasons or upcoming events. The next book is “’10 Minutes to Bed: Little Dinosaur” by Rhiannon Fielding and Chris Chatterton.

Book cover of "10 Minutes To Bed: Little Dinosaur".

Watseka Public Library