If you’re a fan of Elizabeth Strout, you’re in for a treat with her latest release, Tell Me Everything, which hit shelves in 2024, courtesy of Random House. This is Strout’s 10th novel, and it’s already making waves—earning a spot on the New York Times bestseller list and becoming an Oprah Book Club pick. Impressive, right?
- What’s Included in This Guide: Online & Printable Versions
- Tell Me Everything
- Tell Me Everything Book Reviews
- Tell Me Everything Summary
- Tell Me Everything Characters
- Book Club Questions for Tell Me Everything
- Q&A about Tell Me Everything with Elizabeth Strout
- Elizabeth Strout Author Biography
- Tell Me Everything Book Club Ideas
- Quotes From Tell Me Everything
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Books Like Tell Me Everything
- Tell Me Everything Review
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What’s Included in This Guide: Online & Printable Versions
Everything you need for a successful book club meeting for Tell Me Everything is included below. You’ll find discussion questions, food and drink ideas, and more!
We also have an optional printable book club kit to take your meeting to the next level. This blog post is customized to Tell Me Everything and includes the following pages:
- Character List
- Discussion Questions
- Quotes from the Book
- Themed Book Ideas
- Printable Bookmarks
- Extra Info: Author facts
- Themed Food & Drink Ideas
- Book Covers from Around the World
- Custom Journal Page for Meeting Details
- Themed Notes Page
- List of Additional Book Club Resources
About the Author | Q&A with Elizabeth Strout | Review
Characters | Summary | Book Club Ideas
Book Club Questions | Additional Recommendations | Book Club Kit
Tell Me Everything
For a little background, Strout won the Pulitzer Prize in 2009 for Olive Kitteridge (remember how everyone was talking about that one back in 2008?), and now she’s back, continuing her beloved Amgash series. Tell Me Everything is the fifth book in this series, which dives even deeper into the lives of the residents of fictional Crosby, Maine.
Expect Strout’s signature exploration of complex human emotions, as she masterfully weaves in themes like how our perspectives shape the stories we tell, how the past affects the present, and the fragile, ever-changing nature of human connection.
For those planning to grab the Kindle edition (like I did), just a heads-up: Tell Me Everything does deal with some heavy topics.
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
Release date: September 10, 2024
Genre: Friendship Fiction (Books)
Hardcover: 352 pages
Publisher: Random House
Tell Me Everything Book Reviews
“Another deeply human and vibrant portrait of relationships, Tell Me Everything will bring the cozy and comforting story that fans have come to expect.”—She Reads
“A rich tapestry, intricately wrought yet effortlessly realized, both suspenseful and meditative . . . Suffering and the enduring of it, the human impulse to solve and resolve confronting the fundamental unknowability of others and life’s essential mystery, finding hope, love, and connection in improbable places: Strout’s perpetual preoccupations are here explored with clear sighted rigor, emotional generosity, and bighearted joy.”—The Boston Globe
“Strout covers the ghosts of marriages and the indignity of old age with her usual thoughtfulness.”—Vulture
Tell Me Everything Summary
In Tell Me Everything, Elizabeth Strout brings us back to the small town of Crosby, Maine, where Bob Burgess and his wife, Margaret, seem to have a calm, settled life. Bob, a semi-retired lawyer, and Margaret, a Unitarian minister, are respected members of their community. But as always with Strout, there’s much more going on beneath the surface.
So, let’s talk about Bob. He’s struck up a close friendship with Lucy Barton, who (if you’re a fan of Strout, you’ll know her well from My Name Is Lucy Barton) recently moved to Crosby with her husband, William, to escape the chaos of New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bob and Lucy go on weekly walks, and while their spouses—Margaret and William—aren’t bothered by this, there’s something deeper developing between them. And who catches on? Olive Kitteridge herself. Olive invites Lucy over, recognizing that Lucy has a story that needs telling, and from there, the two women form a connection, sharing stories about the “unrecorded lives” of those around them. It’s classic Strout—ordinary people, extraordinary insights.
Meanwhile, there’s a darker thread running through the town. A local woman, Gloria Beach, disappeared last fall, and her body is later found in a quarry. This brings up some painful memories for Bob and his sister Susan, who remember Gloria as the school cafeteria worker cruelly nicknamed “Bitch Ball.” Gloria’s daughter, Diana, had always been a troubled soul, sharing disturbing stories on the playground about abducted women. When Gloria’s body is found, suspicion falls on her son, Matt, an isolated but talented artist. Diana asks Bob to defend Matt, and Bob, believing in his innocence, takes on the case.
In the midst of all this, Bob’s personal life is unraveling. His brother, Jim, first invites him to visit in New York, then rescinds the offer without explanation. Bob’s ex-wife, Pam, turns up and reveals she’s struggling with alcohol use disorder, and that her current husband has been unfaithful. Oh, and she drops the bombshell that Jim’s wife, Helen, is dying.
All of this leaves Bob feeling more disconnected from Margaret, who seems distant and self-absorbed. The only person who really “gets” him is Lucy, and his feelings for her start to tip from friendship into something more. They continue their walks, and Bob finds himself falling for her, but it’s complicated—he’s not sure if it’s love or just an escape from his own life.
Back to the mystery: as Bob gets closer to Matt, he realizes there’s more to the story of Gloria’s death. Matt, it turns out, knows Diana was responsible for the murder, a crime tied to long-buried family trauma. Diana had been raped at the quarry years before, and when she told her mother, Gloria shamed her instead of offering support. This is where Strout’s signature exploration of painful pasts and the way they shape the present really shines.
At the same time, Bob has to confront the fractured relationship between Jim and his son, Larry. Larry ends up in a coma after a car accident, and Bob travels to New York to support his brother. The family’s old wounds—especially the mystery surrounding their father’s death—bubble up, forcing Bob and Jim to face truths they’ve avoided for years.
In the end, Bob and Lucy’s relationship hits a breaking point. They argue, don’t speak for weeks, and though Bob misses her, he also feels a sense of relief. Olive, always there to deliver the hard truths, tells Bob it wasn’t love, just a crush, and Bob slowly starts to rebuild his relationship with Margaret.
Tell Me Everything Characters
Elizabeth Strout’s Tell Me Everything is filled with characters who feel so real, it’s like they could step off the page and move in next door. Each one brings their own emotional depth, flaws, and complicated pasts that make the story unforgettable. Let’s dig into the characters and what makes them tick.
Bob Burgess
Ah, Bob. He’s the heart of the novel—the one you root for even when he seems so lost. If you’ve read The Burgess Boys, you know Bob already, but in Tell Me Everything, we see him in a new light. Bob’s a semi-retired lawyer living in Crosby, Maine, after years in New York City. He’s quiet, a little frumpy (those “awful jeans and rumpled shirt” are mentioned), but he’s got this big heart that makes you want to hug him.
Bob has been haunted for most of his life by the belief that he accidentally killed his father—until his brother Jim drops the bomb that he was responsible. Now, Bob is left trying to piece together the truth, realizing he may never fully understand what happened. This confusion between what’s real and what he’s been told becomes a major theme for him throughout the book. And let’s be real, Bob’s not the most self-aware guy. Lucy Barton (who we’ll talk about next!) calls him a “sin-eater” because he’s constantly absorbing everyone else’s problems, but he’s exhausted by it.
Bob is empathetic to a fault, constantly seeing the sweetness in people, and often, it hits him in the gut. Like when he sees William in a red tie on his wedding day and is just wrecked by the simple sight of it. It’s this vulnerability that makes Bob such a complex, loveable character. His arc is all about realizing that while connection is fleeting, it’s still worth pursuing. And yes, he has a crush on Lucy, but by the end, he understands that the crush wasn’t love—it was just another layer in the complicated fabric of human relationships.
Lucy Barton
Lucy Barton isn’t the star of this novel, but she’s a shining presence throughout it. If you’ve followed Elizabeth Strout’s books, you’ll know Lucy from My Name is Lucy Barton. In Tell Me Everything, she’s living in Crosby with her ex-husband, William, after escaping New York during the pandemic. At first, she’s described as “meek and mousy” with a “stunned look,” but don’t be fooled—Lucy has a way of seeing the world that draws people in.
She and Olive Kitteridge form this fascinating connection over their shared interest in the “unrecorded lives” of others. Lucy introduces Olive (and us, the readers) to the idea that the person telling the story has all the power, showing just how perspective shapes our lives and experiences.
Lucy’s also someone who connects deeply with her surroundings, whether it’s people or nature. There’s a beautiful moment where she’s delighted by the dandelions blooming in early spring—a simple, fleeting moment that shows her appreciation for life’s little joys. She’s a breath of fresh air for Bob, who feels like Lucy actually listens to him, something he doesn’t get from his other relationships.
Their bond, however, remains platonic. By the end of the novel, both Lucy and Bob acknowledge that what they felt for each other was just a crush, not the deep love Bob was searching for. But still, Lucy leaves her mark on Bob’s life—and on the reader.
Olive Kitteridge
Olive Kitteridge is back! If you’ve read Strout’s Olive Kitteridge or Olive, Again, you know Olive well. In Tell Me Everything, she’s 90 years old, still as sharp and grumpy as ever, but with a wisdom that only comes from age and experience. Olive is a former high school math teacher, and she approaches Lucy because she knows Lucy has stories to tell.
Their conversations are a huge part of the novel’s theme around storytelling and perspective. Olive starts to understand that the way we tell stories—and who tells them—makes all the difference. She’s still a bit of a bully, though, as Lucy points out, calling her “frightened.” But underneath Olive’s tough exterior is a woman who cares deeply, even if she struggles to show it.
The best part? Olive has the final scene of the novel, where she reflects on Lucy’s idea that “love is love.” It’s a perfect ending, with Olive letting herself be a little vulnerable, something that’s been developing across all the novels she’s appeared in.
Matt Beach
Matt Beach is one of the novel’s more mysterious characters. He’s Bob’s client, suspected of killing his mother, Gloria. But as the story unfolds, we learn it was actually his sister, Diana, who committed the crime. Matt is a reclusive, socially awkward artist who’s completely misunderstood by the town, which thinks he’s a pervert because he paints pregnant women.
What’s fascinating about Matt is his relationship with art. He’s completely self-taught, and his paintings are a reflection of his dedication. Bob, who starts off thinking he’s just helping Matt legally, ends up developing a genuine friendship with him. By the end, Matt even starts dating, thanks to the connection he and Bob form.
Diana Beach
Diana is Matt’s older sister, and she’s a complicated character with a tragic past. She’s been through hell—abused by her father, raped by a family friend, and abandoned by her husband, who left her for her best friend. It’s Diana’s trauma that ultimately leads to her killing her mother, Gloria. She’s an example of how the past impacts the present—she’s tried to move on, but the weight of her family’s history keeps pulling her back.
Gloria Beach
Gloria, Matt and Diana’s mother, is a central figure in the novel’s mystery. Known as “Bitch Ball” in town, Gloria is initially seen as a flat, almost villainous character. But Strout flips the script as we learn more about Gloria’s traumatic background through her journals. She was a deeply damaged woman, full of self-loathing, and her story adds depth to the novel’s theme of how the past shapes who we are.
Jim Burgess
Jim is Bob’s older brother, and the two of them have a lot of baggage. Jim is the one who accidentally killed their father but let Bob believe for years that it was his fault. He’s a classic bully, but through Lucy’s eyes, we see him for what he is—a man crippled by guilt and vulnerability. Jim goes through a transformation in the novel after his wife dies and his son is injured, finally starting to make amends for his past behavior.
Margaret Estaver
Last but not least, Margaret, Bob’s wife, is a Unitarian minister who’s often more focused on her work than her relationship with Bob. For most of the novel, Bob feels disconnected from her, but by the end, Margaret has gone through her own growth. She’s forced to confront both her personal and professional shortcomings, and this leads to a deeper connection between her and Bob.
| Bob Burgess | Protagonist, semi-retired lawyer | Quiet, empathetic, self-sacrificing, kind | Struggles with guilt over father’s death, seeks connection, exhausted by absorbing others’ problems, grows through self-awareness |
| Lucy Barton | Bob’s love interest (platonic), writer, ex-wife of William | Attentive, introspective, gentle | Focuses on storytelling, connection with others and nature, sees beauty in small moments, teaches others to listen and understand perspective |
| Olive Kitteridge | Bob’s friend, former math teacher | Gruff, intelligent, vulnerable beneath tough exterior | Learns the importance of perspective in storytelling, opens up emotionally despite her curmudgeon-like behavior |
| Matt Beach | Bob’s client, suspect in his mother’s murder | Reclusive, socially awkward, talented artist | Misunderstood by town, develops friendship with Bob, art is his outlet and connection to the world, story reveals family trauma |
| Diana Beach | Matt’s sister, murderer of their mother, high school guidance counselor | Traumatized, bitter, trapped by past | Victim of childhood abuse, kills her mother as a result of unresolved trauma, represents how the past haunts the present |
| Gloria Beach | Matt and Diana’s mother, murder victim | Harsh, self-loathing, product of trauma | Initially seen as a villain, later revealed to have her own traumatic past, showing how perspective alters judgment |
| Jim Burgess | Bob’s older brother, retired lawyer | Bullying, guilt-ridden, vulnerable | Carries guilt for causing their father’s death, struggles with his relationship with Bob, eventually seeks redemption |
| Margaret Estaver | Bob’s wife, Unitarian minister | Work-focused, introspective, sincere | Grows through personal and professional challenges, reconnects with Bob, emphasizes importance of humility and sincerity |
Book Club Questions for Tell Me Everything
- In the opening, Bob reflects on his father’s death, which shaped much of his life. How does this event continue to influence his relationship with his brother, Jim, even years later? Do you think Bob has truly forgiven Jim for letting him take the blame? Why or why not?
- When Bob sees Matt’s portrait of him, it’s a moment of unexpected vulnerability. Why do you think this moment hits Bob so deeply? What does it reveal about his self-perception and his relationships with others, especially Margaret and Lucy?
- Lucy’s connection with nature is highlighted during her excitement about the dandelions blooming in early spring. Why do you think this moment is so meaningful for her? What does it show about her character and how she finds beauty in the small, everyday moments of life?
- Olive is 90 years old and more reflective in this novel, especially in her interactions with Bob and Lucy. When she admits to them how much they mean to her, it’s a rare vulnerable moment for her. What does this reveal about her evolution throughout the book and across Strout’s previous works? Do you think Olive’s emotional growth is genuine or a reflection of her growing age?
- Matt is initially labeled a “pervert” because of his paintings of pregnant women, yet Bob comes to recognize his extraordinary talent. What does this reveal about the danger of quick judgments and how art can be misunderstood? How does Matt’s character challenge the assumptions others have about him?
- Lucy Barton’s empathy is a key theme in this book. How does Elizabeth Strout use Lucy to help us think about empathy on a deeper level? Did reading about her make you reflect on your own capacity to truly listen and empathize with others?
- The murder investigation adds so much tension and complexity to the story. How do you think it shifts the dynamics between Bob and Lucy? Do you think it brings them closer, or does it create more distance?
- Lucy and her ex-husband, William, have such a layered history. Their interactions are a mix of warmth, tension, and understanding. How do you think their past influences the way they interact now? Can you relate to the way some relationships evolve over time, even when they’re complicated?
- Isolation is a huge theme in Tell Me Everything. Which characters do you think feel the loneliest or most disconnected? What makes them feel isolated? Have you ever experienced something similar in your own life, and how does the book’s exploration of isolation resonate with you?
- Strout often leaves so much unsaid, using silence to convey powerful emotions. How does she use this technique in the book, and what do you think it says about the characters and their inner lives? Were there moments where you felt the silence spoke louder than the words?
- Friendship plays a huge role in how the characters connect with one another. How does Strout explore the complexities of friendship, and which friendship in the novel do you find the most compelling?
- Every character in Tell Me Everything seems to be searching for meaning or a legacy. How do the characters try to leave their mark on the world? Do you think they succeed in doing so?
- After reading this book, did it make you think about your own legacy or what you want to leave behind? How do the characters’ journeys make you reflect on your own life choices and the impact you have on others?
- Healing and redemption are major themes throughout the story. Which characters go through the most significant changes, and how do they evolve? How do you think their transformations shape the overall message of the book?
- When Bob first meets Matt, he’s struck by Matt’s complete lack of “guile” and his artistic talent. How does Bob’s relationship with Matt evolve throughout the novel? Do you think Bob’s empathy for Matt goes beyond just helping him with legal troubles? How does their growing friendship impact Bob’s own emotional journey?
- At one point, Bob reflects on how his life has been “torn into pieces” as he navigates the complexities of his relationships with Lucy, Margaret, and his family. What do you think Bob means by this? How do the people in his life contribute to this fragmentation, and how does Bob try to put the pieces back together?
- Bob’s “crush” on Lucy grows over the course of the book, but it’s never fully acted upon. What do you think this dynamic between them reveals about Bob’s emotional state and his desires for connection? Why do you think Strout chose to keep their relationship platonic? What does this say about longing and the complexities of human relationships?
- Diana’s behavior is influenced by her traumatic past, yet she makes some very drastic choices in the present. What do you think Strout is trying to convey about the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma on adult decision-making? How does Diana’s story serve as a cautionary tale about confronting or avoiding one’s past?
- The novel is filled with poignant, sometimes heartbreaking moments of people confronting their pasts or their own flaws. Which character’s transformation or self-realization did you find the most moving or impactful? Why? How do these moments tie into the broader themes of memory, regret, and personal growth in the book?
- Diana’s traumatic past is revealed in pieces throughout the novel, including her father’s abuse and a later assault. How does Strout use these gradual reveals to build Diana’s character? How does her past shape her actions in the present, especially in her relationship with her mother and her ultimate actions towards Gloria?
- Bob Burgess, the town lawyer, is right at the center of things, but his character goes through a lot of change. What do you think of Bob’s journey? How does he evolve as the story unfolds?
- When Lucy and Olive meet, their interactions bring out different sides of each of their personalities. What do you think these conversations tell us about them? If you could sit down with either of them for a heart-to-heart, what would you ask?
- The novel touches on the different ways people experience and understand love. How do you think Tell Me Everything challenges the traditional ideas of love? What kinds of love do you see in the story, and how do they differ?
- A major question in the book is “What does anyone’s life mean?” How do the characters wrestle with this, and what kind of answers do they find, if any? Were there moments in the book that made you reflect on your own sense of purpose?
- Olive often talks about “unrecorded lives.” What does that idea mean to you, and how does it resonate throughout the story? Which characters’ “unrecorded lives” are you most intrigued by, and why?
- At the beginning of the novel, Gloria Beach is referred to as “Bitch Ball” because of her behavior and weight. But as we learn more about her through her journals, we see a much more complex person. How does Strout shift our perception of Gloria throughout the novel? What does this say about the theme of understanding someone’s full story before passing judgment?
- Jim’s confession about their father’s death is a turning point in his relationship with Bob. How does this revelation affect their dynamic? Do you think Bob can ever truly come to terms with the truth, especially after carrying the weight of the blame for so many years? How does this impact the way Bob views himself?
- Margaret, Bob’s wife, goes through a significant transformation after her near-firing and Bob’s confrontation with her. How does Margaret’s character arc, from being distant and preoccupied to more self-aware and connected, affect her relationship with Bob? What do you think this shift says about the theme of connection in the book?
- Olive’s final reflection on “love is love” speaks to the ongoing theme of human connection and intimacy. How does this theme play out in Olive’s relationship with Isabelle and in the relationships of other characters, such as Bob and Lucy, or even Bob and Margaret? What does this statement ultimately mean in the context of the story?
- If you’ve read other books by Elizabeth Strout, what was it like to see characters from her previous novels pop up in Tell Me Everything? Which ones were you most excited to see again, and how did their appearances add to the story?
Q&A about Tell Me Everything with Elizabeth Strout
Q: You talk about atmosphere in your books. Do you consciously create it as you write, or does it develop naturally?
Elizabeth Strout: It’s very interesting because I’m really just working on writing it and making sure the characters stay true to who they really are. Only much later, when I read the whole thing, am I aware of a certain kind of atmosphere that’s emerged. So, no, I don’t consciously create an atmosphere, but I think it naturally develops as I work on the characters.
Q: What was the initial spark for Tell Me Everything? How did the characters come together?
Elizabeth Strout: It started gradually, and then suddenly I realized these characters are all living pretty much in the same town or close to each other. The first thought was, “Let’s get Lucy Barton together with Olive Kitteridge.” They are so different, and yet they’re both living in the same place. Olive has a story to tell Lucy, and from there, everything else unfolded—Bob Burgess, and the rest of the characters came into the story naturally.
Q: There’s a lot of interplay between characters in your book. How does the small-town setting of Crosby, Maine impact the narrative?
Elizabeth Strout: Small towns are always interesting fictionally because the dynamics between characters can show different sides of a person. The way one person sees a character may be completely different from how someone else sees them. It’s a way to explore the question of who we really are—how we relate to others in different circumstances. Crosby provides that microcosm, and through these overlapping relationships, we get to see characters from different perspectives.
Q: You mentioned that you write with the reader in mind. How do you approach writing for an ideal reader?
Elizabeth Strout: I always have an ideal reader in mind, someone who is patient but not overly so, someone who is interested but not intensely so. I try to deliver something that makes that reader feel included, whether it’s helping them feel less alone or recognize something about themselves. I’m always trying to prove that the reader will want to continue with the story, to keep them engaged and connected with the characters.
For full interview with Elizabeth, click here!
Elizabeth Strout Author Biography
Elizabeth Strout is an award-winning author best known for her novels Olive Kitteridge and My Name Is Lucy Barton. Born in Portland, Maine, she grew up in small towns across Maine and New Hampshire, where she developed a love for writing and nature.
From a young age, Strout was captivated by the world around her, spending hours outdoors and documenting her thoughts in notebooks. Her deep connection to the Maine landscape, from the rocky coastline to the wildflowers in the woods, often shines through in her writing.
Strout attended Bates College, graduating with a degree in English, and later earned a law degree from Syracuse University. After a brief stint in Legal Services, she moved to New York City, where she taught English while also writing short stories.
Her first story was published when she was 26, and she began gaining attention for her work in literary magazines and popular publications like Redbook and Seventeen. Today, Strout is regarded for her sharp insights into the human condition, her exploration of loneliness, and her evocative storytelling.
Tell Me Everything Book Club Ideas
So you’ve just finished Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout—congratulations! Now, if you’re looking for ways to make your book club discussion even more captivating, I’ve got you covered with some creative, fun, and meaningful ideas to get everyone talking and thinking. Let’s dive in!
Character Web
Start off your meeting with a fun (and enlightening!) exercise. Grab a big sheet of paper or a whiteboard and create a “character web.” Start by writing down all the main characters—Bob, Lucy, Olive, Matt, etc.—and draw lines to show how they’re connected. Is it a family bond? A long-lasting friendship? A shared traumatic past?
This visual activity will help you and your book club get a better grasp of how Strout ties everyone together, and maybe even reveal some connections you didn’t notice while reading. Plus, it’s a great way to kickstart those deep conversations about relationships and how they shape the story!
Unrecorded Lives Journals
One of the novel’s most thought-provoking concepts is the idea of “unrecorded lives.” The characters each carry these hidden histories, the parts of themselves that don’t get shared with the world. To bring this theme to life in your book club, have everyone pick a character and write a short journal entry from their perspective.
What’s something they’re keeping to themselves? What’s one thing they’ve never said out loud? After reading them aloud, compare your take on each character’s hidden story. It’s such a great way to dig into the emotional layers of Strout’s writing and understand her characters more deeply!
Olive Kitteridge “Grumpy-but-Great” Game
Olive Kitteridge might be 90 in this book, but she’s as sharp and sassy as ever. Inspired by her no-nonsense attitude, you could play a fun game of “Olive Kitteridge Compliments,” where you have to give compliments in the most grumpy, blunt way possible.
For example: “Well, at least you didn’t ruin the cookies completely” or “You’re alright, for someone who never listens.” It’s a playful way to honor Olive’s gruff charm while bonding over the characters’ growth and vulnerabilities. Bonus points if you do it while sipping on a cozy cup of tea or wine!
What Happens Next? Writing Contest!
One of the coolest parts of Strout’s writing is that she leaves us with lots of unanswered questions about the future of her characters. After discussing the novel, have a creative writing contest where each person gets to write a “What happens next?” scenario for one of the characters.
Will Olive finally tell Isabelle how much she means to her? Will Bob and Margaret’s relationship improve? What’s next for Matt and Diana after the events of the novel? Once everyone writes their take, share and vote on the most surprising or poignant continuation. You might just find yourselves debating who had the best vision for the future!
Quotes From Tell Me Everything
The following quotes from the book would each make a great talking point as part of a book club discussion. Be sure to bring any quotes you highlighted along the way as well.
“The story was one that Olive had been reflecting on with more and more frequency, and
she thought—as people often do—that if her story could be told to a writer, maybe it could be
used in a book one day.” (Book 1, Chapter 1, Page 8)
“We might want to take a moment to wonder who this Gloria Beach woman was. But the
full story of Gloria Beach remains shrouded in mystery. There are some ‘facts’ as she
recorded them in a journal—in two notebooks she kept at various points in her life, a journal
that only her son Matthew had access to.”
(Book 2, Chapter 1, Page 102)
“She spoke with great authority and believability, and the girls watched her with terrified
eyes. Very specific detail was given. A young woman’s dress would be described, a striped
dress that had a wrap-around waistband—and the man got the young woman into his car by
saying that her mother had been in an accident and he was going to take her to her mother.
Diana told of the kinds of back roads these women were driven on until they were taken far
into the woods and then forced to get out of the car.”
(Book 1, Chapter 3, Page 34)
“‘I get that.’
‘I know you do.’ And he did. He understood the situation this woman was in. He felt the
sadness of it as though an outgoing tide moved slowly through him.”
(Book 1, Chapter 6, Page 69)
“‘You guys will work that out,’ Bob said, but he thought: I am lying to Jim. I have no idea if
he will work it out with Larry. And I have no idea if he feels alone.”
(Book 1, Chapter 9, Page 94)
“He kept staring at them: They were sort of abstract, the women’s faces not done with
realism, the bodies not done with realism, but they were, to Bob, stunning. He looked carefully
and understood that a variety of brushstrokes had been used, and the colors were subtle yet
astonishing. ‘Where did you learn to do this?’ The room smelled of oil paint and turpentine and
seemed to have a freshness that the rest of the house so distinctly did not.”
(Book 2, Chapter 2, Page 119)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get a Printable Version of the Book Club Guide?
Yes! We have a printable version, just scroll down below.
Is There a Tell Me Everything Audiobook?
Yes, there is an audiobook version of Tell Me Everything.
Narrated by: Kimberly Farr
Released: September 10, 2024
Listening length: 10 hours and 59 minutes
Language: English
Most people like the book and describe it as a beautiful and great read with well-written dialogue. Readers also find the characters lovely and interesting. In addition, they praise the storytelling quality as extraordinary, engaging, and amazing.
Is There a Tell Me Everything Movie?
If you’re wondering whether Tell Me Everything has made its way to the big screen yet, the short answer is: not yet! While Elizabeth Strout’s novels—especially Olive Kitteridge—have been adapted into TV series (hello, Frances McDormand’s unforgettable portrayal of Olive!), Tell Me Everything hasn’t had the movie or TV treatment yet. But if you’re a fan of Strout’s work, don’t lose hope! Her books have such a rich, nuanced quality that they’d translate beautifully into a movie or series. Fingers crossed that one day, we’ll see Bob, Olive, and Lucy come to life on screen. Until then, you’ll have to settle for imagining what it would look like while you turn the pages.
Is Tell Me Everything a Good Book Club Pick?
If you’re on the fence about whether Tell Me Everything is a good choice for your next book club read, I’d say absolutely! Strout’s writing is rich and layered, and the themes of the novel—about connection, empathy, and the impact of the past on the present—make for great discussion. Plus, there’s a compelling mystery that keeps things engaging, so your book club won’t just be talking about the “feels” (though there will be plenty of those)—you’ll also have plenty to dissect about the characters’ choices, the plot twists, and the book’s overall message. Trust me, it’ll spark some amazing conversations.
Are There Other Books by Elizabeth Strout?
Oh yes! If you’ve enjoyed Tell Me Everything, you’re going to want to dive into more of Strout’s books. She has this incredible way of creating small, intimate worlds where every character feels so real. Here are some of her most beloved works:
Olive Kitteridge (2008) – As I mentioned earlier, this is the book that put Strout on the map. It’s a collection of connected short stories centered around Olive Kitteridge, a retired teacher in a small Maine town. It won a Pulitzer Prize, so you know it’s a must-read.
Olive, Again (2019) – This is the follow-up to Olive Kitteridge and gives us more of the sharp-tongued, complicated, and deeply human Olive. If you loved Olive in the first book, you’ll definitely want to see how her story continues.
My Name Is Lucy Barton (2016) – This one centers around Lucy Barton, a character you’ll meet in Tell Me Everything. It’s a quieter, more introspective novel about family, isolation, and healing, told through the lens of Lucy’s reflections while she’s in the hospital.
Anything Is Possible (2018) – This book is set in the same small town as My Name Is Lucy Barton, and it explores the lives of several characters who are connected to Lucy’s past. It’s a beautifully written meditation on forgiveness, memory, and the impact of small-town life.
Books Like Tell Me Everything
Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout
A “poised and moving” (Vogue)novel about a divorced couple stuck together during lockdown—and the love, loss, despair, and hope that animate us even as the world seems to be falling apart.
As a panicked world goes into lockdown, Lucy Barton is uprooted from her life in Manhattan and bundled away to a small town in Maine by her ex-husband and on-again, off-again friend, William. For the next several months, it’s just Lucy, William, and their complex past together in a little house nestled against the moody, swirling sea.
Rich with empathy and emotion, Lucy by the Sea vividly captures the fear and struggles that come with isolation, as well as the hope, peace, and possibilities that those long, quiet days can inspire. At the heart of this story are the deep human connections that unite us even when we’re apart—the pain of a beloved daughter’s suffering, the emptiness that comes from the death of a loved one, the promise of a new friendship, and the comfort of an old, enduring love.
By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
Young playwright Melina Green has just written a new work inspired by the life of her Elizabethan ancestor Emilia Bassano. But seeing it performed is unlikely, in a theater world where the playing field isn’t level for women. As Melina wonders if she dares risk failure again, her best friend takes the decision out of her hands and submits the play to a festival under a male pseudonym.
In 1581, young Emilia Bassano is a ward of English aristocrats. Her lessons on languages, history, and writing have endowed her with a sharp wit and a gift for storytelling, but like most women of her day, she is allowed no voice of her own. Forced to become a mistress to the Lord Chamberlain, who oversees all theatre productions in England, Emilia sees firsthand how the words of playwrights can move an audience. She begins to form a plan to secretly bring a play of her own to the stage—by paying an actor named William Shakespeare to front her work.
Told in intertwining timelines, By Any Other Name, a sweeping tale of ambition, courage, and desire centers two women who are determined to create something beautiful despite the prejudices they face. Should a writer do whatever it takes to see her story live on . . . no matter the cost? This remarkable novel, rooted in primary historical sources, ensures the name Emilia Bassano will no longer be forgotten.
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
When a teenager vanishes from her Adirondack summer camp, two worlds collide
Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found.
As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.
Tell Me Everything Review
If you’re an Elizabeth Strout fan like me, Tell Me Everything will hit you right in the feels. It’s like the final season of a beloved TV show where all your favorite characters come back for one last story, and it feels… bittersweet but so satisfying.
Olive Kitteridge is 90, Bob Burgess and Lucy Barton are in their 60s, and the book is set in post-pandemic Maine. If you’ve followed Strout’s characters through her earlier novels, you’ll definitely feel that nostalgic pull—there’s a sense of closure, but at the same time, a freshness that keeps it engaging.
What I love about Strout’s writing is how she doesn’t shy away from the messiness of modern life. There’s no sugar-coating or unnecessary romanticizing—just real, raw emotions. For those familiar with Strout’s world, it feels like you’re visiting old friends, yet the plot lines and the dialogue can still be surprising. Even though the characters are older, they’re fully alive and still grappling with life’s challenges.
Her style is so distinct, yet it never feels repetitive. It’s tender, honest, and so deeply human. Reading this book gave me that longing feeling for younger days, but also reminded me that there’s still so much life to be lived at any age. It’s a beautiful and thoughtful story, and I absolutely loved every bit of it. If you’ve been a fan of Strout’s work, you’ll find this one just as lovely and fulfilling as her earlier books!
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More Book Club Guides
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Discussion Guide and Book Club Questions for The Women by Kristin Hannah
Book Club Questions and Discussion Guide for Everyone Here Is Lying by Shari Lapena
Book Club Questions for Family Family by Laurie Frankel and Discussion Guide
Discussion Guide and Book Club Questions for Only If You’re Lucky by Stacy Willingham
Book Club Questions for An American Beauty by Shana Abe + Book Club Kit
Book Club Questions for The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
Book Club Questions for Within Arm’s Reach by Ann Napolitano (with Discussion Guide)
The Housemaid: Plot Summary and Ending Explained (+ FAQ)
Happy reading! ❤️
I love to read and I enjoy exploring a range of genres including contemporary and historical fiction, mysteries, thrillers, nonfiction, and memoirs. If you would like me to review your book, feel free to reach out to me!