20190427_183149.jpgToday I have a review of The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes by Ruth Hogan, publishing on June 11, 2019 via Crooked Lane Books!

My Thoughts:

Look at that lovely cover! We need more turquoise covers, right?! Gorgeous! 

Masha’s life has been shaped by tragedy. She used to be known for her spunk and independence and for over twelve years now, she’s been grieving and has lost herself in the process. 

Her places of comfort are the nearby Victorian cemetery, and the lido, where she swims. 

Two special and quirky women enter Masha’s life and help her start life over on her own terms. First, there’s Kitty Muriel, who has worn all kinds of fun and funky hats (she has a penchant for roller disco these days!). Then, there’s Sally Red Shoes, a “bag lady” with a beautiful singing voice. 

Then, the past re-enters Masha’s life. 

The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes takes us to some darker places- grief and loss, but somehow, with these eccentric characters, Ruth Hogan instills hope and authenticity, so there’s a balance, or reprieve, from the darkness. 

I found The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes to be important, introspective, insightful, and witty. It bravely confronts death and all the feelings that go along with it. I loved the charm and wit of the characters, as well as their intense joy, and isn’t it those moments of joy that keep us going? A beautiful, bold book! 

The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes is a thoughtful meditation on death and the process of returning to life again while walking through grief. It reminded me a touch of Nina George’s The Book of Dreams, which I also adored, in the brave way it approaches death. This book is uniquely its own due to all of Ruth Hogan’s charm, but I hope you will check out both memorable books if this type of story is calling to you. 

I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own. 

About the Book:

Masha is drowning.

Once a spirited, independent woman with a rebellious streak, her life has been forever changed by a tragic event twelve years ago.

Unable to let go of her grief, she finds solace in the silent company of the souls of her local Victorian cemetery and at the town’s lido, where she seeks refuge underwater – safe from the noise and the pain.

But a chance encounter with two extraordinary women – the fabulous and wise Kitty Muriel, a convent girl-turned-magician’s wife-turned-seventy-something-roller-disco-fanatic, and the mysterious Sally Red Shoes, a bag lady with a prodigious voice – opens up a new world of possibilities, and the chance to start living again.

Until the fateful day when the past comes roaring back…

Have you read The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes, or is it on your TBR? Happy Reading! ~ Jennifer THR