Book Review: Commonwealth

Ann Patchett is a celebrated author who has written several novels, short stories, and essays over the years. Her latest work, Commonwealth, is no different from her previous successes—it’s an engaging and thought-provoking read. Here’s my take on this refreshing read.

Bad habits were all a matter of perspective, and as long as the present was viewed through the lens of the past, anyone would say he was doing a spectacular job.


Commonwealth tells the story of two families whose lives are forever changed after a chance encounter at a christening party. The six children of these two families grow up together, forming deep bonds as they navigate their relationships and adulthood. The novel examines topics such as family dynamics, love, loyalty, and betrayal while exploring how childhood experiences shape our lives as adults.

Patchett’s writing style is captivating and enthralling. She seamlessly weaves together multiple perspectives to create an immersive experience that pulls readers right into the story. With its detailed descriptions and vivid characters, Commonwealth will leave readers feeling as if they have been part of this family for years.

Themes such as change and loss are explored through the eyes of each character in different ways. As one character learns to cope with his father’s death, another finds solace in new relationships that replace old ones that have faded away. Through this narrative exploration of life’s events, Patchett shows us how difficult yet rewarding it can be to move forward and find something new when all you have known before disappears without warning or explanation.


Ann Patchett’s Commonwealth is an absorbing read that will leave you feeling deeply connected to its characters and their stories of hope, heartache, and resilience. It explores themes such as love, loss, change, friendship, loyalty and betrayal while showing readers how life can be unpredictable yet beautiful at times all at once. Whether you’re a fan of Ann Patchett’s work or not, this book is worth picking up for its thought-provoking exploration into the complicated terrain of human relationships in all their forms—romantic or familial—and how our experiences shape us into who we become as adults. If you’re looking for a refreshing read full of insight about life’s trials and tribulations then Commonwealth is for you!

Leave a comment