Book Review: Never Change by Elizabeth Berg
When I first heard about Never Change, I knew I was in for something special. Elizabeth Berg has a way of crafting narratives that resonate deeply, and this novel caught my attention with its exploration of love, loss, and the redemptive power of second chances. As a self-proclaimed bookworm who often dives into the delicate landscapes of women’s fiction, I couldn’t resist the lure of Myra Lipinsky’s story—a middle-aged spinster, who, like many of us, is navigating the complexities of life and longing.
In Never Change, we meet Myra, a 51-year-old visiting nurse whose world revolves around her job and her cherished dog, Frank. Myra’s life has been one of quiet isolation, shaped by childhood loneliness and a long-standing crush on Chip Reardon, the golden boy from her high school days. The narrative picks up when Myra becomes Chip’s nurse, facilitating a poignant, if complicated, reconnection as he battles terminal illness. What follows is a beautifully woven tapestry of emotion, where their roles shift and evolve through the lens of mortality.
One of the strengths of Berg’s writing is her gift for sincerity; her characters are rendered with such depth that they feel like old friends. The themes of loss, vulnerability, and the importance of human connection strike a universal chord. As Myra tends to her patients, each with their heartbreaking stories, she grapples with her own unfulfilled desires and the bittersweet nature of her affection for Chip. This duality was something I found myself reflecting on deeply—how often do we invest ourselves in others’ lives while neglecting our own needs and desires?
Berg’s prose is deceptively simple yet profoundly poignant. There were moments where I found myself laughing out loud or wiping away tears, particularly during an engaging scene in a neighborhood diner where characters share humorous childhood misconceptions. The beauty of Berg’s writing lies in its ability to blend humor with heartache, creating a narrative that’s both uplifting and heart-wrenching.
As I turned the pages, I was struck by Myra’s character evolution—how vulnerability opens doors to unexpected love. It’s in her quiet moments of self-discovery that the book becomes truly impactful. One memorable quote encapsulates this sentiment: "It’s never too late to redefine who you are.” My heart swelled as I watched Myra muster the courage to embrace her longing, despite the looming specter of loss.
Never Change isn’t just a story about facing death; it’s a celebration of life, reminding us that our connections—however fleeting—are what make our existence meaningful. This book would resonate with anyone who has experienced unrequited love, faced personal loss, or yearned for a second chance at happiness. It’s a narrative that beautifully underscores the complexity of love in all its forms, making it a perfect read for fans of women’s fiction, reflective readers, and anyone on a journey of self-discovery.
In conclusion, Never Change touched me in ways I hadn’t anticipated, encouraging me to embrace life, love, and the bittersweet nature of our choices. It’s a delightful reminder that even in the face of despair, hope and a chance at reconnection can bloom. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking to immerse themselves in a story that lingers long after the last page is turned.
You can find Never Change (Must-Read Women’s Fiction) here >>