I saw this on your "Canadian Reads" list and contemplated for a long time whether to add it to my TBR. Ultimately decided against it, because based on what I read about it I had a feeling this would be exactly my reaction, too. Thanks for (semi-) confirming ...

I agree that Hagar got on my nerves at times, but her vulnerability redeems her in the end. That final scene with her son was masterful.

Margaret Laurence was one of my mother's favourite authors. I've been meaning to re-read this for some time (It's been well over 20 years since I read it).

I also had read it that long ago, and I thought it would be slow as a reread, but having had a few loved ones of mine experience life in a residence for the elderly, this book was dead on.

Some of the writing is masterful, don't get me wrong. Hence the same rating as Sunset Song of which parts of it reminded me, too. However, reading was like being stuck in an elevator with someone you can't stand. Could not wait to finish it. And the ending....well, it confirmed her character, but didn't make her more likeable. She just was who she was. Like I said, I can see the appeal and merit (with respect to any -ism you care to pick) but it was not an enjoyable read by any means.

Yeah, I think the town is the connection - tho apparently it's the thinly veiled fictionalised version of her own town. And possible another connection being that the MCs are somewhat eccentric individuals. Of course, not having read any of the other books I can't vouch for that. I also have A Jest of God and The Diviners on my shelf but I am wondering whether they should really find a home with someone else.

Munro's is neat place. The staff were so friendly and knowledgeable. I must have pestered them with a gazillion questions. :)

Sounds like maybe ML's writing is just not a perfect match for you if you recognize the quality of the writing but just don't connect with the voice. I'm not sure you'd enjoy JoG or Diviners more. The link is simply Manawaka, the town, but there is a similar tone to the other works. If you were determined to try another, I would suggest A Bird in the House, but I bet you have plenty of other tempting titles in your stacks that you would enjoy more! (And, I am so jealous that the two of you have been to Munro's. I've had to content myself with mail order!)

Thanks for the recommendations. I have just finished A Jest of God and liked it. I think it was just the characters that I couldn't stand in The Stone Angel.